Just a thought.

[eddie]

We have been interfacing to the parallel port for different projects on a computer only. Then it hit me. linux based router + one or more hp jet directs (or similar) would be the ultimate home control system. I have an old 3 port jet direct. You can probably get them for a song if you can find one. Missed opportunity for HP? What does everyone think?

[VE1IO]

People have messed with those devices

http://hackaday.com/2005/09/14/hacking- ... -printers/
http://www.irongeek.com/i.php?page=secu ... terhacking
http://questions.securitytube.net/quest ... -be-hacked

Maybe it will give u ideas?

Jefff

[eddie]

No that is not really what I am looking at. A jet direct is a networked 3 parallel port device and not a printer. parallel ports usually have 8 pins that can be used to control other devices. With a few cheap logic chips and latches, that can be multiplied for more points of control. Without additional chips that means I can control 24 devices digitally (on or off) not including what other input lines could be used for. For example I could control 24 different water sprinkler systems being on/off remotely, 24 different applicances on/off or etc all from the internet without using a computer to do it.,