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Section 1 - Introduction to adding memory to your printer
You can print more complex documents and download more fonts to your printer if you add
RAM. To do this, you have to open up the printer and insert a SIMM (Single Inline Memory
Module). The printer can hold up to 64 MB of RAM, in two SIMM sockets. There is already at
least one SIMM installed in the printer.
Specifications
You can add SIMMs of any size from 2 MB to 32 MB. SIMMs must be non-parity 72-pin, 70
nanoseconds or faster, non-composite, symmetrical, low-profile, 5-volt, and tin leaded. This kind
of memory is readily available from many sources, or you can order upgrade kits direct from
GCC. Use only EDO (extended data out) or FPM (fast page mode). You cannot use DIMMs,
SDRAM, or other special RAM technologies. Do not use gold plated connectors. SIMMs do not
have to be installed in pairs, nor do you have to add a SIMM of the same size as that already
installed. You can install any capacity SIMM in either socket.
Why would I need to add memory to the printer?
GCC printers ship with enough standard RAM to handle most print jobs at the largest page size
and resolution supported by the printer. Some print jobs, however, may be more complex than
the standard RAM is able to handle and therefore require additional RAM. Jobs with heavy
graphical content and/or many font faces will typically require the most memory.
You will reduce available RAM by setting the printer to Auto Switch between PostScript and PCL
5. Options like TCP/IP, WebAdmin, and NEST use additional RAM; together with Auto Switch,
these utilize approximately 4MB of the available RAM, thereby reducing the RAM freely
available for print jobs..
In addition, you’ll need printer RAM for any fonts you download. These require as much RAM as
the space they occupy on the hard drive of your computer. In general, each font occupies 50 -
100k of RAM.
You will continue to obtain minor performance improvements as you add additional memory up
to a maximum of 64 MB of RAM.
Required tools and safety precautions
You should not need any tools to add memory to your printer. However, you should guard against
static discharges. Your body can easily accumulate a static charge; if you touch a sensitive piece of
circuitry, you can destroy it without realizing.
GCC strongly recommends that you use a grounding wrist strap. You can buy one from any
computer parts outlet. If you do not have a grounding wrist strap, touch the perforated metal
chassis of the printer to discharge any static electric charge your body may have.
