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{{Infobox computer peripheral
{{Infobox computer peripheral
| name        = Apple LaserWriter Plus
| name        = Apple LaserWriter Plus
| image        = [[File:Laserwriter.jpg|250px]]
| image        = [[File:Laserwriter.jpg|260px|frameless]]
| caption      = Apple LaserWriter Plus (1986)
| caption      = The original LaserWriter. The Plus uses the same enclosure and engine and differs only in its I/O board ROMs.
| manufacturer = Apple Computer, Inc.
| manufacturer = Apple Computer, Inc.
| type        = Laser printer
| type        = Laser printer
| release date = March 1986
| release_date = 1986<ref name="chm">Computer History Museum, [https://www.computerhistory.org/revolution/input-output/14/351/1679 "Apple LaserWriter Plus laser printer"], ''Revolution'' online exhibition, object 102625368. Gives date introduced 1986, cost $6,995, 1.5 MB memory, dimensions 11 1/2 x 16 x 18 1/2 in.</ref>
| discontinued = February 1, 1988
| price        = US$6,995<ref name="chm" />
| price        = US$6,798 (1986 retail)
| interface    = AppleTalk (DB-9), RS-232 (DB-25)
| interface    = LocalTalk (RS-422), RS-232 serial
| compatible  = Macintosh 512K, Macintosh Plus, Macintosh XL<ref name="lwom">Apple Computer, ''LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus'' owner's manual, 030-1296-A, 1986, p. vii ("The LaserWriter and the LaserWriter Plus"). Hosted as [[Laserwriter And Laserwriter Plus Manual 030-1296-a 1986]] ([[:File:LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus manual 030-1296-A 1986.pdf|PDF]]).</ref>
| compatible  = Macintosh, Apple II, PC (via RS-232)
| dimensions  = 11.5 in. H x 18.5 in. W x 16.2 in. D (28.2 in. with trays)<ref name="asg" />
| dimensions  = 11.5" H × 18.5" W × 16.2" D
| weight      = 77 lb<ref name="asg" />
| weight      = 77 lbs (35 kg)
| power        = 100-115 V AC 60 Hz (domestic); 220-240 V AC 50 Hz (international)<ref name="asg" />
| power        = 760W maximum, 115V/60Hz
| model        = M0180
}}
}}
<templatestyles src="Template:StyledTable/styles.css" />
The '''Apple LaserWriter Plus''' is the [[Apple LaserWriter]] with a larger ROM set on its I/O board. It was introduced in 1986.<ref name="chm" /> Apple's service guide treats the two printers as one product, with a single tab section, parts list and set of troubleshooting tables. The only specification line that differs is "512K ROM (LaserWriter) and 1 MB ROM (LaserWriter Plus)".<ref name="asg">Apple Computer, ''Apple Service Guide for LaserWriter Printers, Volume I'', January 1992 (072-0631-B), tab 2 (LaserWriter/LaserWriter Plus): parts list pp. 3-4, I/O board identification p. 6, specifications p. 7, test prints p. 9, troubleshooting pp. 10-51, LaserWriter Plus ROM upgrade pp. 52-53. Hosted as [[Apple LaserWriter Printers Volume I]] ([[:File:Apple LaserWriter Printers Volume I.pdf|PDF]]).</ref>


The '''Apple LaserWriter Plus''' was the second model in the LaserWriter series, announced on January 16, 1986 at the Apple World Conference in San Francisco and released in March 1986 at US$6,798. The LaserWriter Plus maintained the same Canon LBP-CX print engine and hardware specifications as the original LaserWriter but doubled the ROM capacity from 512 KB to 1 MB, allowing for 35 built-in PostScript fonts instead of 13. The expanded font library made the LaserWriter Plus the definitive PostScript printer, establishing the 35-font set as an industry standard that remained through PostScript Level 2. Both the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus were discontinued on February 1, 1988, replaced by the more compact LaserWriter II series.
The specifications, safety rules, status lights, test prints, pre-power-on checklist, laser power and image skew adjustments, preventive maintenance schedule and parts list on the [[Apple LaserWriter]] page apply to the Plus unchanged. Apple's exploded view for both printers lists the top cover in two colours, white (810-0608) and platinum (810-0610).<ref name="lwpss">Apple Computer, ''LaserWriter Plus'' Service Source, [[:File:Laserwriter plus.pdf]]. Basics, General Information p. 1: "This manual contains only an exploded view and parts information for the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus." PDF p. 4 is a wiring diagram; PDF p. 6 is the exploded view with part numbers.</ref>


