RetroTechCollection

Apple LaserWriter II NT

The Apple LaserWriter IINT was a midrange laser printer in the LaserWriter II series, released in January 1988 at US$4,599. The IINT positioned between the budget IISC and high-end IINTX models, offering full PostScript Level 1 support and LocalTalk networking. The printer featured a Motorola 68000 processor running at 11.5 MHz with 2 MB of fixed RAM and 1 MB ROM containing 35 built-in fonts. Using the Canon LBP-SX print engine shared across the LaserWriter II line, the IINT delivered 300 dpi resolution at 8 pages per minute. Performance improvements over earlier models came from elimination of memory wait states, providing faster PostScript rasterization. The IINT was discontinued in October 1991, replaced by the LaserWriter IIf.

Apple LaserWriter IINT
Apple LaserWriter IINT (1988)
Manufacturer Apple Computer, Inc.
Type Laser printer
Discontinued October 1, 1991
Price US$4,599 (1988 retail)
Interface LocalTalk, RS-232/RS-422 serial, ADB
Compatible Macintosh, Apple II, PC (via RS-232)
Dimensions 8.7" H × 20.2" W × 18.7" D
Weight 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
Model M6000
Power 900W maximum, 90-126V/50-60Hz

Technical Specifications

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Physical Specifications

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  • Dimensions: 8.7" H × 20.2" W × 18.7" D (221 × 513 × 475 mm)
  • Weight: 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
  • Operating temperature: 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C)
  • Humidity: 20% to 80% non-condensing
  • Acoustic noise: 48 dBA operating

Performance

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  • 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

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  • Input voltage: 90-126V AC (auto-ranging)
  • Frequency: 50-60 Hz
  • Power consumption: 900W maximum
  • Current draw: 7.5A maximum
  • Heat output: 3,078 BTU per hour

System Architecture

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Processor and Memory

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The LaserWriter IINT used an optimized 68000 configuration:

Central Processing Unit:

  • CPU: Motorola MC68000
  • Clock speed: 12 MHz crystal (operating at 11.5 MHz)
  • Data bus: 16-bit
  • Address bus: 24-bit (16 MB addressable)
  • Wait states: None (improved from LaserWriter Plus)

Memory Configuration:

  • ROM: 1 MB mask ROM
  • RAM: 2 MB total (fixed, soldered to board)
    • PostScript workspace and font cache
    • Frame buffer for page rasterization
  • RAM type: Fast DRAM (no wait states)
  • Memory expansion: None possible
  • Performance: Faster rasterization than LaserWriter Plus

Controller Board Design

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The IINT controller featured improved architecture:

  • PostScript interpreter: Level 1 implementation
  • Font management: 35 fonts in ROM
  • Graphics processing: Vector and bitmap support
  • Interface logic: PAL-based design
  • Memory controller: Zero wait-state access

PostScript Implementation

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PostScript Specifications:

  • Version: PostScript Level 1
  • Licensor: Adobe Systems
  • Language features: Complete programming language
  • Graphics: Vector graphics, Bézier curves, transformations
  • Font handling: Type 1 and Type 3 support
  • Emulation: Diablo 630 mode available

Performance Improvements:

  • Eliminated wait states from LaserWriter Plus
  • Faster font cache management
  • Improved complex page handling
  • Reduced processing time for graphics
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Canon LBP-SX Engine

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The IINT used the improved Canon LBP-SX engine:

Engine Specifications:

  • Technology: Laser xerography (electrophotographic)
  • Photosensitive drum: Organic photoconductor (OPC)
  • Laser type: Semiconductor laser diode
  • Developer system: Single-component toner
  • Fusing: Heat roller system
  • Paper path: Straight-through design

Advantages over LBP-CX:

  • 32% weight reduction
  • Improved reliability
  • Quieter operation
  • Better paper handling
  • Longer component life

Consumables

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  • Toner cartridge: Apple M6002 or HP 92295A
  • Yield: Approximately 4,000 pages at 5% coverage
  • Drum life: Integrated with toner cartridge
  • Paper tray: 250-sheet capacity letter/legal cassette
  • Manual feed: Single-sheet bypass for special media

ROM Fonts

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The LaserWriter IINT included 35 built-in PostScript Type 1 fonts (same as LaserWriter Plus):

Core Font Families

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Times (4 styles):

  • Times-Roman
  • Times-Italic
  • Times-Bold
  • Times-BoldItalic

Helvetica (8 styles):

