Can the printer be connected to a Mac using a 10BaseT Ethernet Crossover Cable?
Answer
Yes, in most cases. The 10BaseT Crossover Cable provides a direct connection between the Mac and the printer without the need for any intermediate ethernet hardware (hubs, etc.). In most cases, an ethernet-ready Mac can be connected to an ethernet-equipped GCC printer in this way without any problems. In order to assure that communications are made reliably between devices when using a Crossover cable, the printer should always be turned on before the Mac. Otherwise, the Mac will not recognize the presence of an ethernet network on startup and may default to another connection.
Some G3 models equipped with auto-sensing 10BaseT/100BaseT ethernet ports may also experience problems with the printer, which only works over a 10BaseT connection. In this case, switching to standard ethernet cabling with a small 10BaseT hub between the devices should eliminate the problem.
Please note: In all cases, using standard ethernet cabling with a hub would be the preferable communication method. A Crossover cable simply provides another option for users with one Mac and one printer who do not wish to go to the expense of purchasing additional ethernet hardware.
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