can't print using usb to parallel port adapter

[mu_ignore]

A friend bought a laptop without parallel port for printing. He bought a "usb to parallel port adapter" for his epson printer to print for inventories in the warehouse. The problem is he's using a DOS program for his inventories so he's not able to print. What can he do to remedy his situation? (Sorry, this should be in the Hardware section)

[Raymond]

You will need a third party software to route all dos print commands to USB.
Unfortunately all of these software that I could find isn't free.
http://www.dosprint.com/
http://www.dos2usb.com/
http://www.printfil.com/english.htm
http://www.dosprn.com/dos-print.htm
http://www.dsbglobal.com/dosprinter/

[Kees]

You need at least two software drivers, one to allow printing through USB, and a second for the printer (not to be confused with your 'normal' printer driver). I had the same problem with my old (but perfect) HP LaserJet and found a discussion about it on the internet. As it turned out, in my case, I could use an USB/LPT adapter under Windows 7, but not under XP. Much depends on your printer.
Your situation is more complicated because of the DOS. Some years ago I managed to print through USB from a DOS-based application under XP using a program Ghost, Ghostwriter or something like that, but I doubt whether that will work for you.
In short, it will not be easy.


Update: What DOS application is your friend running on a laptop which he has just bought?

[mu_ignore]

Thanks for the replies. The DOS program was specifically made for inventory for materials in the warehouse. It was made from someone outside their company. He told me they don't have an MIS in their company. I found this article that says you need to install Microsoft Loopback Adapter which is a virtual network adapter, share the printer and capture the printer port using 'net use'. I have not told him about it though. I wonder if this will work.

[Raymond]

Use either one of the software I listed, it will work because I've gone through this before.