Need help installing a POS system with printer that has an IDN(?) port

[fablesalt]

I have the POS system I will be using (Point of Success), a few computers, and a few TM-U200 printers. The printers have a connection port I have never seen before, which makes sense as I have never set up a POS system before. What do I use to network these things all together?

I went into this thinking I could just use an ethernet router, until I saw the back of these printers. I've heard from some people that I can get a converter to change from the IDN (which is guess is an rj12?) to a serial port (which I can just attach right to the computer?).

I've searched online and asked around, and really couldn't find any help. Anyone I talk to in the business just wants to sell me another network interface to replace the IDN ones I already have. Of course, these network interfaces cost as much as a new printer so...well, you see where I'm going here.

 

[TobeThor]

The IDN cards are proprietary to Micros POS so they are worth nothing unless you use Micros hardware. Serial, Parallel interface cards can be found for less than $20 each so replace the IDN's and use a standard interface. This isn't a sales forum but if there's a way to let me know w/o violating forum rules that you need serial or parallel interfaces I know we have extra and could provide them to you. If not just google it and you'll find them for less than $20.

 

[fablesalt]

Okay Thor, you have me intrigued. I was planning to plug these suckers in through a lan (I honestly don't know if it would work that way, I was just going to try it). I take it I would be able to plug the printer in directly to the computers then?

The computers I'm using have both ports on them. I'd honestly like the port that would be least challenging in its construction within the entire system.


Thanks!

 

[TobeThor]

The TMU200 series is an older epson model so you may not be able to use IP interfaces (it's hit or miss). Best approach would be to buy the newer style 220's w/IP card. That's if you want to connect via switch vs comm ports. If money rules the decision, I'd get serial or parallel interfaces cause they both work very well with the model TMU200 and connection is not complicated.

 

[DrZogg]

IDN is a serial technology, it cannot work through a LAN. On the job is not the best place to be learning. Cut over to serial DB9-DB25 if your hardware will allow, and cut over to IP if it is an order device (therefore you can run through the LAN)