== Technical Specifications ==
== Differences from the LaserWriter ==


=== Physical Specifications ===
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:80%;"
* '''Dimensions:''' 11.5" H × 18.5" W × 16.2" D (292 × 470 × 411 mm)
|+'''LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus compared'''<ref name="asg" />
* '''Weight:''' 77 lbs (35 kg)
! !! LaserWriter !! LaserWriter Plus
* '''Operating temperature:''' 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C)
|-
* '''Humidity:''' 20% to 80% non-condensing
| Marking engine || Canon LBP-CX || Canon LBP-CX
* '''Acoustic noise:''' 50 dBA operating, 40 dBA standby
 
=== Performance ===
* '''Print speed:''' 8 pages per minute
* '''Resolution:''' 300 × 300 dpi
* '''First page out:''' Approximately 30 seconds
* '''Engine life:''' 300,000 pages rated
* '''Duty cycle:''' 3,000 pages per month recommended
 
=== Power Requirements ===
* '''Input voltage:''' 115V AC ±10%
* '''Frequency:''' 60 Hz
* '''Power consumption:''' 760W maximum
* '''Current draw:''' 6.3A maximum
* '''Heat output:''' 2,599.2 BTU per hour
 
== System Architecture ==
 
=== Processor and Memory ===
The LaserWriter Plus used identical processing hardware to the original LaserWriter:
 
'''Central Processing Unit:'''
* '''CPU:''' Motorola MC68000
* '''Clock speed:''' 12 MHz crystal (operating at 11.16 MHz)
* '''Data bus:''' 16-bit
* '''Address bus:''' 24-bit (16 MB addressable)
* '''Wait states:''' 1 wait state on memory access (performance limitation)
 
'''Memory Configuration:'''
* '''ROM:''' 1 MB mask ROM (doubled from original)
* '''RAM:''' 1.5 MB total DRAM
** 512 KB workspace RAM for PostScript interpreter
** 1 MB frame buffer for page rasterization
 
* '''RAM type:''' 150ns DRAM chips
* '''Memory expansion:''' None (fixed configuration)
 
=== Controller Board Design ===
The LaserWriter Plus maintained the streamlined PAL-based architecture:
 
* '''Logic implementation:''' Monolithic Memories medium-scale integration PALs
* '''Address decoding:''' PAL-based memory management
* '''Timing control:''' PAL-generated signals for DRAM refresh and video timing
* '''Bus interface:''' Direct 68000 bus connection to memory and I/O
* '''ROM addressing:''' Extended addressing for 1 MB ROM space
 
=== PostScript Interpreter ===
The LaserWriter Plus featured the same PostScript implementation with expanded font resources:
 
'''PostScript Implementation:'''
* '''Version:''' PostScript Level 1
* '''Licensor:''' Adobe Systems
* '''Language features:''' Complete programming language with stack-based execution
* '''Graphics capabilities:''' Vector graphics, Bézier curves, arbitrary transformations
* '''Font handling:''' Type 1 outline fonts with hinting
* '''Font cache:''' Dynamic allocation in RAM
 
'''Interpreter Performance:'''
* '''Rasterization:''' Real-time interpretation during printing
* '''Complex pages:''' Could require several minutes for full rasterization
* '''Memory management:''' Dynamic allocation for fonts and graphics
 
== Print Engine ==
 
=== Canon LBP-CX Engine ===
The LaserWriter Plus utilized the same Canon LBP-CX laser print engine as the original:
 
'''Engine Specifications:'''
* '''Technology:''' Laser xerography (electrophotographic)
* '''Photosensitive drum:''' Organic photoconductor (OPC)
* '''Laser type:''' Semiconductor laser diode
* '''Developer system:''' Single-component toner
* '''Fusing:''' Heat roller at approximately 180°C
 
'''Print Process:'''
# Drum charging to -600V
# Laser exposure creating latent image
# Toner development using magnetic brush
# Transfer to paper via corona wire
# Thermal fusing of toner to paper
# Drum cleaning and discharge
 
=== Consumables ===
* '''Toner cartridge:''' Apple M0180 or HP 92285A (cross-compatible)
* '''Yield:''' Approximately 3,000 pages at 5% coverage
* '''Drum life:''' Integrated with toner cartridge
* '''Paper tray:''' 250-sheet capacity letter/legal cassette
* '''Manual feed:''' Single-sheet bypass for envelopes/transparencies
 
