7i97T stepgen outputs dead, encoders & I/O OK - suspect damaged P2 interface

“This header has a pin-out that matches a standard parallel port.”

This is true and it electrically matches  standard parallel port in terms of drive
and overvoltage capability.

PC parallel ports are also not suggested for direct connection to motor drives
where a single wiring mistake can permanently damage a motherboard.

It is possible to use the outputs of P2 directly (as you can with a PC parallel port)
but  care must be taken to avoid even an brief contact to a voltage  outside the safe range.

7i97t_5abobd is designed to interface to the common Sainsmart 5 Axis BOB:

www.amazon.com/SainSmart-Breakout-Board-...Driver/dp/B0093Y897A

As tommylight mentioned, eusurplus is a Mesa distributor and they currently have the 7I97T in stock.

Also as I mentioned, your damaged 7I97T is very likely repairable.

Thank you for your quick responses!  Please tell me, am I correct in understanding that U22 refers to this chip? Could you also tell me where else in Europe it can be found, or any suitable equivalents? 

Yes, U22

Here is at least one source:

eu.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Texas-Instru...gQLk2CaRciYmIQ%3D%3D
 

Thank you very much for your professional responses! I’ve decided to order another board along with a daughter card now to avoid a similar failure in the future. I’ll slowly work on repairing the current board, it will serve as a spare one, or I might sell it later. It seems that delivery across Europe will be quite fast using the link you provided. I’ll update you later on how my board recovery story ends.