Parallel/Serial Converters

Our VaporPaper software only accepts serial inputs, thus receivers with parallel printer outputs must be converted to serial data. Many such devices are available and this information is not intended to describe them all, only ones available through SIMS. SIMS currently sells and recommends parallel to serial converters by Black Box. Their part number is PI1115A-US which includes a power supply. The unit has DB25 connectors on both ends making cabling easier than using centronics connectors. Without the power supply it will only work with receivers that provide proper voltages to their parallel ports. As simple as that sounds, many of the older receivers do not do this and even some of the newer receivers have trouble with it. Since the power supply is included, use it for any receivers that cause you trouble, but you don't need it for those that do supply sufficient power on the parallel interface. SIMS currently sells the Black Box converters for $154.00 + shipping and tax if applicable. If you have an account with BlackBox, feel free to call them and order the units directly. We also have a limited supply of the PI126A converters from Blackbox. These also have DB25 connectors on both ends and are always non-powered. There are no power supplies for those (and no place to connect one). They are smaller than the units listed above, but will only work with receivers that provide proper parallel port power. We no longer purchase these but we do have some in stock if you are intersted. These are available for $135.00 + shipping and tax if applicable.