StarTech. com ICUSB1284 USB to Parallel Printer Adapter Cable - 6 ft (1. 83 m) - Black - Plug & Play
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This adapter features a USB-A 2.0 male connector on one end and a 36-pin Centronics male connector on the other, providing a direct physical link between USB hosts and parallel peripherals. The cable supports USB 2.0 data transfer rates, ensuring efficient communication with printers and other parallel devices.
Internally, the adapter utilizes the Prolific PL2305 chipset for reliable signal conversion and compatibility. It operates at 5V with a current draw of 0.18A, consuming just 0.9W of power while maintaining stable performance across supported platforms.
Relevant factors for this section include Cable Type, Cable Length, Connector Type on First End, Color Family. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
This adapter provides a straightforward solution for maintaining legacy parallel printer functionality in modern computing environments. Its plug-and-play design reduces installation complexity, while broad operating system support ensures compatibility across diverse IT infrastructures.
Legacy Connectivity Preservation
Enables continued use of parallel printers with computers that lack native parallel ports, extending the lifespan of existing hardware investments.
- 36-pin Centronics connector
- USB-A 2.0 interface
- Direct cable connection
Simplified Power Management
Eliminates the need for separate power adapters by drawing minimal power directly from the USB bus, reducing cable clutter and power requirements.
- 0.9W consumption
- 5V at 0.18A
- USB bus-powered
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Supports multiple operating systems including Windows, Windows Server, Linux, and macOS versions from 10.6 through 13.0, providing flexibility in mixed-environment deployments.
- Windows XP and newer
- Linux 2.6.X and up
- macOS 10.6-13.0
Deployment / Use Cases
This adapter is ideal for businesses maintaining legacy parallel printers in office environments where computer upgrades have eliminated native parallel ports. It enables continued use of reliable parallel printers for document printing, label printing, and other business applications without requiring printer replacement.
IT departments can deploy these adapters across multiple workstations to standardize printer connectivity solutions. The adapter also serves educational institutions, government offices, and manufacturing facilities where specialized parallel printers remain in service for specific applications.
Relevant factors for this section include Cable Type, Cable Length, Connector Type on First End, Color Family. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Office Printer Connectivity
Connect legacy parallel printers to modern computers in business environments for daily document printing needs.
IT Infrastructure Management
Standardize printer connectivity solutions across multiple workstations while maintaining existing parallel printer investments.
Physical Profile
The adapter features a 6-foot (1.83-meter) black cable with durable plastic connectors. Weighing just 3.90 ounces (110.56 grams), it maintains a low profile in office environments while providing sufficient length for flexible placement between computers and printers. The black color blends with most office equipment aesthetics.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 3.90 oz (110.56 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Weight
- 3.90 oz (110.56 g)
- Length
- 6 ft (1.83 m)
What's in the Box
The package includes the complete adapter solution with necessary components for immediate deployment.
Highlights
- USB to Parallel adapter connects 36-pin Centronics printers to USB-A 2.0 ports
- 6-foot (1.83-meter) cable length provides flexible placement options
- Plug-and-play installation requires minimal configuration
- Supports Windows, Windows Server, Linux, and macOS operating systems
- USB bus-powered operation eliminates need for external power adapter
- Black color blends with office equipment aesthetics
- Includes driver CD for installation support
- Backed by 2-year warranty with lifetime technical assistance
- EU RoHS, REACH, and WEEE compliant for environmental responsibility
- Prolific PL2305 chipset ensures reliable signal conversion
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ICUSB1284 |
| Brand Name | StarTech.com |
| Product Name | Parallel Printer Adapter - USB - Parallel - 6 ft |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Each |
| Product Type | Data Transfer Cable |
| Technical Information | |
| Cable Type | Parallel/USB |
| Cable Length | 6 ft (1.83 m) |
| Connector Type on First End | Centronics - Male |
| Connector Gender on First End | Male |
| Connector on First End Details | 1 x 36-pin Centronics - Male |
| Connector Type on Second End | USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Connector Gender on Second End | Male |
| Connector on Second End Details | 1 x 4-pin USB 2.0 Type A - Male |
| Device Supported | Printer,PC,Computer |
| Features | Plug & Play |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Color Family | Black |
| Product Color | Black |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.90 oz (110.56 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | 6 ft USB to Parallel Printer Adapter 1 x Driver CD |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Certification | EU RoHS |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) 2,Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | China |
User Manual
FAQ
What devices does this USB to Parallel adapter support?
This adapter supports parallel printers equipped with 36-pin Centronics connectors, connecting them to computers with USB-A 2.0 ports. It is designed for use with printers, PCs, and computers that require parallel connectivity but lack native parallel ports.
Does this adapter require external power or drivers?
The adapter is USB bus-powered, drawing 0.9W (5V at 0.18A) directly from the USB port without needing an external power adapter. It includes a driver CD for installation support, though many operating systems recognize it through plug-and-play functionality without additional drivers.
What is the cable length and connector configuration?
The cable measures 6 feet (1.83 meters) long with a USB-A 2.0 male connector on one end and a 36-pin Centronics male connector on the other. This configuration provides a direct physical connection between USB hosts and parallel peripherals.
What warranty and support does StarTech.com provide for this adapter?
StarTech.com backs this adapter with a 2-year warranty and includes free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance. This support structure ensures reliable performance and access to technical help for IT professionals deploying the adapter in business environments.
Is this adapter environmentally compliant?
Yes, this adapter meets EU RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards along with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive) compliance requirements. It is manufactured with environmental responsibility in mind.
What connectivity or interface options are available?
Connectivity options include Centronics - Male, helping the product integrate into common office or home setups.
| Qty | Price | Available |
|---|
