Add on PCI parallel port and Mach

[RedLabel]

I was using mach with my cnc with great success 2 years ago (tried emc2, turbo cnc but mach seems to run better).
Unfortunately my previous motherboard is not working anymore. The new motherboard I purchased supposed to have parallel port but it turned out to be an "updated" version with 8 usb ports in the back lots of other ports but NO parallel port.

I did not use my cnc for the last year but now I'm planning to return to hobby and trying to figure out a way to use my new desktop with the boards like xylotex.

From the operation of usb ports it seems impossible to generate the signals needed for the controller so I ruled out simple usb to parallel port converters.


What about add-on pci parallel port cards? I think they should work properly.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16815166007

Planning to purchase the card above. It can support up to to parallel ports. Do you think it will work well?



Suggestions are welcome...

[Torchhead]

That card has the MOSCHIP chip set that has worked well for us in the past with MACH.

Chipset: MOSCHIP MCS9815CV

One thing we have had trouble with is trying to take a PC that is designed to run Vista and make it work with XP and some of the cards. Took several tries with different drivers to make it work.

I have been buying refurbed HP's and Dell's that have XP PRo installed, 3G processor, 1G Ram and new keyboard and Mouse for 139 to 159 bucks. They have a built in parallel and serial port and some USB.

TOM Caudle
www.CandCNC.com

[RedLabel]

thanks for the reply.
It will be easier for me to put a pci card to my current computer since I am thinking of putting the router in the same room.

But for the price of 140-150 i would definitely look into getting one of those refurbs. May I ask you where can I purchase one ?

[Torchhead]

Ebay id # 140364485201