Can I create a sw device with LV to check the output of my UUT's parallel port?

[Andrecito]

My unit under test has a parallel port that is used to print to an external printer.

Is there a way with LabView that I can connect my UUT to the PC's parallel port and verify the output from my UUT?

Thanks!

[Vikask]

Yes. You can connect your device to parallel port of PC and can communicate with it using the Port I/O VIs located in functions>>Advanced>>Port I/O

[Henrik_Volkers]

Yes, you need a special cable. It was used in the past to share data between two PCs. Didn't the good ol' DOS Norton Commander supported that ?

I did something similar in the past to connect an old standalone test unit with protocol printer to a SPC database. Since the amount of data wasn't big and cable lenght and ground loops where additional tasks, i used a galvanic isolated parallel to serial (RS232) adaptor. That way I could use the VISA driver and didn't have to care for access right to use the PORT I/O vis. You also should try to use the VISA vis to read the parallel port directly.    

[Andrecito]

Hey Guys, thanks a lot for your suggestions.

Seems like I can set up my parallel port to read by flipping the 5th bit on the Control register. However, I'm not sure I have the right cable for the job. I tried using a direct P1-P1, P2-P2.... as well as a Windows "Direct Cable".

When I connect my device to the computer, the device thinks the printer's Busy; I tried flipping the busy bit (bit 7 on status refister), but this had no effect; this is why I think I may not be using the right cable.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!