Centronics is a company best known for developing the first parallel printer interface, which became a standard for connecting printers to computers. Founded in 1971, it played a significant role in the evolution of computer printing technology, allowing for faster data transfer compared to earlier serial connections. The Centronics interface, often referred to as the Centronics connector, features a 36-pin design that became widely adopted in the 1980s and 1990s. This technology paved the way for various printer types, including dot matrix and inkjet printers, and influenced the development of modern printing interfaces.