Printer redirection in DOS: Which DOS command is used to redirect devices (for example, assigning a serial port to act as a printer port or changing display/print modes)?

Introduction / Context:
Legacy DOS environments often needed device redirection—for instance, routing LPT output through a serial port or adjusting communications parameters. The system utility that configures such device modes and mappings is crucial for compatibility with older printers and terminals.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We aim to redirect printer output or change port settings.
• We are using native DOS commands, not network client tools.
• We may need to set baud rate, parity, or map LPT to COM.

Concept / Approach:

MODE is the DOS command that sets device modes and can redirect printer output (e.g., MODE LPT1:=COM1:) and adjust serial parameters (MODE COM1:9600,N,8,1). PRINT is a spooling utility; TYPE displays file contents; CAPTURE is a Novell NetWare utility, not a standard DOS command.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Running MODE without arguments lists current settings; documentation shows syntax for device mapping and serial configuration.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• TYPE: outputs file text to screen; doesn't redirect printers.
• CAPTURE: NetWare client tool, not core DOS.
• PRINT: queues files to a printer but doesn't perform device remapping.
• None of the above: incorrect since MODE is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming PRINT can change ports; it relies on existing device mappings. Forgetting to specify both direction and colon notation (e.g., LPT1:=COM1:).

Final Answer:

MODE