== ROM Fonts ==
 
The LaserWriter Plus included 35 built-in PostScript Type 1 fonts in its 1 MB ROM, establishing what became the standard PostScript font set:
 
=== Original 13 Fonts (from LaserWriter) ===
 
'''Times''' (4 styles):
* Times-Roman
* Times-Italic
* Times-Bold
* Times-BoldItalic
 
'''Helvetica''' (4 styles):
* Helvetica
* Helvetica-Oblique
* Helvetica-Bold
* Helvetica-BoldOblique
 
'''Courier''' (4 styles):
* Courier
* Courier-Oblique
* Courier-Bold
* Courier-BoldOblique
 
'''Symbol''' (1 style):
* Symbol (mathematical and Greek characters)
 
=== Additional 22 Fonts (New in Plus) ===
 
'''ITC Avant Garde Gothic''' (4 styles):
* AvantGarde-Book
* AvantGarde-BookOblique
* AvantGarde-Demi
* AvantGarde-DemiOblique
 
'''ITC Bookman''' (4 styles):
* Bookman-Light
* Bookman-LightItalic
* Bookman-Demi
* Bookman-DemiItalic
 
'''Helvetica Narrow''' (4 styles):
* Helvetica-Narrow
* Helvetica-Narrow-Oblique
* Helvetica-Narrow-Bold
* Helvetica-Narrow-BoldOblique
 
'''New Century Schoolbook''' (4 styles):
* NewCenturySchlbk-Roman
* NewCenturySchlbk-Italic
* NewCenturySchlbk-Bold
* NewCenturySchlbk-BoldItalic
 
'''Palatino''' (4 styles):
* Palatino-Roman
* Palatino-Italic
* Palatino-Bold
* Palatino-BoldItalic
 
'''ITC Zapf Chancery''' (1 style):
* ZapfChancery-MediumItalic
 
'''ITC Zapf Dingbats''' (1 style):
* ZapfDingbats (ornaments and symbols)
 
These 35 fonts became the de facto standard for PostScript printers and were included in PostScript Level 2 specifications.
 
== Interfaces and Connectivity ==
 
=== LocalTalk Interface ===
Primary connection method using Apple's LocalTalk networking:
 
'''LocalTalk Specifications:'''
* '''Physical layer:''' RS-422 differential signaling
* '''Data rate:''' 230.4 kbps
* '''Topology:''' Bus with daisy-chaining
* '''Maximum nodes:''' 32 devices (practical limit ~16)
* '''Maximum distance:''' 1000 feet (305 m) total bus length
* '''Connector:''' DB-9 female on printer
* '''Protocol:''' AppleTalk protocol stack
 
'''LocalTalk Connector Pinout (DB-9):'''
{| class="wikitable" style="width:50%; text-align:center;"
! Pin !! Signal !! Direction
|-
|-
| 1 || Frame Ground || -
| Processor || 12 MHz 68000 || 12 MHz 68000
|-
|-
| 2 || RxD+ || Input
| RAM || 1.5 MB || 1.5 MB
|-
|-
| 3 || RxD- || Input
| ROM || 512K || 1 MB
|-
|-
| 4 || TxD+ || Output
| Resolution || 300 dpi || 300 dpi
|-
|-
| 5 || TxD- || Output
| Speed || 8 ppm || 8 ppm
|-
|-
| 6-9 || Not connected || -
| I/O board part number || 661-0436 || 661-0437
|}
|}


=== RS-232 Serial Interface ===
Apple's ''LaserWriter Reference'' lists the Plus separately only for ROM (1.0 MB against 0.5 MB) and fonts, and gives the LaserWriter's 68000 clock as 11.16 MHz. It gives power consumption for all its models as 170 W average on standby and 900 W maximum when operating at 115 V.<ref name="lwref">Apple Computer, ''Apple LaserWriter Reference'', Addison-Wesley, 1988, ISBN 0-201-19258-6, Appendix B "LaserWriter Technical Specifications", pp. 147-150. Hosted as [[Apple Laserwriter Reference 0-201-19258-6 1988]].</ref>
Secondary interface for PC compatibility:


