topic Dongle on new computer without parallel port in FeatureCAM Forum

Dongle on new computer without parallel port

timMVYWS — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 15:53:28 GMT

I have a old version of Feature Cam (2006) that I have used without problems. It does everything I need, so I have never seen the need to upgrade. It requires a dongle plugged into a parallel port. I have replaced my old computer and the new one does not have a parallel port. I purchased a USB to parallel port cable, but have not been able to get Feature Cam to recognize the dongle through the adapter cable. Is this something that can be made to work?

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

bhorstTGM48 — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 18:42:17 GMT

https://www.startech.com/en-us/cards-adapters/pci2s1p

Have you considered trying something like this?

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

timMVYWS — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 18:47:45 GMT

Problem is, the computer the company bought as a replacement is a Laptop not a desktop. 😞

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

AJHanson — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:56:36 GMT

Have you tried getting a hold of Feature Cam to see if they could send a USB dongle out for your laptop?

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

jeff_brower — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:42:20 GMT

We have a Dell docking station for one of our laptops that includes a parallel port, it's probably an older unit and we don't know if it would work with a dongle but it's an idea.

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

timMVYWS — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 18:13:47 GMT

Featurecam has underwent at least two buyouts that I know of since we purchased our 2006 version.

Delcam bought them out, then Autodesk bought out Delcam.

I have contacted Autodesk about upgrading Featurecam (cost in the range of $7,000) not a viable option.

I did not ask if they could offer anything that would allow me to continue to use old Featurecam on a new system.

I may try that, but I assume they would tell me they do not support software that is so old.

Re: Dongle on new computer without parallel port

lesturf432 — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:58:45 GMT

I understand the challenges you're facing with your old version of Feature Cam and the compatibility issues with the dongle and USB to parallel port cable. It's important to note that Autodesk may not https://lesturf.com officially support older versions of their software on modern hardware configurations. However, there are a few steps you can take to try and make it work. Ensure that you have installed the latest drivers for the USB to parallel port cable, following the manufacturer's instructions.