Additional Applications for EPP Parallel PCMCIA Cards
Application:
Parallel connection
for Dongles to run licensed software
Quatech
Products Used: SPP-100
single port EPP parallel PCMCIA card
Many licensed software packages require keys (dongles) in order
to operate. However, many of today's laptops do not have built-in parallel
ports. A PCMCIA card such as Quatech's SPP-100 that functions exactly
like a native bi-directional parallel port solves this problem and enables
the software keys to be used.
For
example, one Quatech customer uses Quatech's SPP-100 EPP parallel PCMCIA to
run embroidery software on a Babylock electronic sewing machine. The software
uses a security "dongle" that must be attached to a bi-directional
parallel port provided by our card.
Interesting
note: USB to parallel adapters often cannot be used for this purpose because
they do not provide full bi-directional communication, they are simply printer
ports.
Application:
CCD camera
control and astronomical imaging
Quatech Products Used: SPP-100
single port EPP parallel PCMCIA card
Many astronomers use CCD (Charged-Coupled Device) telescopic cameras to take
high-resolution pictures of the heavens. To monitor and control these
telescopic cameras Sourthern Stars Systems has developed the SkySight
software package. This free, open source application (see http://www.southernstars.com/skysight/index.html
for system requirements and download information)
SkySight is intended
to be used as a companion to the company's sky simulation and telescope control
program, SkyChart III. SkyChart III helps you find your way around the sky.
SkySight lets you see what's in it. Together, SkyChart III and SkySight provide
a complete solution for sky simulation, telescope control, CCD camera control,
and image processing. However, they also require an EPP parallel port to interface
with the CCD cameras. Many desktop systems provide such a port, but it is often
lacking on laptops-and even if the laptop does still provide a parallel port,
it often is not a high-speed EPP port. Southern Stars Systems recommend Quatech's
SPP-100 for implementing their solutions on portable systems.
|