C2G 16899 USB to DB25 IEEE-1284 Parallel Printer Adapter Cable - DB-25 Female to USB-A Male - 6 ft (1. 83 m) - Blue
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This adapter cable implements the IEEE-1284 parallel standard through a physical conversion between USB and DB25 interfaces. The cable features a 25-pin DB-25 female connector on one end and a standard 4-pin USB Type A male connector on the other, providing a direct hardware bridge between the two interface types.
The 6-foot (1.83-meter) length offers practical flexibility for positioning computers and printers within typical workspace configurations. The blue color provides visual identification in cable management systems, while the 6.24-ounce weight reflects a balanced construction that resists tangling without excessive bulk.
This section brings together practical product details such as Cable Length, Connector Type on First End, Connector on First End Details, Color Family, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
A strong technical summary explains how the product's interfaces, hardware profile, and operating characteristics work together in real deployment. Buyers often need this context to confirm compatibility with existing devices, expected performance in daily use, and whether installation will be straightforward for IT staff or end users.
Key Product Advantages
This adapter cable extends the usable life of parallel printers by providing a straightforward connection to contemporary computing hardware. It represents a cost-effective alternative to printer replacement when parallel connectivity is the only barrier to continued use.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Legacy Printer Support, Plug-and-Play Operation, Durable Construction, Workspace Flexibility.
For buyers comparing similar models, the strongest advantage is usually the balance between dependable day-to-day operation and a simpler rollout experience. That means less time spent troubleshooting fit, compatibility, or user adoption after installation, which is especially important for shared business environments and repeat purchasing decisions.
Deployment / Use Cases
The C2G 16899 adapter cable serves environments where parallel printers continue to deliver reliable service but connecting computers lack native parallel ports. This includes industrial label printers, receipt printers, legacy laser printers, and specialized printing equipment in manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and office settings.
IT departments deploy these cables to maintain existing printer investments while upgrading computer fleets to modern systems with USB connectivity. The adapter supports both temporary connections for occasional use and permanent installations where parallel printers remain integral to workflow processes.
Office Environment
Connect legacy laser or dot matrix printers to modern workstations without replacing functional printing hardware.
- Maintains existing printer investments
- Simplifies computer upgrades
- Reduces electronic waste
Industrial & Retail
Interface with specialized parallel printers for labeling, receipts, or documentation in environments where equipment longevity is prioritized.
- Supports specialized printing equipment
- Withstands regular use
- Color-coded for easy identification
Physical Profile
The blue cable housing provides both aesthetic coordination and practical identification in multi-cable installations. With a moderate 6-foot length, the cable accommodates typical desk-to-printer distances without excessive slack. The 6.24-ounce weight ensures the cable lies flat without pulling on connectors, maintaining reliable connections over extended periods.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 6.24 oz (176.90 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Weight
- 6.24 oz (176.90 g)
- Length
- 6 ft (1.83 m)
Highlights
- Connects USB computers to DB25 parallel printers
- DB-25 female to USB-A male connector configuration
- 6-foot (1.83-meter) cable length for workspace flexibility
- IEEE-1284 parallel standard compatibility
- Blue color for easy cable identification
- Plug-and-play operation in most operating systems
- Durable construction for reliable performance
- Manufactured by C2G (Legrand Group)
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Legrand Group |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 16899 |
| Brand Name | C2G |
| Product Name | USB to DB25 IEEE-1284 Parallel Printer Adapter Cable |
| Product Type | Data Transfer Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Length | 6 ft (1.83 m) |
| Connector Type on First End | DB-25 Parallel - Female |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x 25-pin DB-25 Parallel - Female |
| Connector Type on Second End | USB Type A - Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x 4-pin USB Type A - Male |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Blue |
| Product Color | Blue |
| Weight (Approximate) | 6.24 oz (176.90 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Country of Origin | China |
FAQ
What devices does this adapter cable connect?
This cable connects computers or devices with standard USB Type A ports to printers or other peripherals with DB-25 parallel ports. It enables modern USB-equipped systems to communicate with legacy parallel printers that use the IEEE-1284 standard.
What is the cable length and why is it important?
The cable measures 6 feet (1.83 meters), providing sufficient reach for typical office or workspace configurations where computers and printers may be separated by desk space or equipment placement. This length offers flexibility without creating excessive cable clutter.
Does this cable require special drivers or software?
Most modern operating systems recognize this adapter cable as a standard USB-to-parallel converter without requiring additional drivers. The plug-and-play functionality allows immediate use in Windows, macOS, and Linux environments that support USB peripheral connections.
What is the difference between DB-25 female and USB-A male connectors?
The DB-25 female connector has 25 pins and connects to parallel printer ports, while the USB-A male connector has 4 pins and connects to standard USB ports on computers. This cable converts between these two interface types, translating USB signals to parallel communication.
Can this cable support high-speed printing?
This cable supports standard parallel printer speeds as defined by the IEEE-1284 specification. While not equivalent to modern USB 3.0 or network printing speeds, it provides sufficient throughput for typical document printing, label generation, and receipt printing applications.
What is the advantage of the blue color?
The blue cable housing provides visual identification in environments with multiple cables, making it easier to distinguish this adapter from power cords, network cables, or other USB cables. This simplifies cable management and troubleshooting in office or industrial settings.
What refresh rate or brightness details are available?
Display-oriented products are best judged through screen, connectivity, and installation specifications. Those facts help buyers confirm visual fit, mounting flexibility, and deployment suitability more clearly than generic summary text.
What input or connectivity options are listed?
Connectivity options include DB-25 Parallel - Female, helping the product integrate into common office or home setups.