YA Singlehanded Input Device - technical

Preface

This is a schematic of the hardware part of Yashid, or more to the point: How to build a Yashid-device that can be connected to a PC parallel port.

It is assumed that the reader is familiar with idea behind Yashid.

PC parallel port

A PC parallel port (sometimes known as the printer port) can be hard to define. Various enhancements have been introduced since the original IBM-PC Parallel Port. Fortunately the original specification allows for 5 digital inputs, which is just what Yashid needs. The newer PS/2, EPP or ECP standards aren't required.

Schematic for Yashid parallel connection

Parallel port, PC side.
Pin	Name	Description	Used for
10	/ACK	Acknowledge	Button 0
11	BUSY	Busy	Button 1
12	PE	paper End	Button 2
13	SEL	Select	Button 3
15	/ERROR	Error	Button 4
18	GND	Signal Ground	Ground

Multiplicity

In order to test more than one prototype, a simple 6 pins connecter is placed between the parallel port connector and the Yashid device. The parallel port side used a female connector and the Yashid device used the corresponding male connector.

Schematic for Yashid pin connector

Female connector (parallel port side)
Pin	Used for
1	Button 1
2	Button 2
3	Button 3
4	Button 4
5	Button 0
6	Ground

Electronics

In order to raise a signal on the in-pins on the PC Parallel Port, a connection to Ground is needed. There is no need for resistors for that sort of connection, so a simple switch is enough.

Disclaimer

The information above should not be regarded as a guide for building devices that connects to the parallel port. The author takes no responsibility for damages caused by following the instructions above.

Toke Eskildsen, 8. may 2001