Question 1

Wondows 7 compatible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you'll want to make sure your computer's PCI slots are the same as this card.  I've been receiving desktops from Lenovo that have the newer PCIe (express) slots.

Question 2

is this card compatible with Windows 8.1?  Just bought a new  computer does not have a parallel port for my plotter - was told I needed to get a card but to make sure it is compatible

Accepted Answer

I don't have 8.1, I am using 7, but I have to say that for the price I was willing to take the chance and I won big time. I connected both printers and turned them on before I powered up the processor. (Yes it does come with the second port connector that plugs into the pins you see at the top. None of the pictures show it). when I powered up Windows it instantly recognized both ports and both printers. The port on the board becomes LPT2 and the one on the cable becomes LPT3. Apparently, even though the motherboard has no parallel port, LPT1 must be reserved or something. I would strongly suspect that this board will work fine with 8.1 because I believe the major difference between it and 7 is the improved recognition of touch screens etc. I hope this helped.

Question 3

Does this include brackets for both standard and slim form-factors?  I'd like to be able to use the same card for either a standard-size desktop, or a slimmer Lenovo ThinkCentre M83.

Accepted Answer

Yes, the package includes both standard and small form factor brackets for both the card and the secondary port connector.

Question 4

Does this, or any add-on parallel card, allow me to run my parallel printer? What is needed in the way of software, if any?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this allows you to do that.  Needed drivers generally come with the card, or can/should be downloaded.  Two important thoughts: watch the needed slot configuration (EISA, PCI, PCI-e, etc.); and the correct operating system (I had to return 2 different ones because I couldn't get it to work with my Windows 8),even though it said it was compatible.

Question 5

will this card work in older computer running windows XP ?

Accepted Answer

This card runs fine under XP.

The PCI card slots in the computer need to be 5 volt slots. Almost
all consumer computers are 5 volt. If the computer is a purpose built server check the manual.

Question 6

Does it come with the other port cable and mount ?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the one that they sent me came with a cable that has a slot-bracket with a female port connector on one end and a female socket connector on the other end for attaching to the male connector on the board.

Question 7

Will this card work in windows 10?

Accepted Answer

I can only tell you that it works on Win 7 for my HP LaserJet.
I don't see why it would not work on Win 10.

Good luck ...John

Questions & Answers