'''RS-232 Specifications:'''
The larger ROM holds more built-in fonts. The LaserWriter has four built-in font families: Helvetica, Times Roman, Courier and Symbol. The LaserWriter Plus adds seven: Palatino, ITC Bookman, ITC Avant Garde, New Century Schoolbook, ITC Zapf Chancery, Helvetica Narrow and ITC Zapf Dingbats.<ref name="lwom" /> The owner's manual describes the upgrade from a LaserWriter as the LaserWriter Plus Kit, with the hardware fitted by an Apple dealer and the software installed from the Printer Installation Disk and the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus Fonts Disk.<ref>Apple Computer, ''LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus'' owner's manual, 030-1296-A, 1986, p. 4 ("The LaserWriter Plus Kit").</ref>
* '''Connector:''' DB-25 female
* '''Data rate:''' Up to 19,200 baud (9,600 baud typical)
* '''Data format:''' 8 bits, no parity, 1 stop bit
* '''Flow control:''' XON/XOFF or hardware (RTS/CTS)
* '''Protocol:''' PostScript commands or Diablo 630 emulation


=== Interactive PostScript Mode ===
== ROM layout ==
Accessible via RS-232 for direct printer control:


'''Terminal Connection:'''
The two I/O boards are told apart by their ROM complement in the parts list. Apple's guide also draws both boards side by side for identification.<ref name="asg" />
* '''Settings:''' 19,200 baud, 8-N-1
* '''Access command:''' Type "executive" to enter interactive mode
* '''Capabilities:''' Direct PostScript programming, diagnostics, font management
* '''Error messages:''' Displayed on terminal for debugging


== LaserWriter to LaserWriter Plus Upgrade ==
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:80%;"
 
|+'''I/O board ROMs'''<ref name="asg" />
Apple offered an upgrade kit to convert original LaserWriter printers to LaserWriter Plus specifications:
! Board !! Part number !! ROMs !! ROM part numbers
 
|-
=== Upgrade Kit Contents ===
| LaserWriter I/O PCB || 661-0436 || Eight, in high/low pairs H0/L0 to H3/L3 || 342-0081 to 342-0088
* '''ROM chips:''' Four 256 KB ROM chips to replace original 128 KB chips
|-
* '''Installation manual:''' Detailed service instructions
| LaserWriter Plus I/O PCB || 661-0437 || Sixteen, H0/L0 to H7/L7 || 342-0089 to 342-0104
* '''Font diskettes:''' Screen fonts for Macintosh
|}
* '''Price:''' US$799 (1986)


=== Installation Requirements ===
Both boards list a 16-pin IC socket (511-1603) and a LaserWriter Configuration Block (750-0102).<ref name="asg" />
The upgrade process required:
* Opening the printer case
* Removing the controller board
* Desoldering original ROM chips (if not socketed)
* Installing IC sockets (if required)
* Installing new ROM chips
* Reassembling printer
* Testing with font verification page


=== Upgrade Considerations ===
== ROM upgrade ==
* Required technical expertise or dealer installation
* Some early LaserWriter units had soldered ROMs requiring socket installation
* Risk of damage to expensive printer if improperly performed
* Warranty implications if user-installed


== Paper Handling ==
Apple published a field upgrade from LaserWriter to LaserWriter Plus. There are three I/O board variants with different configuration arrangements, so steps 5 to 7 depend on the board in hand.<ref name="asg" />


=== Input Specifications ===
# Switch off the power, place the printer on the grounded workbench pad and put on a grounding wriststrap.
* '''Standard cassette:''' 250 sheets
# Remove the top cover and the LaserWriter I/O board. Place the board on the grounded pad.
* '''Manual feed:''' Single sheets
# Using an IC extractor, remove all ROMs from rows E and F on the I/O board. There may be four, eight or sixteen ROMs fitted; remove them all.
* '''Paper sizes:''' Letter, Legal, A4, Executive
# If the board has no 16-pin socket at location E-20, fit one: desolder and discard the four jumper wires at the socket location, desolder all 16 holes, fit the socket on the component side and solder all pins.
* '''Paper weight:''' 16-24 lb bond (60-90 g/m²)
# On a 256K/512K I/O board, install the configuration block at the socket labelled "512K".
* '''Media types:''' Plain paper, transparencies, envelopes
# On a 512K/1M I/O board, install the configuration block at the socket labelled "1M".
# On a board with the 512K/1M jumper, install the jumper on the pins marked "512K".
# Install the upgrade ROMs, matching the marking on each chip to its socket location. The notch on each ROM faces the three rows of RAM on the board.
# Refit the I/O board and switch on. The printer should produce a user test print within two to three minutes.
# Read the PostScript ROM revision on the user test print. The upgrade has succeeded if it shows Rev 3.0.
# If no user test print appears, check that the ROMs are seated correctly. If they are, fit known-good ROMs from a LaserWriter Plus Kit, or run the LaserWriter/LaserWriter Plus built-in diagnostics.


