Originally Posted by smarbaga hello all, i think i will try this question here
is it possible to port the data that is going to and from the printer port via these cnc software packages ie: mastercam, turbocnc and the rest of them to a usb port ?
if so i can make that data into step and direction signals as well as giving the software input signals from encoders and switches and the like .
any replies are appreciated.
thank you. |
Geckodrive is slated to release the G2002 in September that will interface to your PC via USB. It will generate the step and direction pulses for up to six axises. It will also act like a breakout box with inputs for encoders, switches, etc. ArtSoft is rewriting the Mach software to work directly with the Geckodrive unit.
Windows, in general, doesn't allow two programs access to the ports simultaneously. While inventive programmers can likely get around this, you still have other issues that would make this a poor way to do what you want.
Parallel and serial ports are nearly extinct-new PCs will soon ship without them. I would expect most of the CNC software manufacturers to rewrite their wares to us USB. So given a little time, the whole issue will go away anyway.
Finally, what about a parallel port to USB converter? Youl'd have to do a little research and hack it, but it might do what you want.