Hi John, >|The other is the "SuperIO" parallel port that is built into the motherboard. >|It can only source 1.2-1.5 mA per pin. I have driven a 12C508 (which >|requires 2 mA running at 4 MHz using the internal oscillator) from this port >|by using the "-SLCT IN" and "-AUTO FD XT" connected through diodes (to >|prevent backdriving). > >I thought it was common for the non-data wires to be open-collector >with moderate pullips; using them for supplying power would seem >like it wouldn't be terribly effective. Have you measured the data >pins? Those should be beefier. I measured 1 mA for sinking and sourcing for this particular PC. If they are open-collector/open-drain, doesn't that still indicate that power would have to be driven external to the card? myke This week's books, Derek Robinson's wonderful "Piece of Cake". The Epic story of the RAF's "Hornet Squadron" during the first year of World War Two: http://www.myke.com/Book_Room/book1a.htm Now Available! "Programming and Customizing the 8051 Microcontroller". Find out more at: http://www.myke.com/My_Books/pac8051.htm