I got an old Lexmark z32 printer and Id like to take it apart and use the stepper motors on another project. Is there a way I can use the existing printer interface connected to a computer to program new movements for the motors, or a cpmmand I can send to the printer to make the motors move?
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printer hack??
- Thread starter Marklar
- Start date
Not really. The data sent over the printer interface is abstracted above the hardware enough so that you don't really have any discreet control over the hardware. You could possibly write a program that "prints" things that will move the motors, but you won't have very fine control over the motors. You would only be able to move the motors in ways that they normally move when printing. I think it would be easier in the long run to just spend a couple bucks to get some stepper driver chips.
I second that... unless there is some way to access the printer's microprocessor and wipe all the firmware from it. then find the commands needed to move the motors. but then again the programming should be stored in some type of ROM and therefore impossible to erase. but good luck anyway. 