=== Output Specifications ===
A configuration block or jumper in the wrong position leaves a printer that produces no user test print, which is the case step 11 covers.
* '''Output tray:''' 250-sheet capacity face-down
* '''Stacking:''' Offset stacking not supported
* '''Duplex:''' Manual duplex only


== Diagnostic Features ==
== Diagnosis ==


=== Self-Test Page ===
The two test prints divide the printer in half:<ref name="asg" />
The LaserWriter Plus printed an enhanced self-test page showing:
* Printer serial number
* ROM version (Plus-specific)
* Installed RAM
* Page count
* Complete font samples (all 35 fonts)
* PostScript version
* Print engine status


=== Status Lights ===
{| class="wikitable styled-table" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
Three LED indicators on the front panel:
|+'''Test prints'''<ref name="asg" />
* '''Ready:''' Solid green when ready to print
! Test print !! How to produce it !! What it tests
* '''Paper:''' Amber when paper low or jam
* '''Service:''' Red for errors requiring service
 
=== Font Verification ===
Special test page showing all 35 built-in fonts with sample text demonstrating each typeface in various sizes.
 
== Common Issues and Maintenance ==
 
=== Preventive Maintenance ===
 
'''Regular Service Intervals:'''
* '''50,000 pages:''' Clean corona wires, check paper path
* '''100,000 pages:''' Replace transfer corona assembly
* '''200,000 pages:''' Replace fuser assembly
* '''300,000 pages:''' Major overhaul recommended
 
'''Cleaning Procedures:'''
* '''Toner vacuum:''' Use only toner-rated vacuum
* '''Corona wires:''' Clean with provided brush monthly
* '''Paper path:''' Wipe with lint-free cloth
* '''Exterior:''' Damp cloth with mild detergent
 
=== Common Failures ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:90%; text-align:center;"
|+'''Typical Failure Modes'''
! Component !! Symptoms !! MTBF !! Repair
|-
|-
| Fuser assembly || Poor toner adhesion, wrinkled pages || 200K pages || Replace unit
| Service test print || Jumper J205-1 to J205-2 on the DC controller PCB || The print engine alone
|-
|-
| Corona wires || Light print, streaking || 100K pages || Clean or replace
| User test print || Produced at every power-on unless suppressed || The I/O board; it also reports the PostScript ROM revision, the operating mode and the page count
|-
| Pickup rollers || Paper feed failures || 100K pages || Clean or replace
|-
| DC controller || No power, intermittent operation || 5-7 years || Board-level repair
|-
| Scanner motor || Horizontal lines, distorted print || 300K pages || Replace motor assembly
|-
| ROM chips || Missing fonts, PostScript errors || 10+ years || Replace ROM chips
|}
|}


=== Power Supply Issues ===
A printer that gives a good service test print but no user test print has a fault on the I/O board or in its ROMs. On an upgraded printer the user test print is also the check that the Plus ROM set is fitted and working (Rev 3.0), and the configuration block position is the first thing to check if it does not appear.<ref name="asg" />
 
The LaserWriter Plus used the same power supply as the original, prone to capacitor failures:
 
'''Common Symptoms:'''
* Intermittent power
* Failure to maintain ready state
* Random resets during printing
* Voltage regulation problems


'''Capacitor Replacement:'''
== Safety ==
* Replace all electrolytic capacitors as preventive maintenance
* Use 105°C rated capacitors for longevity
* Typical service life: 5-7 years


== PostScript Programming ==
The [[Apple LaserWriter#Safety|LaserWriter safety rules]] apply in full. The laser is invisible and sits behind an optical fibre, the fuser needs five minutes switched off before it is touched, the printer has a high-voltage supply, and the I/O board carries ESD-sensitive CMOS parts, which the ROM upgrade above involves handling. Remove jewellery, do not be grounded when working on plugged-in equipment, and handle ROMs by their edges.<ref name="asg" />


