Question from newbie

[Frank Droog]

Yes Rolands support serial and parallel.
But if your computer has neither, you can get a usb to serial adapter.
I use one all the time

[Martin Pearson]

Just be aware that not all serial to USB converters are the same so you need to make sure your plotter will work with the type you buy.
What computer will you be using for the plotter software as it will make a difference which device will work the best.
Also check the Roland drivers for the plotter will run with your operating system.

[Lee.Barnfield]

Thanks guys, I downloaded the CX24 manual and it says serial RS232C or a Centronics compatible parallel.

Found a Centronics parallel to USB lead on Amazon for £2

[Martin Pearson]

You would be better off using the serial rather than parallel. Parallel will be much slower.
You also need a converter with an FTDI chipset.

[Lee.Barnfield]

Having some trouble here….

Bought a USB to Parallel lead, and trying to install a driver. Tells me that it can’t install a USB driver. Do I select USB as the port or something else.

[David-Foster-]

You will have trouble, as Martin said you need a USB to Parallel converter FTDI chipset (a little box) not just the lead. You will select the Virtual Parallel port when you get the converter.

And to reiterate what Martin also said, Serial is the best way to go. Are you using a laptop with only USB? If you have a full tower PC I would get a PCI Serial card then you can just use a normal cable.

[Lee.Barnfield]

David, thanks for that.

I bought a USB to parallel lead with the FTDC chipset, and using a laptop with USB only.

[Martin Pearson]

You should have got a driver disk with the converter. Should contain 2 drivers, the one you want is the one to set up a virtual serial port.

If you google FTDI you will find the website which believe explains how to install the drivers & also has drivers for download.
Once you have set up a virtual serial (com port) you can install the plotter software as normal.