StarTech.com Ethernet to Parallel Network Print Server, 10/100Mbps LAN, WebUI, Centronics Ethernet Printer Server Adapter, TAA
Quick take
This Ethernet-to-parallel print server adds wired network printing to legacy printers with a Centronics (36-pin) parallel port. It supports 10/100Mbps LAN speeds and offers WebUI-based configuration, plus multiple printing protocols for broader compatibility. The main caveat is that setup assumes you are comfortable with basic networking and printer driver behavior on your host computers.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Turns a parallel/Centronics printer into a network printer, enabling remote access and shared printing.
- Supports multiple network printing protocols (including IPP, LPR, RAW 9100, SMB, and AppleTalk).
- Compact design that connects directly to the printer’s Centronics port.
- Setup is available via WebUI for macOS/Linux and using Windows utilities for Windows environments.
Cons
- Best results require some basic networking knowledge (IP addressing, browser-based configuration).
- Printer software/driver installation can be sensitive in mixed printer environments.
- Not a fit for users who need direct wireless printing or modern port types other than parallel/Centronics.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed, but there are clear themes. Several reviews describe the device as straightforward and effective for converting old parallel printers into network printers, especially when the printer lacks built-in networking. Others emphasize that successful use tends to depend on having basic networking understanding, and they document practical steps like connecting via Ethernet and accessing the unit through a browser for configuration.
There is also limited but notable evidence of setup friction where installing related software caused issues on a Dell printer setup and prevented printing, even though the print server appeared on the network. Overall, buyer feedback suggests the hardware can work well for its intended purpose, but software and driver workflows may vary by printer model and your Windows setup.
How it works, and what it’s for
This print server is designed to “network-enable” a legacy printer that only has a parallel (Centronics) port. Instead of relying on a single computer to share the printer, you connect the print server to your LAN, then connect the print server to the printer. Once configured, multiple network-connected users can print to the printer at the shared location.
Key features that matter in real installs
Parallel (Centronics) to Ethernet, built for legacy gear
The core requirement is a printer with a Centronics (36-pin) parallel port. If your printer has that port and lacks a built-in network connection, this type of adapter can be a practical way to extend its service life in environments like offices, education, and other shared-workspaces.
Network and protocol support
It supports 10/100Mbps LAN networks and is built around common printing protocols, including IPP, TCP/IP (LPR and RAW 9100), SMB, and AppleTalk. It also lists support for additional networking modes and management protocols such as SNMP v1 and v2.
For buyers, the practical takeaway is that the unit is intended to fit into a wider variety of network printing setups, rather than only one narrow method.
Configuration and management
You can configure the print server using a WebUI from any operating system, and there are Windows-focused installation options for Windows configuration and management. You can typically use the browser interface to adjust IP addressing and related network settings, and to manage aspects like print status and queue, plus perform reset and firmware upgrade workflows.
Pros and cons from a buyer-fit perspective
Who should buy this
- You have a legacy printer with a Centronics (36-pin) parallel port and you want reliable wired network printing.
- You manage shared printing across multiple computers, and you want to avoid depending on one “always-on” host PC.
- Your environment can accommodate a network setup step (IP configuration, browser-based access, and printer driver setup).
- You need broad protocol coverage for different client machines or operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Who should avoid it
- Your printers do not have a Centronics/parallel port, since this device connects directly to that interface.
- You are looking for wireless printing, because this is a wired Ethernet print server solution.
- Your setup is very “appliance-like,” where you want to avoid any networking configuration steps at all.
Setup considerations (and the most common points of friction)
Based on buyer feedback patterns, the biggest variable is how smoothly your network and printer driver configuration lines up. In successful installs, buyers describe an approach where you power the adapter, connect it to Ethernet, access it via a browser using its default or configured address, and then adjust settings like the IP. After that, the remaining work is adding the printer on your client computers using the appropriate protocol and driver.
In environments where software installation or printer driver behavior is sensitive, installation steps may need extra care. If your printer software is tightly integrated with your existing IT process, consider planning time for driver and protocol alignment rather than expecting a purely plug-and-play experience.
Performance and network speed expectations
This unit is rated for 10/100Mbps Ethernet, which is appropriate for typical office and education printing workloads. For deciding whether this is “fast enough,” the practical limiter is usually the printer itself and the printing protocol overhead, rather than the network link speed.
Price and availability
Pricing can vary, and this product has been positioned at a budget-friendly level for a network-enabling adapter compared to replacing legacy printers. For the most current cost and shipping status, check the latest listing.
Alternatives to consider (depending on your priorities)
- If your printer has USB: A USB-to-network print solution or a printer with built-in networking may reduce configuration complexity compared with parallel-specific adapters.
- If you need modern connectivity: Check whether your printer model supports upgrades or external network interfaces that match its port type (rather than converting from parallel).
- If you want the least IT involvement: Look for print servers and installation paths that minimize driver rework on Windows, especially if multiple clients must print reliably from day one.
Verdict
The StarTech.com Ethernet to Parallel Network Print Server is a strong option when you need to give a Centronics (parallel) legacy printer wired network access. Reviews frequently point to solid results for reviving older printers, but the evidence also indicates that success depends on networking fundamentals and careful printer driver/protocol setup. If you have that readiness, it can be a practical, cost-effective way to modernize shared printing without replacing the printer.
FAQ
What printer ports does this network print server support?
It connects directly to a printer’s Centronics (36-pin) parallel port, converting that legacy printer into a network-capable device.
Can I set it up using a web browser on macOS or Linux?
Yes, the print server supports WebUI configuration, which can be accessed from any operating system. Windows also has a Windows-based installation utility.
Does it support common network printing protocols?
Yes. It supports protocols such as IPP, LPR, RAW 9100 (TCP/IP), SMB, and AppleTalk, plus additional networking features like SNMP support.
Is this plug-and-play for windows?
It can be straightforward, but buyer feedback suggests results depend on your networking settings and how printer drivers/software behave in your environment. Plan for some configuration time, especially for printer driver/protocol alignment.
Will it help if my printer is older and lacks built-in networking?
That is the main use case. If your legacy printer has a parallel/Centronics port, this can be a way to add wired network printing so multiple computers can print without sharing through one host PC.
What network speed does it use?
It’s designed for 10/100Mbps Ethernet LAN networks.
Where can I check the current price?
You can see the latest price and availability by visiting the product listing.
Specifications
| Product Title | StarTech.com Ethernet to Parallel Network Print Server, 10/100Mbps LAN, WebUI, Centronics Ethernet Printer Server Adapter, TAA |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Computers & Accessories > Networking Products > Print Servers |
| Brand | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Model Number | PM1115P3 |
| Item Weight | 0.1 Pounds |
| Color | White |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop, Printer |
| Connector Type | Parallel |
| Number of Ports | 2 |
| Power Plug Type | No Plug |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| UPC | 065030897716 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00065030897716 |
| Mfr Part Number | PM1115P3 |
| Built-In Media | 1 Parallel print server, 1 Power adapter, 1 Quick-start guide |
| Warranty Description | 2-Year |
| Item Dimensions | 2.2 x 2.1 x 0.9 inches |
| Package Quantity | 1 |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 2.2 x 2.1 x 0.9 inches |
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