No parallel port for hardlock

[Jinj]

I have recently bought a new pc and have found on delivery that it does not have a parallel port which I need for a software hardlock.

I have tried a parallel to serial (21 pin to 9 pin) converter but this doesnt seem to work.

Does anyone know of any other solution to this problem i.e. parallel/usb converter

 

[bcastner]

Add a PCI-based parallel port:

http://www.provantage.com/buy-22054784-startech-computer-parts-i-o-cards-parallel-shopping.htm

 

[Jinj]

Thanks very much. I didnt even think of that. i will get one and give it a try.

Cheers

 

[Frank4d]

If it's a Dell, chances are there is a parallel port connector on the MOBO and they don't give you a connector on the back of the case (why do they do that?). I recently needed to add a second serial port and Dell sold the required connector and cable for $9.

 

[Jinj]

I have tried adding a parallel port PCI card to my machine but it seems to conflict and the machine will not even boot up with it in.

do you know how I can get round this or any other solution?

Thanks

 

[micker377]

With/out the add-in card: In Device Manager, does it show any parallel port? If so, it should also show an interrupt for this port. Click on "do not use", and try the add-in card again. Post all stats of the computer we are working on.

 

[Jinj]

it does not show a parallel port in device manager. only shows communication port(com1)

How can i get full stats from my machine to post here?

 

[bcastner]

Try the board in a different PCI slot.

 

[Jinj]

only 1 left pci slot left

 

[edfair]

You may also want to check the PCI inrerrupt availablility and whether you can modify them in the BIOS. Haven't had the pleasure of using one of the PCI based ports so don't know what it is looking for or generating for the system.

Ed Fair
Give the wrong symptoms, get the wrong solutions.

 

[micker377]

Is there only one PCI slot, or only one open slot? You can swap, if more than one, or remove what's in there to test this problem.