Abstract: Bidirectional communications between a host computer and a printer connected to the host, either locally or by way of a network, are used to provide a user of the host with access to a substantially real-time, visual and functional replica of the operator panel of the printer. The user may view the replica to access all data available through the printer operator panel. Using a mouse or other input device, the user of the host computer can also effectively actuate any pushbuttons or other operator panel control devices depicted as part of the replica.

Abstract: A computer and printer system in which communication between the computer and printer can be carried out in either a bidirectional mode or a unidirectional mode. As disclosed, the computer operates in a single-threaded multi-tasking environment in which a printer control utility application runs to facilitate bidirectional communication with an attached printer. The application program maintains the computer parallel port in a bidirectional communication and printing mode, but is capable of taking the parallel port out of this mode in order to perform unidirectional printing, either from another application operating in the multi-tasking environment or from a DOS session running in the environment. The printer control utility prevents the mixing of unidirectional and bidirectional print jobs through the parallel port.