Printer connection; USB vs parallel

[videobruce]

I have always used a parallel port for my printers. My first one didn't have USB, the onbe I have now does, but I use the parallel port since:
1. Is it mainly for a printer, I have nothing else that would/could us it.
2. Why tie up a USB port when the other decicated port is there and I have the cable?

BUT, is there:
1. Less processor usage using a USB port?
2. Faster data transfer (USB 1.1 that is)?

I notice when I send a larger 'job' to the printer it really 'chokes' the processor, maxes it out until the job is done. I don't know if it is a port issue or something else.

Specs:
2k, w/sp4 14 processes running at startup
AMD 2100b Throughbred
nForce2 MB
512 MB PC2700

[bailey]

first off,
I really don't notice any differance in printing speed with any of the ports, I use both usb, parallel, and network, all seam to be the same.

as for tying up a usb port, I would highly recommend that you use a self powered usb hub for the connections, as it will give you a greater number of ports to use and also remove any power draw from the motherboard usb supply.
I have 3 usb hubs on my system, and every thing works just great

[links]

I use a USB 1.1 for my printer. It was the only option for me since the printer is about 5 feet away from the comp and the cable had to go through a few small holes. A regular parallel cable just wouldn't fit through the holes. I really didn't feel like drilling more holes. As for speed I havn't noticed a difference. There probably is a difference in speed but for the average job you probably wouldn't notice it.