can I use a usb to parallel adapter with ponyprog?

[jeffbeckib]

can I use a usb to paralle adapter wired to the correct pins for the isp with ponyprog to reprogram the firmware on an altmega32?

[mcalilj]

Hi jeffbeckib,

In this thread, hchriste had to use a PCI card:

Well I dont know how, but information should be passed to people that PonyProg does not work with most USB to Parallel/Serial adapters. Instead you must use a PCI or PCMCIA card emulator for LPT and COM. Ofcause if your computer is old enough to have the ports onboard then you dont need them.

The PonyProg website makes it sound like some adapters might work ok, while others won't:

Q: My PC doesn't have any LPT/COM port, can I use a USB2COM or USB2LPT adapter?

A: Some USB adapters don't work at all while other adapters are very slow. So I suggest to avoid USB adapter
and buy COM/LPT PCMCIA or PCI adapters that emulates 100% native LPT and COM ports.

If you already have an adapter, I say give it a shot. If it works, let us know the model # of your adapter. But if you're planning on buying something new, buy a PCI card.

[hchriste]

Well as stated in another thread, I was not able to use a usb to parallel adapter. Some adapters does not register with windows as a LTP port, but as a usb printing support or some other dedicated application. Even if it registers as a LTP port the Ponyprog forum has plenty of people saying that there are some USB timing issues that results in porgramming taking a very long time to finish. E.g. Reading the fuse bits == 15 min.
I picked up a PCI parallel adapter at the local store for approx 10 EUR. And it worked like a charm, but only after modifying the PonyProg ini file. See the PonyProg FAQ.