  • Helvetica
  • Helvetica-Oblique
  • Helvetica-Bold
  • Helvetica-BoldOblique
  • Helvetica-Narrow
  • Helvetica-Narrow-Oblique
  • Helvetica-Narrow-Bold
  • Helvetica-Narrow-BoldOblique

Courier (4 styles):

  • Courier
  • Courier-Oblique
  • Courier-Bold
  • Courier-BoldOblique

Display Fonts

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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

New Century Schoolbook (4 styles):

  • NewCenturySchlbk-Roman
  • NewCenturySchlbk-Italic
  • NewCenturySchlbk-Bold
  • NewCenturySchlbk-BoldItalic

Palatino (4 styles):

  • Palatino-Roman
  • Palatino-Italic
  • Palatino-Bold
  • Palatino-BoldItalic

Specialty Fonts

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  • Symbol: Mathematical and Greek characters
  • ZapfChancery-MediumItalic: Decorative script
  • ZapfDingbats: Ornaments and symbols

Interfaces

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LocalTalk Interface

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Primary networking interface for AppleTalk:

LocalTalk Specifications:

  • Physical layer: RS-422 differential signaling
  • Data rate: 230.4 kbps
  • Topology: Bus with daisy-chaining
  • Maximum nodes: 32 devices theoretical (16 practical)
  • Protocol: AppleTalk protocol stack
  • Connector: Mini-DIN-8

LocalTalk Features:

  • Automatic node addressing
  • Collision detection and avoidance
  • Network printer sharing
  • Compatible with PhoneNET adapters

Serial Interfaces

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The IINT provided dual serial connectivity:

RS-232 Interface:

  • Connector: DB-25 female
  • Data rate: Up to 19,200 baud
  • Data format: 8 bits, no parity, 1 stop bit
  • Flow control: XON/XOFF or hardware (RTS/CTS)
  • Usage: PC connectivity, terminal access

RS-422 Interface:

  • Connector: Mini-DIN-8 (shared with LocalTalk)
  • Data rate: Up to 57,600 baud
  • Protocol: AppleTalk or serial
  • Cable length: Up to 1200 feet

Switch-Selectable Modes:

  • LocalTalk (default)
  • RS-232 serial
  • RS-422 serial
  • Diablo 630 emulation

ADB Port

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Like the IISC, the IINT included an unused ADB port:

  • Connector: 4-pin mini-DIN
  • Purpose: Reserved for future expansion
  • Implementation: Non-functional
  • Removed: Eliminated in IIf and IIg models

Interactive PostScript

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Accessible via RS-232 for direct control:

Terminal Access:

  • Connect terminal to RS-232 port
  • Settings: 19,200 baud, 8-N-1
  • Type "executive" to enter interactive mode
  • Direct PostScript programming possible
  • Diagnostic information available

Paper Handling

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Input Specifications

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  • Standard cassette: 250 sheets
  • Manual feed: Single sheets
  • Paper sizes: Letter, Legal, A4, Executive, B5
  • Paper weight: 16-28 lb bond (60-105 g/m²)
  • Media types: Plain paper, transparencies, envelopes, labels

Output Specifications

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  • Output tray: 250-sheet capacity face-down
  • Page order: First page on bottom
  • Duplex: Manual duplex only
  • Maximum monthly volume: 3,000 pages

Diagnostic Features

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Self-Test Page

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The IINT printed a comprehensive test page showing:

  • Printer model and serial number
  • ROM version
  • Installed RAM (2 MB)
  • Page count
  • Font samples (all 35 fonts)
  • PostScript version
  • Configuration settings

Status Indicators

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Front panel LED indicators:

  • Ready (green): Solid when ready
  • Data (green): Flashing during data reception
  • Paper (amber): Paper out or jam
  • Service (red): Service required

Service Button

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DC controller board service button:

  • Single press: Print test page
  • Hold during power-on: Continuous test mode

Common Issues and Maintenance

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Known Problems

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Common IINT Failures
Component Symptoms Cause Repair
DC controller No power, random resets Capacitor failure Recap board
Logic board PostScript errors RAM failure Replace RAM (requires desoldering)
Power supply Voltage instability Aged capacitors Replace all electrolytics
Fuser assembly Poor adhesion, wrinkled pages Worn roller Replace fuser unit
Corona wires Light print, streaking Contamination Clean or replace
Paper feed Multiple feeds, jams Worn rollers Clean/replace rollers

