When you click the Configure button in Server Administration, the first tab displayed is the Connection tab. This tab plays a critical role in setting up and managing your printing devices:
The upper part contains general Information about the print server (the printer), as well as its model and manufacturer.
While in the lower part, you can select the type of Connection and, depending on that, several additional fields will appear.
Parallel
The parallel type of connection involves the direct transfer of data using a parallel port interface. This connection enables simultaneous transmission of multiple data bits, ensuring efficient communication for high-speed printing tasks. Typically, it is used in legacy systems or specific industrial environments where parallel interfaces are still supported.
When selecting this type of connection, a Device field appears to define the specific parallel port to be used. By default, this field is set to "Auto," allowing the system to automatically select the appropriate port. However, this setting can be overridden to specify a particular port if required.
FTP
The FTP type of connection enables the transfer of data between CalderaRIP and a printer over a network using the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). This method is commonly used for flexible, remote communication with devices.
When selecting this connection type, the following options are available:
- Host/IP Address: To specify the target printer's location
- Timeout (S): To define the connection duration in seconds before it times out
- User Name and Password: For authentication
- Port Number: To specify the FTP service port
- File or Device: To indicate the destination for the transferred data
LP
The LP type of connection is designed for large-format printers equipped with controllers, enabling a direct connection from the software to the printer. This method is commonly used, for example, with several HP printer models.
When selecting this connection type, multiple configuration fields appear. For detailed information on these settings, please refer to the dedicated article.
SNMP
Starting with CalderaRIP V17.1, users of recent Epson printers that support SNMP can specify the SNMP version (v1, v2, or v3) for each print server in the Connection tab, either manually or via the Auto-detection feature (which identifies the SNMP version in use).
To verify if your printer supports SNMP, consult the full list in our changelog.
Warning
The SNMP selection does not influence printer detection. Detection occurs before printer server setup, using methods such as USB detection, model name matching, and IP configuration.
Setting a device to use SNMP v3, for instance, will prevent access using SNMP v1 (and vice versa).
Shell
The shell type of connection allows CalderaRIP to communicate with a printer by executing commands directly in the system shell. This method provides flexibility for advanced configurations and custom workflows.
A Command field appears when selecting this connection type, enabling users to define the shell command to execute. For example, a command like lp -c -dprinter %s can be entered, where %s serves as a placeholder for the print job file.
USB
The USB type of connection facilitates direct communication between the RIP software and a printer via a USB interface. This method is commonly used for local, high-speed connections to modern printing devices. Several Mimaki models use the USB connection.
When selecting this connection type, a Device field appears, allowing users to specify the USB device path or identifier manually.
File
The file type of connection allows CalderaRIP to output print data to a file instead of directly to a printer. The file connection type is generally used for large format printers, like flatbed printers, with its own computer controller.
When selecting this connection type, a message prompts the user to open the Files tab for configuring file-specific options.
RawIP
The RawIP type of connection enables direct communication between the software and a printer using an IP address and port number. This method is ideal for straightforward, unformatted data transmission over a network.
When selecting this connection type, two editable fields appear:
- IP Address: To specify the printer's network location
- Port: To define the communication port
Auto
The Auto type of connection allows the software to automatically detect and establish communication with the printer without requiring additional configuration.
When selecting this connection type, no additional fields or settings appear, as the system handles the connection process automatically.
Create a custom driver
It is also possible to export a custom driver: