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eForms BOX "Program" Versions

...for printers connected via network or other cables. This box uses the parallel port on the back of the printer, but does NOT require that the printer be parallel port connected.

The "Program" type BOX (known as NetBOX, WorkBOX, or RamBOX) is designed for printers that are not connected directly to a workstation via a parallel cable but which do support FSA RAM (not just FSA FLASH) or RAM as a download target or RAM Resource Saving. Each system is slightly different and so the BOX must be programmed to match the printer. We have taken to calling the FSA programmed boxes "NetBOX" the "download target" programmed boxes "WorkBOX" and the standard Resource Saving boxes "RamBOX" but the hardware is identical and can be reprogrammed at the property for any supported printer.

Please note: For any printers that are connected with a parallel cable to a local workstation, the eForms Smart BOX (marked "pgen" rather than "program") is the best, most flexible, and easiest to use option. The "program" version listed here can support direct parallel cable connection but are primarily for printers which are connected via network, USB or other methods. A summary of differences with advantages and disadvantages is available.

Requirements:

The printer must support  one of the following systems:

  • NetBOX: FSA RAM at device "0:" (not just FSA FLASH) such as the
     HP LaserJet 4100 / 4200 / 4300 / 2300 / 2420 / 2430
     4345 w/J7972G
    and probably the
     4015 w/J7972G
    Some versions of the HP LaserJet 4650, 4250, and 9050 may not support this due to firmware upgrade flash memory being present at device 0:. The LJ 2300 requires at least 48MB of RAM is installed in the printer. This should be the default setup for any 2300d or 2300n printers but the 2300 and 2300l may have only 32MB of RAM. Also check the printer front panel under SYSTEM SETUP, CONFIGURE DEVICE, to ensure the RAM DISK has been turned ON.
  • WorkBOX: RAM target downloads such as the
     IBM IP 1422
    Most IBM and Lexmark laser printers support this system.
  • RamBOX: RAM "Resource Saving" such as the
     HP LaserJet 4250, 4650, 9050, or 2400 series
    or the Tally Genicom Intelleprinter 9035.
    The RamBOX can, in most cases, be used for other printers, however; due to "Resource Saving" problems first identified in the LaserJet 2200 which may cause unreliable operation when print jobs come from a network source, SmartBOX, NetBOX or WorkBOX devices should be used in place of the RamBOX when possible 

The printer must have a "centronics" parallel port connector for the BOX to connect, although the print jobs may come from any source (network, USB, IR, etc...) currently supported by the printer. Print jobs can come from the parallel connection through the NetBOX, but in rare cases, with very large batch print jobs on a slow workstation, there may be problem with the NetBOX re-loading the forms in the middle of the print job; SmartBOXes are recommended for parallel port connected printers. The eForms are loaded from the BOX into the printers memory via the printers parallel port when the printer is powered up, and periodically thereafter, and so are always accessible by the printer. The BOX does NOT function as a "protocol converter" to allow connection from other sources so the printer itself must have the ability to connect to the source of the print jobs.  If the source is a parallel port (e.g. from a PC or network print server such as an external Jet Direct) then that source can be "daisy chained" into the back of the BOX and the BOX will pass print jobs through into the printer. Please take care to verify that the printer has the standard "type B" connector rather than the much smaller "type C" (see: IEEE 1284 Connectors for pictures) If you do have the "type C" connector on the printer, a C to B adapter (rather than an A to C cable) will be required. A list of printers known to use the "type C" connector and sources for adapter cables is available.

Late model HP printers may need an EIO to 1284B adapter card (part number J7972G) which costs about $80 from HP. Please ensure your HP printer is compatible with this card before ordering.

The unit must be near an electrical outlet for the power adapter which is included.

Support for printers which do not meet the requirements for a NetBOX can be provided via the XPS Driver

Installation:

  1. Power off and unplug the printer.
      
  2. Connect the BOX into the printer’s parallel port. If the port is under a cover, you may use the "pigtail" or short extender cable provided with the BOX, but if possible, connect the BOX directly to the printer.
     
  3. If there is already a parallel cable plugged into the printer's parallel port, plug that original cable into the connector on the back of the BOX (with the clips). If there was no parallel cable, just leave the back end of the BOX empty. Please do NOT attempt to plug any other type of cable (e.g. serial, network, usb, etc...) into the back of the BOX.
     
  4. Plug the BOX's AC adapter into an available electrical outlet and connect it to the box. Verify that the light on the BOX is BRIGHTLY lit.
     
  5. Power on the printer.

Updates

To update the NetBOX contact your customer service representative for an update email containing instructions and a link to a program from our web server that will guide you through the update process. You will need to attach a parallel printer cable between the back of the NetBOX and a nearby workstation or laptop while the NetBOX is still connected to the printer. You will also need a working 6VDC 800 (or more) mA positive center AC adapter connected to the box inorder to complete the update.

If you are updating several NetBOXes it may be best to set up a "programming station" and cycle all the NetBOXes through that one location.

If you do not wish to take the time required to update the NetBOX yourself, or are unable to connect the NetBOX between a workstation and the printer, we can program a replacement unit and send it to exchange with your existing NetBOX for $25 plus shipping. Please contact your customer service representative.

Technical details