The Simplified I/O Interface using parallel port

You can use a nine volt battery for normal use. (The diode connected to the negative terminal will protect the 7805 voltage regulator against reverse polarity.) If you want to try driving stepper motors. you will need to use a 12 volt supply able to deliver at least one amp. The supply should be regulated!!

If you wanted to, you could connect a small DC electric ("hobby") motor directly across an output line. As long as the total current drawn through the ULN2803 was less than one amp you should have no problems.
Program to control this has been posted before which is made using c/c++.

Parts List
8 x 3mm LEDs
8 x 390 ohm 1/4 watt resistors
4 x 100 kohm 1/4 watt resistors
1 x 10 kohm 1/4 watt resistor
1 x 1N4001 Diode
1 x 7805 voltage regulator
1 x 0.01 uF greencap capacitor
1 x ULN 2803
1 x 74LS244
1 x 15 volt zener diode
1 x PCB mount, right angled DB25 socket
1 x PCB
1 x 9 volt battery clip
1 x 25 pin male to male cable
1 x 9 volt battery
Optional: 9 x 2-way PCB Mount Screw Terminals

For more help you can simply write a message below or mail me.