First, should the power(?) led glow dimly when just connected to the parallel port and NOT the power supply? My burner is not working and the diagnostic software says it is the MC74HC595N IC, though I think I may just have a screwed up connection.

Second, how can one tell which way to install a tantalum (not electrolytic) capacitor? The instructions mention installing it in the proper polarity, but there is no designation on the board or cap that I can see?

Third, when it says the voltage should be "circa 0" (as opposed to 3-5v) is it safe to assumre that 0.2v is low enough?

This whole problem (not counting the led) may be a result of too little current, as I am only using a 50mA supply, which is probably too low.

If anyone can help it would be great as this is fairly frustrating.

 

OK...well, it seems that I had installed a part incorrectly and had something set weird on the computer...now the board passes the hardware tests, but whenever I burn a chip the verification fails and the checksum is not 0000 (shouldn't it be that?)...any idea what the prob could be?


I also changed the power supply to a 12v 300mA, and it supplies 15v when the burner is on, because of low load...so, I don't think that is the issue.