remote serial printer over VPN, possible? 1

[mradmin]

Hi all,

I need to find alternatives to the current setup: an AIX server (runs our business apps in UniVerse database) in the main location, multiplexed serial ports carried over a leased line to a branch location 90 miles away, the serial ports are for terminals and printers. We also have internet access at both sites, cisco ASA firewalls, and VPN that will support (PC software) terminal sessions over IP (I have just implemented that last part). I'm looking for suggestions for how to have system printers (2 for now) in the remote location. I'm sure someone else has dealt with this mix of current and legacy technology... suggestions?

Thanks in advance,

 

[psi07004]

Have implemented this many time with Universe and AIX. You have several choices.

First, if the printers are not ip based (network connection) you need to use something like an HP JetDirect box or print server, so they can have an ip address. If they have network connections you are on the way. You didn't indicate if you VPN is a site to site, or pc software based. If site to site you can simply created the AIX print queues using the remote ip (assuming you can ping it) and you are set. I suggest you create AIX print queues and then Universe queues that forward to them.

Otherwise it is a little harder. From what you wrote It appears you have a firewall at the remote sites. Simply open the required ports (depends on what method of ip connection the printers have) for traffic to/from (be sure to allow response traffic back from the printer) to the printers and then configure them on AIX. You can google hp jetdirect ports for firewall port info. If using a printer server, it should have the required info with it.

Finally, if for some reason you need to maintain async connections at the remote site, you can use a Digi box with their Realport software to accomplish this over a network connection.

 

[mradmin]

First, thanks for your ideas. My VPN is site to site, so your print server suggestions re. AIX print queues and UniVerse queues gave me enough to get started. The printers are serial (a legacy from 2 systems ago), but ip-based print queues look easy to set up. Thanks again.