My old printer won't connect to my new PC, which only has USB ports. Is there a way to do it?

My printer will connect to only, um, a serial port I think, or maybe a parallel port. The new computer came with neither. Is there a way around this, or do I have to buy a new printer--one with a USB plug? I prefer a dot matrix printer, letter-quality type, but a new one with that USB plug costs hundreds and hundreds of dollars. I hope I can just use an adapter but I doubt it. Thanks.

Answers:
Both solutions are valid, installing a parallel port card in an expansion slot or purchasing a usb-parallel adapter.

Two important things you may want to consider though.

1. Buy your cable or card on eBay because retailers charge way to much.

2. Not all printers are compatible with newer operating systems. I once upgraded my operating system only to find that there is no driver for my printer as it is no longer being supported by it's manufacturer. Visit the website of the manufacturer of your printer to make sure there is a driver available that coincides with your operating system before making any equipment purchases. Good luck!
Go to Staples or Radio Shack and get yourself a Parallel to USB printer cable. I know because I worked at Staples recently and that's the main thing people come to the store asking about!
If you have an expansion slot you can get a cheap serial or parrallel port card to run your printer.

There may also be a usb to parrallel converter or printer driver .

What system do you have ? are you sure it doesnt have the port you need ?
You can get an adaptor.
As far as a NEW dot matrix printer, I don't think they even make dot matrix any more.
And why would you even want to continue using a dot matrix?
Yes you can connet your old printer to your new computer.

The easiest way:

Purchase a usb to parrallel port printer cable from a computer retailer (best buy, radioshack, circuit city, staples etc) Expect to spend $30-50 for this cable.

This is what you're looking for:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?...

Hope that helps

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