Hello friends! I have a problem with Mach3 and using a second parallel port. I tried to use PCI parallel port cards on my Computer for Mach 3
I tested three different Cards always with the same result. For output (out from the computer to stepper) it is working perfect.
But for inputs into the computer ( using encoder) it does not work. I build my own testing device (switches) ensuring 5V logic.
This device is working properly on the first (motherboard) parallel port. But, how described the PCI parallel port card does not react for inputs.
Has anybody an idea whats wrong. Does anybody have the same experience.
Thanks a lot, Alexander the German
 

Are you sure that the address for the 2nd PP is enabled and is correct and also that you are using pins
2-9 on that card as inputs and the box is checked in configure>ports and pins?
RICH

Yes I am sure. I wrote that the second parallel card is working, but only for outputs!
Yes I now that pins 2 to 9 are only for output. Only pins 10,11,12,13,14,16 and 17 are inputs. And these pins are not working.
Thanks and Ciao

14, 16 and 17 are outputs.

Have you tried shorting the Input pins to a Gnd pin?

Hood

testing device: from 5Volt a resistor of 300 ohms to the input pinand then with a switch to ground. For verifying the Testdevice I used in on a freeware software for the parallel port. It is working very well.
Sorry for the pins 14 16 and 17. You are right. Of course I tested the Parallel port as it is described in chapter 4.4.1 in the Mach 3 manual.
Belive me: I verified all possibilities more then one time.
Thank You and Ciao