I have two HP plotters, a 430D and a 430E. Had them for years and very happy with them. Also for years I used a Belkin data switch F1U123, with a short cable connecting the PC to the data switch, and both HP cables plug into the switch. Depending on which button I push, the drawing goes to either the D or the E. Two years ago the data switch stopped working, and finally last month I found a replacement on Amazon, cheap I might add, an original in the box. Problem is it doesn't quite work.
If I plug each HP cable directly into the PC I can plot just fine, so the problem probably isn't the cables, plotters, or the PC. If I connect the PC to the data switch, and both HP cables into the switch, then send a drawing, that plotter's ready light will blink for several seconds, go out, and that is it. Some form of signal is getting through, but not much.
Any ideas before I trash the switch and give up.
I wish I had a magic bullet reply.
After buying a new Belkin N150 router a few months ago, I finally gave up on Belkin as it proved to be the quirkiest and most unusable computer product I had bought in a while. The D-Link replacement dropped right into place with no hardware or software issues. And that doesn't help with your problem.
Hopefully some one here will have a good recommendation for a new, more reliable switch for you. It's not rocket science to build an intelligent printer switch.
If you can configure your printers as network printers, you can select the printer you want from the print dialog box if you are using windows. Probably more complicated than just getting a switch that works. Other than that you can try another Belkin switch and keep trying until you get one that works.
Sorry I don't have a better idea.
We had a problem like that many, many years ago. It came down to the cables. As I recall, it had something to do with a "null modem" cable. I can't remember if we needed one or we had one and that was the problem.
Funny, the last time I saw a data switch like that it was a part of the robot's face in that cheetos commercial.
Good luck.
Bruce, I have a Belkin F1B024E Data Switch I haven't used for years. Will this be compatible with your set-up?
Also a 25 pin (male) cable and a 25 pin/18 ? cable.
Give the word and I will send them to you.
Grant
AHA! I don't like all caps but this was an AHA moment. I connected the old switch cable to the new switch box, and suddenly everything works. Thanks for the insight, guys.
