68kMLA Classic Interface

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Think this ImageWriter II works?
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-27 13:30:25 This is semi-local to me, the listing says "As far as I know is in working order, lights work as shown in pictures." Has the original box too though definitely seen better days. Whats probably this guy is in working order based on the lights shown? I can ask the seller about carriage movement if someone can remind me of the initialization routine. Thanks!
Posted by: Phipli on 2023-08-27 13:31:26 They're generally pretty reliable. No SMD electrolytics to leak.
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-27 13:40:47 Outstanding! I'm sure would wow students of today, so a very strategic potential acquisition for the Vintage Apple Computer Experience.
Posted by: NJRoadfan on 2023-08-27 14:09:24 On power on, the carriage slowly moves all the way to the right or left (I can't remember) then moves to the center. The ribbon carrier moves up and down after that. If you hold the "Form Feed" button down when powering on, it will run a self test print.
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-27 17:11:29 Great thanks @NJRoadfan !
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-29 04:07:10 Purchased. Seller confirmed the correct carriage movement...for $40 I think it's worth the risk. Thanks guys will let you know how it works after I get it home.
Posted by: Phipli on 2023-08-29 04:21:47 Purchased. Seller confirmed the correct carriage movement...for $40 I think it's worth the risk. Thanks guys will let you know how it works after I get it home. Joooooin Ussssss... BTW, @LaPorta used to have some localtalk cards that fit ImageWriter IIs? That would let you share it on your network. Not sure if he has any still.
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-29 04:33:11 Much like an Apple II chiming startup and initializing its floppies, the sounds of an IW II printing is pure geek music 🙂 So I think I figured out Phipli's bio intro - guy with intriguing ideas that may cost you time, money, and some swear words uttered but lead to hours of enjoyment!
Posted by: LaPorta on 2023-08-29 05:03:51 I may have one or two still, I could look. It is fun having them on a network!
Posted by: s_pupp on 2023-08-29 10:54:05 I’m surprised to hear that they are reliable. In college, the original Imagewriters seemed fine, but at least 15% of ImageWriter II’s were out of action at any given time for a variety of reasons. They were, however, in heavy use for at least 2 hours each per day.
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-31 08:31:16 Thanks guys, Printer works! I will definitely consider the LocalTalk option for when I'm ready to build out my LocalTalk network.
Posted by: Skate323k137 on 2023-08-31 08:41:23 Very nice! I didn't find it too bad getting my own IW II set up especially for single page, its getting a good setup for tractor feed with everything adjusted right to do banners that was the real exercise in patience and precision.
Posted by: ClassicGuyPhilly on 2023-08-31 09:17:47 Oh yes I remember fighting with IW IIs when I was a consultant in my college's computer labs, you are 100% right Skate.
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