Capacitor Issues

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The IINT logic board was prone to capacitor failure:

  • Surface-mount capacitors leak over time
  • Causes intermittent operation or failure
  • All capacitors should be replaced preventively
  • Use 105°C rated replacements

Preventive Maintenance

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Service Intervals:

  • Monthly: Clean corona wires with brush
  • 50,000 pages: General cleaning and inspection
  • 100,000 pages: Replace transfer corona assembly
  • 200,000 pages: Replace fuser assembly
  • 300,000 pages: Major overhaul recommended

Regular Cleaning:

  • Toner vacuum with appropriate filter
  • Paper path cleaning with lint-free cloth
  • Corona wire cleaning with supplied brush
  • Exterior wipe with damp cloth

Memory Issues

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The 2 MB fixed RAM configuration limitations:

  • Cannot be expanded
  • Insufficient for very complex documents
  • May require document simplification
  • Font downloading limited by available memory

Driver Software

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Macintosh Support

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  • System 6.0.3: Minimum requirement
  • System 7.0-7.5.5: Full support
  • LaserWriter driver: Version 5.2 or later
  • Chooser extension: Standard AppleTalk

PC Support

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  • MS-DOS: PostScript drivers available
  • Windows 3.x: PostScript driver support
  • OS/2: Native PostScript support
  • Connection: RS-232 serial cable

Printer Languages

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  • PostScript Level 1: Primary language
  • Diablo 630: Emulation mode for compatibility
  • HP LaserJet: Not supported (unlike IINTX)

Service Information

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DIP Switch Settings

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Internal DIP switches for configuration:

  • SW1-2: Interface selection (LocalTalk/Serial)
  • SW3: Diablo 630 emulation
  • SW4: Reserved
  • SW5-8: Diagnostic modes

Test Points

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DC controller board test points:

  • +5V DC logic supply
  • +24V DC motor supply
  • -12V DC bias supply
  • High voltage (special probe required)

Voltage Adjustments

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  • Print density: Potentiometer on DC controller
  • Registration: Mechanical laser alignment
  • No user-adjustable voltages

Upgrade Options

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Controller Board Upgrades

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The IINT could be upgraded to:

  • IIf board: PostScript Level 2, SCSI support
  • IIg board: PostScript Level 2, Ethernet

Upgrade Process:

  1. Remove IINT controller board
  2. Install replacement board
  3. Update printer drivers
  4. Configure new features

Comparison with Downgrade

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The IINT could replace IISC controller for PostScript:

  • Adds PostScript Level 1
  • Adds LocalTalk networking
  • Adds 35 built-in fonts
  • Increases processor speed

Comparison with LaserWriter II Series

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LaserWriter II Series Specifications
Feature IISC IINT IINTX IIf IIg
Processor 68000 @ 7.45 MHz 68000 @ 11.5 MHz 68020 @ 16.67 MHz 68030 @ 25 MHz 68030 @ 25 MHz
RAM 1 MB fixed 2 MB fixed 2-12 MB 2-32 MB 5-32 MB
PostScript No Level 1 Level 1 Level 2 Level 2
Fonts in ROM 0 35 35 35 35
LocalTalk No Yes Yes Yes Yes
SCSI Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Ethernet No No No No Yes
HP PCL No No Yes Yes Yes
Price (1988) $2,999 $4,599 $5,999 - -
Price (1991) - - - $3,599 $4,599

Compatibility

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System Requirements

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Macintosh:

  • System 6.0.3 or later
  • LaserWriter driver 5.2 or later
  • LocalTalk or serial connection

Apple II:

  • Apple IIgs with AppleTalk card
  • Apple IIe with Workstation Card

PC:

  • PostScript-aware application
  • RS-232 serial port
  • Appropriate driver software

Network Compatibility

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  • AppleTalk Phase 1 and Phase 2
  • LocalTalk compatible
  • PhoneNET compatible
  • EtherTalk bridge compatible

Service Manual

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The LaserWriter II series service manual is available on the Apple Service Source page.

Successor Models

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Personal LaserWriter NT

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Released July 1990 as lower-cost alternative:

  • Reduced to 2 MB RAM (non-expandable)
  • Smaller footprint
  • Lower price point
  • Same 68000 processor

LaserWriter IIf

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Released October 1991 as direct replacement:

  • 68030 processor at 25 MHz
  • PostScript Level 2
  • 2-32 MB RAM expandable
  • SCSI interface added
  • PhotoGrade and FinePrint options
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