How to Print DOSEMU on Dot Matrix
Computers of the 80s and early 90s used the IBM-compatible Disk Operating System, or DOS, which was replaced in the late 1990s with Windows-based graphics. Users wanting to access old DOS programs, databases or games on newer operating systems need to use a DOSEMU application, which emulates the old DOS system. Because DOS doesn't recognize newer printers, you need to install a parallel port PCI card in the computer tower and connect an older dot matrix printer to send print commands via the LPT1 parallel printer port.
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Things You'll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
- Dot matrix printer
- Parallel port PCI card
- Serial cable
Instructions
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1
Disconnect all the cables running to the computer. Turn the desktop computer around so it is facing you. Remove the right side panel by unfastening the screws that hold it in place with a Phillips screwdriver. Slide the panel back towards you to remove it.
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2
Lay the desktop down so you can easily access the motherboard that takes up the larger part of the opposite side of the desktop. Locate the PCI slots toward the lower center-back of the desktop. These slots sit on the motherboard and are about 6 inches long. Note the removable back-plate at on the back panel of the desktop next to an empty PCI slot. Remove this back plate by unscrewing it or by pressing it inward from the outside of the desktop.
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3
Insert the parallel port card with the port facing the empty slot left after removing the back plate. Push firmly along the top edge of the card to get it to insert correctly. Hold the card in place by attaching the retaining screw to the back panel of the tower.
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4
Replace the tower side panel and screws. Reconnect the desktop tower to the power outlet, monitor, keyboard and mouse.
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Turn on the computer and wait for the computer to automatically detect it. Connect the serial cable from the dot matrix printer to the computer. Wait to see if the computer will automatically detect the new printer. On most systems, the drivers are integrated into Windows. Otherwise, install the drivers for the dot matrix printer by placing the CD driver in the CD desktop tray.
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Find the dot matrix printer drivers online at any printer driver website. Download and install the driver for the dot matrix printer you are using.
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Open the DOSEMU window as you normally do. Type the “LPT1” command after any command you type to print it. This tells the computer to send the information to the printer on the parallel port. For example, the command: “DIR > LPT1” will print the listed directory files on the printer.
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Copy multiple files to the printer by typing the following after your command: “COPY /B *.TXT LPT1”
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