Question about the computer used for a CNC router

[marksnwv]

As everyone was at one time I am a noobie. I have read that the computer used for the CNC router needs a parallel port. My HP Pavillian dv1000 laptop only has USB ports. What can I do?

[ViperTX]

Easiest thing to do is to get yourself an inexpensive desktop system with parallel ports or the ability to add an ISA or PCI card with parallel ports.

[paulC]

A PC card could be another option.

[marksnwv]

Thanks for the response. The PCI card with a parallel port seems like the way to go. This way I can use the laptop outside of the shop when designing projects and just plug the PCI card in when I am ready to use it on the CNC router.

[paulC]

Originally Posted by marksnwv Thanks for the response. The PCI card with a parallel port seems like the way to go. This way I can use the laptop outside of the shop when designing projects and just plug the PCI card in when I am ready to use it on the CNC router.

You need a PC card (Also refered to as a PCMCIA card) for your laptop. Not a PCI card. Just don't want to see you asking for the wrong thing.
Check that your laptop has a PC card slot first. Most do, but it pays to check.
Paul

[CuttersCov]

This is the card you need:
http://www.transdigital.net/

If you are interested I have one that was never even opened out of the package. They are listed for $125, with a special discount right now for $89.00. I'd be willing to sell mine to you for $75.

PM me if you are interested.

It's a PCMCIA card NOT a PCI. PCMCIA is designed for laptops and looks like a credit card, they were widely used for modems. PCI cards are for desktop machines such as video, sound, and yes parallel ports.

Do a search on google, but click the hyperlink for "Images" first and search for each one you will see pictures and the differences.

-Matt

[la_coterie]

but.. they won't work with Mach3, if thats what you intend using.
best thing is as ViperTX said, buy a cheap desktop with parallel port

[ger21]

Originally Posted by la_coterie but.. they won't work with Mach3, if thats what you intend using.

Someone posted in the last 2 weeks or so that they are using one with Mach3, but whether it works depends on the specific laptop. The only way to know for sure is to try it.

Here's the thread. http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showth...ghlight=PCMCIA

[la_coterie]

well! if it works... but 125 buck is an expensive gamble eh? just seems like another bit in the chain that can go wrong/cause problems.
By my thinking (could well be wrong) USB must be serial, so that's then trying to make parallel data transfers. how can it pump out 3 axis worth of pulses at full speed?
Oh well if it works it works.... not something I fancy trying for a cnc machine..

[ger21]

Originally Posted by la_coterie well! if it works... but 125 buck is an expensive gamble eh?

Especially when Dell is selling refurbished 2Ghz+ PC's on Ebay right now for between $100-$150.

http://cgi.ebay.com/DELL-NO-O-S-Opti...QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/DELL-WINXP-Dimen...QQcmdZViewItem

[la_coterie]

Bummer! they don't ship to France

[CuttersCov]

I have Mach3 and can test it with that, but as Gerry said if it depends on laptops...

-Matt