Zebra MtP400 Operator's Manual - Irda Interface

Interfacing to a Host Computer 

IrDA Interface 

In addition to the standard Serial interface, your MtP400 may be equipped with an optional IrDA interface.  

IrDA interfaces are commonly found on many PDA’s and notebook computers.  To communicate using the 

IrDA interface, “IrDA” must be selected in the Interface Menu as described on page 24. 

The IrDA interface uses infrared light to provide a cable free, short range interface.  Since the communications 

medium is light, it is “line-of-sight” and requires that the interfaces on the printer and the host device be aligned 

with, or pointed at, each other.  The printer’s transmitter and receiver are located behind an “IrDA Window” as 

indicated in Figure 12. 

Whenever a host computer has established a connection with the printer, the 

 Wireless Indicator will 

illuminate. 

Note: The printer’s IrDA implementation makes use of IrCOMM rather than IrLPT.  As a result, some host 

systems will require that the printer connection be established using a “COM” port rather than 

selecting “IrDA”.  In most PDA’s, for instance, this will be “COM3”. 

LCD Display

Wireless Indicator 

IrDA Window

Figure 12 – Wireless Indicator & IrDA Window 

Bluetooth

®

 Interface 

In addition to the standard Serial interface, your MtP400 may be equipped with an optional Bluetooth interface.  

Bluetooth interfaces are built into some PDA’s and may be added to most others.  Bluetooth interfaces may also 

be added to notebook or desktop computers.  To communicate using the Bluetooth®  interface, “Bluetooth” 

must be selected in the Interface Menu as described on page 24. 

The Bluetooth interface uses wireless, radio frequency signals to communicate, which eliminates the line-of-

sight requirement imposed by the IrDA interface. 

The MtP400 Bluetooth interface acts as a “serial port adapter” operating as a “server”.  Being a serial port 

adapter means that the printer may appear as a “Serial Device” when discovered, rather than as a “Printer”.  

Operating as a server, other devices such as a PDA or other host computer may initiate the connection to the 

printer.   

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