Abstract

ESCOBAR, Rogelio  and  LATTAL, Kennon A.. Low-Cost Interface Using a Parallel Port and Visual Basic. Rev. mex. anál. conducta [online]. 2010, vol.36, n.3, pp.7-21. ISSN 0185-4534.  https://doi.org/10.5514/rmac.v36.i3.01.

The design of a low-cost interface is described that uses the parallel port of a PC to control experiments that require from 1 to 8 outputs in combination with 1 to 4 inputs using the programming language Visual Basic^® 2008 Express Edition that is freely distributed. This interface allows for controlling response-input consoles and experimental chambers that can be used in experiments with humans and nonhuman animals using only a computer. To facilitate the application of the interface in experiments on behavior analysis, the use of micro switches and photobeam sensors for recording responses as well as the use of devices controlled via micro relays is described.

Keywords : Interface; parallel port; Visual Basic; instrumentation; relays; photobeam sensors.