The StarTech EC1PECPS is a 1-port ExpressCard adapter that adds IEEE 1284 parallel port connectivity to laptops equipped with ExpressCard slots. This card bridges legacy parallel devices—including printers, scanners, plotters, and memory card readers—to modern notebooks via PCI Express (x1) bus architecture. The PLX/Oxford OXPCIe952 chipset delivers up to 1.5 Mbps data transfer with a 32-byte FIFO buffer, offering a direct alternative to USB-based parallel solutions. The adapter supports both 34mm and 54mm ExpressCard form factors, ensuring broad notebook compatibility.
Technical Specifications
• Chipset: PLX/Oxford OXPCIe952
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 1.5 Mbps
• FIFO Buffer: 32-byte
• Bus Interface: ExpressCard/34 and ExpressCard/54
• PCI Express Compatibility: x1/x2/x4/x8/x16 lanes
• External Port: 1 x DB-25 (25-pin, D-Sub) Female
• Physical Dimensions: 4.5 in L × 1.7 in W × 0.8 in H [115 × 44 × 20 mm]
• Product Weight: 40 g [1.4 oz]
– Key Features
• Supports IEEE 1284, SPP, EPP, and ECP protocols for maximum device compatibility
• WHQL certified for Windows environments
• x1/x2/x4/x8/x16 PCI Express lane negotiation enables operation in any ExpressCard slot configuration
• 32-byte FIFO buffering maintains data integrity during transfers
• Compact form factor minimizes laptop footprint impact
– Typical Applications
Legacy parallel device integration on modern mobile workstations, including office multifunction devices, industrial plotters, specialized memory card readers, and archival scanner systems requiring native parallel communication.
– Compatibility & Integration
Operating system support spans Windows 11, 10, 8/8.1, 7, Vista, XP, 2000, 98SE, 95, CE 6.0/5.0, and Windows Server 2019, 2016, 2012, 2012 R2, 2008 R2, 2003, 2000 (32/64-bit where applicable). Linux compatibility includes kernel versions 2.4.x through 4.11.x LTS. Driver CD and instruction manual included; ExpressCard slot type (34mm or 54mm) determined by host laptop design.
