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As computer manufacturers begin to phase out old standards (e.g. IEEE 1284, RS-232), there is an increasingly large base of computer users who want to use their old Hewlett-Packer parallel printer with newer USB-only laptop and desktop systems. They purchase a USB to Parallel adapter, only to find that the parallel end doesnt fit on their HP printer. What's the problem?

In 1992, citing compact size and a simple connection to the printer, Hewlett-Packer decided to go with the IEEE 1284C connector, also known as mini- or micro-centronics. However, this connection has proved to be largely unpopular with other manufacturers, resulting in an interface that is nearly unique to HP printers.

As the IEEE 1284 standard became outdated in favor of USB, adapters sprang up to fill the gap between the older parallel printers and newer USB-only computers. However, manufacturers of these adapters went with the most popular printer connector: CEN-36 or centronics, which is considerably larger in size, although comparable in capability to the mini-centronics connection. So where does this leave those with old but useable mini-centronics parallel HP printers?

The answer is found in the centronics to mini-centronics adapter. This adapter converts a larger-sized centronics connection to the smaller, more compact mini-centronics end, allowing people to connect their parallel HP printers to their newer computers. A word of caution: the USB to parallel adapter is still necessary to complete the connection because the conversion from parallel to USB must still be made.

The contronics to mini-centronics adapter is a niche product that can be difficult to find, but it represents the best solution for those wanting to hold on to that old HP printer.

Nathan Kartchner is a product development rep for Sewell Direct, an online retailer of hard-to-find computer connectivity products, like the USB to Parallel adapter.

Learning basic tennis strokes is essential to setting the stage for better play in the future. Fail to learn these basics early on and you will struggle with overcoming bad playing habits for years to come.

While there are a variety of strokes that new and advanced players can use in tennis, the novice should concentrate on the two main strokes first, before moving on to the more advanced techniques and movements used in more advanced play.

There are two basic tennis strokes that every player must master in order to be competent on the court: the groundstroke and the overhead. These are necessary in order to compete on any level, and should be mastered first.

The best way to learn proper stroke technique is to find a trained coach to get you started on a lifelong enjoyment of the game. Most newcomers to tennis spend a few months perfecting their technique and game with a trainer before hitting the courts on their own. If this is not an option, these simple tips should help get you started learning the two basic strokes listed above.

When learning the groundstroke, remember these important guidelines:
1: Always begin your groundstroke with a slight, short backswing.
2: Use a shortened grip on the club until mastering this all-important tennis stroke
3: Use a regular type of follow-through. Don't try to be fancy here. The important thing is to learn the stroke first.
4: Try lengthening your backswing at a slow pace.
5: Slide the grip toward the handle.
6: Remember, in basic tennis for beginners, you will drop feed first! Second, doing your short drop feed is fine, and lastly, following the short drop feed, you will feed from your racquet.
7: Begin slowly and usually try to end with a run.

When practicing overheads, be sure to:
1: Begin your swing at point of contact, slowly presenting a bigger swing can
2: Stand close to the net, followed by slowly moving backward.
3: Begin with an incredibly soft-feed right to the racquet.
4: Practice for short periods of time (less than 30 minutes) in order to not tire your arm and stay fresh and alert. Some players, however, many find that they get so lost in the game that they can practice for hours. If this is the case, and you aren't experiencing any negative side effects (swollen tendons and muscles or overall arm soreness), than by all means practice away! No matter how long your practice session, be sure to have them frequently. Several times a week is most commonly recommended, especially for beginners.
5: Begin advanced drills as soon as you've mastered this basic swing Whatever swing you're working on, always be sure to practice precise technique, featuring the exact form and bodylines needed, and proper movements!

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