=== Font Management ===
== Documentation ==
The LaserWriter Plus's expanded font set allowed more sophisticated typography:
Apple's on-site service guide covers the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus in tab 2:<ref name="asg" />
 
'''Font Selection Example:'''
```
%!PS
/Palatino-Roman findfont
12 scalefont setfont
72 720 moveto
(LaserWriter Plus with 35 fonts) show
showpage
```
 
=== Memory Considerations ===
* '''VM (Virtual Memory):''' 512 KB available (same as original)
* '''Font cache:''' Shared among 35 fonts (vs. 13 in original)
* '''Performance impact:''' Slightly slower font switching with larger ROM
* '''Downloaded fonts:''' Less RAM available due to larger font cache requirements
 
=== Font Substitution ===
The LaserWriter Plus established standard font substitutions:
* Times → Times-Roman
* Helvetica → Helvetica (already included)
* Courier → Courier (already included)
* These mappings became industry standards
 
== Service Information ==
 
=== Service Mode Access ===
Internal DIP switches provided service functions:
* '''SW1:''' Continuous self-test with all fonts
* '''SW2:''' Suppress startup page
* '''SW3:''' Diablo 630 emulation mode
* '''SW4:''' Reserved
 
=== Test Points ===
The DC controller board included test points for:
* +5V DC logic supply
* +24V DC motor supply
* -24V DC bias supply
* High voltage (measure with appropriate probe)
 
=== Adjustment Procedures ===
* '''Print density:''' Potentiometer on DC controller
* '''Registration:''' Mechanical adjustment of laser unit
* '''Fuser temperature:''' Thermistor calibration
 
== Compatibility ==
 
=== Operating System Support ===
* '''System 2.0 or later:''' Full LaserWriter Plus support with new fonts
* '''System 6.x:''' Optimal performance
* '''System 7.x:''' Supported through 7.5.5
* '''Apple II:''' Via AppleWorks with font selection
* '''MS-DOS:''' PostScript drivers with full font access
* '''UNIX:''' lpr with PostScript support
 
=== Application Support ===
Applications with LaserWriter Plus font support:
* Aldus PageMaker 1.2 and later (font menu expansion)
* MacWrite 4.5 and later
* MacDraw 1.9 and later
* Microsoft Word 1.05 for Macintosh
* Adobe Illustrator 88
* Ready,Set,Go! 3.0
* QuarkXPress 1.0
 
== Service Manual ==
<pdf width="800" height="500">File:Apple LaserWriter Printers Volume I.pdf</pdf>
<pdf width="800" height="500">File:Apple LaserWriter Printers Volume I.pdf</pdf>


The complete Apple LaserWriter Plus service manual is available on the [[:Category:Apple Service Source|Apple Service Source]] page.
Other Apple documents for this printer on the wiki:
* [[Laserwriter And Laserwriter Plus Manual 030-1296-a 1986]], the owner's manual for both printers, including set-up, the power-on test print and the built-in font list.<ref name="lwom" />
* [[LaserWriter Plus Service Source]], a six-page Service Source volume with a wiring diagram and the exploded view with part numbers for the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus.<ref name="lwpss" />
* [[Service Support Training Programs LaserWriter Technical Procedures Jan 1985]], Apple's technical procedures for the original LaserWriter. They predate the Plus, but their Basics, Take-Apart, Adjustments and Troubleshooting sections cover the Canon LBP-CX engine that both printers use.<ref name="lwtp85">Apple Computer, ''Apple LaserWriter Printer Technical Procedures'', preliminary version for internal use only, sections stamped rev. Jan 85 and rev. Feb 85. Held in the Service Support Training Programs binder scan, [[:File:Service_Support_Tranning_Programs_Laserwriter_Technical_Procedures_Jan_1985.pdf]].</ref>


== Comparison with Original LaserWriter ==
== See also ==
* [[Apple LaserWriter]]
* [[Apple LaserWriter II NT]]
* [[Apple LaserWriter II SC]]
* [[Apple Personal LaserWriter 300]]


