I have an Apple StyleWriter inkjet printer that I occasionally use to print out reports from a FileMaker Pro 4.1 database. I've used this printer with the serial ports on both my Mac IIci and my PowerBook 3400C and everything works perfectly.

I tried interfacing the StyleWriter to the USB port of my iMac using an iDock hub interface which is supposed to provide serial capability. The FileMaker reports print out all messed up - formatting is wrong, some fields are missing, etc. I then tried using a Keyspan USB/serial adapter and got the same results. I can print other documents, such as Simple text files and everything works OK - only the FileMaker files are messed up. It's almost like the USB adapter is either filtering or changing some of the characters.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'm sure the best advise is to get rid of the StyleWriter but that's not an option at this time. Thanks, John

It might be a driver problem. Check that the hub/converter thingy *is* compatible with the printer. Then check the Apple web site for the latest version of SW software.

I have set up a StyleWriter with a computer running OS 9. You didn't mention the StyleWriter model, but I find the SytleWriter 1400 driver that comes with OS 9 works well with older StyleWriters. You have to do a custom install to get this driver, but it should be on every OS 9 CD-ROM.

Some USB adaptors do not support StyleWriters. I agree with Vaughan, check the Keyspan and iDoc web sites to make sure.

Another alternative is to hook up the StyleWriter via Ethernet. Farallon makes ethernet adaptors specifically for StyleWriters, although if you can afford one you can probably afford a new printer. Again, check to see if it works with your model before buying.

I believe the control panel that is supplied with KeySpan's Twin Serial Adapter has a checkbox for StyleWriter compatiblity. This leads me to believe that operation with a StyleWriter is a special case. Check in the control panel settings for the KeySpan device and see if it gives you any options. If you are using the Twin Adapter, make sure you are using Port 1. There are tech notes at www.keyspan.com.

-bd