Issue:

 

General troubleshooting guide for the ACTiSYS IR100MU USB Printer Pod.

 

Resolution:

 

Printer Compatibility:

 

Information from ACTiSYS support:

 

1)     A printer will not be compatible with the USB Printer Pod if the specifications indicate “Host-based” printing.

 

2)     The USB Printer Pod is likely to be compatible if the printer supports PCL or internal fonts.

 

3)      If the printer has built-in memory, and multiple interfaces to connect (parallel, USB, etc.) then it is more likely to be compatible.

 

4)     For a list of printers ACTiSYS has evaluated (as of 3/3/07), click HERE.

 

5)     For additional printer compatibility questions, please contact ACTiSYS at irda-support@actisys.com. 

 

Connectivity:

 

1)     Verify that the USB-RJ45 conversion cable is connected tightly to the Pod, and a USB cable is connected from the conversion cable to the printer.

 

2)     Verify the USB Printer Pod is receiving power from either the A/C adapter or 4 AAA batteries.

 

3)     The AlphaSmart 2000, AlphaSmart 3000, and NEO will use the <print> key, not the <send> key, for infrared printing.  Verify the correct key is being used.

 

4)     For the Dana, select the Print Setup application and check that the correct printer model is selected as default.  Also tap on Edit and make sure the IrDA port is chosen under Communications.

 

5)     Verify that the IR lens of the AlphaSmart 2000, AlphaSmart 3000, Dana, or NEO is pointed towards the Infrared Pod, and within a distance of 3 feet or less.

 

6)     From internal testing, the USB Printer Pod performed most reliably when it was receiving power from the A/C adapter.

 

7)     When using AAA batteries with their USB Printer Pod, the AlphaSmart 2000, AlphaSmart 3000, Dana, or NEO may need to send several ‘Print’ commands to the Pod for the Power light to go on and allow the Pod to receive data.

 

8)     If the Power light is already on, the Pod should only require one ‘Print’ command from the AlphaSmart 2000, AlphaSmart 3000, Dana or NEO.

 

9)     If the printer utilizes a parallel printer cable connection between the printer and the computer, infrared printing functionality through the USB Printer Pod may be inconsistent. 

 

a.      If infrared printing is unsuccessful, remove the parallel printer cable temporarily and see if the Pod becomes responsive.

 

b.      Once printing has been completed you can reconnect the parallel printer cable. 

 

10) In some cases, the printer needs to be power cycled before becoming responsive with the USB Printer Pod.