{| class="wikitable" style="width:90%; text-align:center;"
== References ==
|+'''LaserWriter vs. LaserWriter Plus'''
! Feature !! LaserWriter (1985) !! LaserWriter Plus (1986)
|-
| ROM size || 512 KB || 1 MB
|-
| Built-in fonts || 13 || 35
|-
| Launch price || US$6,995 || US$6,798
|-
| Weight || 77 lbs || 77 lbs
|-
| Print engine || Canon LBP-CX || Canon LBP-CX
|-
| Processor || 68000 @ 11.16 MHz || 68000 @ 11.16 MHz
|-
| RAM || 1.5 MB || 1.5 MB
|-
| Resolution || 300 dpi || 300 dpi
|-
| Speed || 8 ppm || 8 ppm
|}


== Related Pages ==
<references />
* [[LaserWriter|Apple LaserWriter]]
* [[Apple Desktop Bus]]
* [[LocalTalk]]


{{Navbox-AppleVintageAccessories}}
{{Navbox-AppleVintageAccessories|state=collapsed}}


[[Category:Apple Vintage Accessories]]
[[Category:Apple Vintage Accessories]]

Latest revision as of 19:27, 1 October 2026

Apple LaserWriter Plus
The original LaserWriter. The Plus uses the same enclosure and engine and differs only in its I/O board ROMs.
Manufacturer Apple Computer, Inc.
Type Laser printer
Release date 1986[1]
Price US$6,995[1]
Interface AppleTalk (DB-9), RS-232 (DB-25)
Compatible Macintosh 512K, Macintosh Plus, Macintosh XL[2]
Dimensions 11.5 in. H x 18.5 in. W x 16.2 in. D (28.2 in. with trays)[3]
Weight 77 lb[3]
Power 100-115 V AC 60 Hz (domestic); 220-240 V AC 50 Hz (international)[3]

The Apple LaserWriter Plus is the Apple LaserWriter with a larger ROM set on its I/O board. It was introduced in 1986.[1] Apple's service guide treats the two printers as one product, with a single tab section, parts list and set of troubleshooting tables. The only specification line that differs is "512K ROM (LaserWriter) and 1 MB ROM (LaserWriter Plus)".[3]

The specifications, safety rules, status lights, test prints, pre-power-on checklist, laser power and image skew adjustments, preventive maintenance schedule and parts list on the Apple LaserWriter page apply to the Plus unchanged. Apple's exploded view for both printers lists the top cover in two colours, white (810-0608) and platinum (810-0610).[4]

Differences from the LaserWriter

[edit | edit source]
LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus compared[3]
LaserWriter LaserWriter Plus
Marking engine Canon LBP-CX Canon LBP-CX
Processor 12 MHz 68000 12 MHz 68000
RAM 1.5 MB 1.5 MB
ROM 512K 1 MB
Resolution 300 dpi 300 dpi
Speed 8 ppm 8 ppm
I/O board part number 661-0436 661-0437

Apple's LaserWriter Reference lists the Plus separately only for ROM (1.0 MB against 0.5 MB) and fonts, and gives the LaserWriter's 68000 clock as 11.16 MHz. It gives power consumption for all its models as 170 W average on standby and 900 W maximum when operating at 115 V.[5]

The larger ROM holds more built-in fonts. The LaserWriter has four built-in font families: Helvetica, Times Roman, Courier and Symbol. The LaserWriter Plus adds seven: Palatino, ITC Bookman, ITC Avant Garde, New Century Schoolbook, ITC Zapf Chancery, Helvetica Narrow and ITC Zapf Dingbats.[2] The owner's manual describes the upgrade from a LaserWriter as the LaserWriter Plus Kit, with the hardware fitted by an Apple dealer and the software installed from the Printer Installation Disk and the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus Fonts Disk.[6]

ROM layout

[edit | edit source]

The two I/O boards are told apart by their ROM complement in the parts list. Apple's guide also draws both boards side by side for identification.[3]

I/O board ROMs[3]
Board Part number ROMs ROM part numbers
LaserWriter I/O PCB 661-0436 Eight, in high/low pairs H0/L0 to H3/L3 342-0081 to 342-0088
LaserWriter Plus I/O PCB 661-0437 Sixteen, H0/L0 to H7/L7 342-0089 to 342-0104

Both boards list a 16-pin IC socket (511-1603) and a LaserWriter Configuration Block (750-0102).[3]

ROM upgrade

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Apple published a field upgrade from LaserWriter to LaserWriter Plus. There are three I/O board variants with different configuration arrangements, so steps 5 to 7 depend on the board in hand.[3]

