Q. I own a Star DP-510 dot matrix printer which I use with a 48K Spectrum and a centronics parallel interface, and I would appreciate any information on converting the printer to take an RS-232 interface.

Serial interface connectors were an optional choice on this machine so is it possible to adapt it?

This change would enable me to use the printer with the ZX Interface 1.

I would particularly like to know where I could obtain the following:

• Instructions for converting the printer and possibly keeping the connections of the parallel connectors.
• The necessary parts to carry out conversions.
• Any instructions necessary to test the modifications done.

J. Gaffney
Scotland

A. The best advice is to go back to the dealer. According to Star distributor, Microperipherals, the serial interfaces are in stock. The price is £59 plus VAT. According to the company the installation procedure is simply a matter of taking off the printer's cover and plugging the interface in.

If you really want to, it should be possible to convince the dealer to install the item and set the DIP switches, though all you need is a little common sense.

If, by chance, you didn't acquire the printer through a local dealer you can find the nearest by calling Microperipherals on (0256) 3232.