Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!tut.cis.ohio-state.edu!ucsd!usc!zaphod.mps.ohio-state.edu!rpi!peck
From: peck@ral.rpi.edu (Joseph Peck)
Newsgroups: comp.periphs
Subject: Configurable Parallel Ports
Summary: Do most clones have it?
Message-ID: <_N?$JY#@rpi.edu>
Date: 13 Jun 90 20:50:33 GMT
Organization: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy NY
Lines: 15

Well, I am new to the world of IBM's (ordering one next week) and
have a question about the parallel ports.  I have been told that
some clones come only with what amounts to a printer port, i.e.
only output capability.  I have also been told that most are 
bidirectional.  (but then again, others told me the exact opposite)
I want to be able to independently configure each data line for 
input or output regardless of the other pins.  Ideally, I need
five input lines and 3 output lines.  I really do want to do this 
with the parallel port, not some other expansion board.  Is this 
possible?  And do most clones have this capability?  Any information
would be greatly appreciated.

                   Thanks,
                   Joe Peck
                   peck@ral.rpi.edu