  1. Switch off the power, place the printer on the grounded workbench pad and put on a grounding wriststrap.
  2. Remove the top cover and the LaserWriter I/O board. Place the board on the grounded pad.
  3. Using an IC extractor, remove all ROMs from rows E and F on the I/O board. There may be four, eight or sixteen ROMs fitted; remove them all.
  4. If the board has no 16-pin socket at location E-20, fit one: desolder and discard the four jumper wires at the socket location, desolder all 16 holes, fit the socket on the component side and solder all pins.
  5. On a 256K/512K I/O board, install the configuration block at the socket labelled "512K".
  6. On a 512K/1M I/O board, install the configuration block at the socket labelled "1M".
  7. On a board with the 512K/1M jumper, install the jumper on the pins marked "512K".
  8. Install the upgrade ROMs, matching the marking on each chip to its socket location. The notch on each ROM faces the three rows of RAM on the board.
  9. Refit the I/O board and switch on. The printer should produce a user test print within two to three minutes.
  10. Read the PostScript ROM revision on the user test print. The upgrade has succeeded if it shows Rev 3.0.
  11. If no user test print appears, check that the ROMs are seated correctly. If they are, fit known-good ROMs from a LaserWriter Plus Kit, or run the LaserWriter/LaserWriter Plus built-in diagnostics.

A configuration block or jumper in the wrong position leaves a printer that produces no user test print, which is the case step 11 covers.

Diagnosis

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The two test prints divide the printer in half:[3]

Test prints[3]
Test print How to produce it What it tests
Service test print Jumper J205-1 to J205-2 on the DC controller PCB The print engine alone
User test print Produced at every power-on unless suppressed The I/O board; it also reports the PostScript ROM revision, the operating mode and the page count

A printer that gives a good service test print but no user test print has a fault on the I/O board or in its ROMs. On an upgraded printer the user test print is also the check that the Plus ROM set is fitted and working (Rev 3.0), and the configuration block position is the first thing to check if it does not appear.[3]

Safety

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The LaserWriter safety rules apply in full. The laser is invisible and sits behind an optical fibre, the fuser needs five minutes switched off before it is touched, the printer has a high-voltage supply, and the I/O board carries ESD-sensitive CMOS parts, which the ROM upgrade above involves handling. Remove jewellery, do not be grounded when working on plugged-in equipment, and handle ROMs by their edges.[3]

Documentation

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Apple's on-site service guide covers the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus in tab 2:[3]

Other Apple documents for this printer on the wiki:

See also

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References

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  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Computer History Museum, "Apple LaserWriter Plus laser printer", Revolution online exhibition, object 102625368. Gives date introduced 1986, cost $6,995, 1.5 MB memory, dimensions 11 1/2 x 16 x 18 1/2 in.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Apple Computer, LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus owner's manual, 030-1296-A, 1986, p. vii ("The LaserWriter and the LaserWriter Plus"). Hosted as Laserwriter And Laserwriter Plus Manual 030-1296-a 1986 (PDF).
  3. ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 Apple Computer, Apple Service Guide for LaserWriter Printers, Volume I, January 1992 (072-0631-B), tab 2 (LaserWriter/LaserWriter Plus): parts list pp. 3-4, I/O board identification p. 6, specifications p. 7, test prints p. 9, troubleshooting pp. 10-51, LaserWriter Plus ROM upgrade pp. 52-53. Hosted as Apple LaserWriter Printers Volume I (PDF).
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Apple Computer, LaserWriter Plus Service Source, File:Laserwriter plus.pdf. Basics, General Information p. 1: "This manual contains only an exploded view and parts information for the LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus." PDF p. 4 is a wiring diagram; PDF p. 6 is the exploded view with part numbers.
  5. ↑ Apple Computer, Apple LaserWriter Reference, Addison-Wesley, 1988, ISBN 0-201-19258-6, Appendix B "LaserWriter Technical Specifications", pp. 147-150. Hosted as Apple Laserwriter Reference 0-201-19258-6 1988.
  6. ↑ Apple Computer, LaserWriter and LaserWriter Plus owner's manual, 030-1296-A, 1986, p. 4 ("The LaserWriter Plus Kit").
  7. ↑ Apple Computer, Apple LaserWriter Printer Technical Procedures, preliminary version for internal use only, sections stamped rev. Jan 85 and rev. Feb 85. Held in the Service Support Training Programs binder scan, File:Service_Support_Tranning_Programs_Laserwriter_Technical_Procedures_Jan_1985.pdf.


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