Hello,
I'm working on a small simple project of finding the simplest way to get a native computer parallel (LPT) to control a series of small electric motors.
The electric motors are 9V ones and I am thinking of being able to select the direction in which they spin. My power source (a simple generic AC/DC adapter) has short circuit protection, so no worries in this aspect.
I have already written the Linux software required to apply voltage to a LPT pin of choice, but the electronics area is a bit troubling to me. I can't seem to be able to get my hands on the right kind of transistor... the amplifier ones have high resistance due to the low current from the LPT port, while the other type can't handle the current required to drive a 9V DC motor. I have considered using relays but I have no idea where to find them, not to mention I have no idea if the current from the LPT port will be sufficient to trigger them.
Can somebody help me with this please?
If possible I would like suggestions in hardware I can scavenge from other components or whatever is cheaper than say 75$ altogether.
Thanks a lot in advance. :)