re:Getting Parallel port to run relay

> Any thoughts on damage to computer?
>
> Any pointers on assessing computer damage?
>
> Hard to believe there isn't a plug and play device just for this,
> but have had no luck finding anything.
>
> First cuts looked surprisingly good and had High hopes. Depression
> is now setting in quickly.
>
> Any advice greatly appreciated.
>

Well it sounds like you toasted your printer port. Go to the BIOS and disable it. Plug in a replacement printer port. If you have ISA it will be surplus if you have PCI it will be about $25-$35.

To start with always use a plug-in printer port for prototyping. If you fry it you can take it out and replace it.
Once the boards are built, mounted, tested, heatsinked, faned, tested ....(well you get the idea) then you can hook up to the internal port.

You might want to avoid the game port at first.....programming it is a little harder. And you have plenty of signals on the printer port. Add another if needed.

Breadboard your circuit and work back from the relay

Simulate the printer porrt with a ttl gate (they are tougher than CMOS) from the 7400 family.

only hook to the computer after everything works for a few days.

good luck!!




Lane Barry
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