Parallel device (non-printer) adapt to RS232 serial/usb?

[lugnuts]

Hello, new guy here so take it easy on me Smiley.

I am working with a device (Automotive ECU) that is an older model and uses a 25 pin
parallel port for connection to a laptop.

I have a Dell C400 laptop with USB, RS232 Serial, and PCMCIA slots, running on Windows XP.

Is there a way to convert the parallel signal to be used with my laptop?

I tried making an adapter using the 25 pin to the 9 pin but it does not work.

So far I have found this:
http://www.usbgear.net/item_157.html


Here is the documentation from the manufacturer:

<<< The parallel port must be either an 8 bit bidirectional port or an ECP parallel
port. Single directional parallel ports will not work, these are found on some
older computers and some plug in cards. >>>


Thank you!

[Jan Axelson]

You could give this a try:

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/bastelecke/Rund%20um%20den%20PC/USB2LPT/index.html.en

All of the other USB/parallel adapters I'm aware of work only with printers.

Jan