What could happen if you unplug a parallel port device with the system on?

[AlastorX82]

I unplugged a scanner, and now my system is FUCT. As a general question, what is most likely to be damaged (if anything), when you unplug without shutting down the system?

 

[DrZone]

To my knowledge, both items can be on while unplugging them. They just cant be in use. For example, the printer shouldnt be printing or the scanner shouldnt be scanning while you unplug them. But otherwise, if they're idle and you unplug them, it should be ok.

 

[bjc112]

to my knowing, i think that as long as it is something external I.E. mouse, keyboard you are fine.. .

just dont go unplugging the fan header or CD-ROM inside that case

 

[Byte]

a lot of people fry their mouse ports by taking them in and out. PP ports aren't as bad, but don't do it too much. USB is the only one with official hot swap.

 

[JC]

I've never unplugged a parallel port device, but I know you're not 'sposed to! Serial mice can be hot-plugged, but do that with a PS/2 mouse and you've fried some circuitry.
You mighta cooked the southbridge, that's what the parallel port runs off of.

USB rulez!

JC