SOLVED!!!!! 

the whole problem was from the fact that the onboard parallel port was 3.3v.  I spent so much time assuming that i had a signal, that i didn't check to see what the actual voltage was.  now it works exactly as it was supposed to!!

for those who run across this thread or have this same problem, i ordered this parallel port from newegg.com for around $14 with free shipping (which is why this post is 10 days later.  shouldn't have cheaped out and paid to get it sooner!)

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815166006&Tpk=15-166-006

I am pleased you have found the problem 

Tweakie.

Hey Tweakie!

I solved my Laser issue! I dumped the Blue board and went with break out board & 2 driver boards for X & Y. I forced myself to read the MACH 3 manual  . I ran the Z DIR pin into the Relay on the Break Out Board. I then ran the Output of the Relay to the "L" on my PSU. I turned on the Spindle Control on MACH 3. No Ground wire needed. IT WORKED! This is not exactly what I wanted it to do "REALLY ?!?" I wanted it to be variable controlled but I will take this win anytime!! I will figure that out later.


Thanks Tweakie for your help

Jeff

SOLVED!!!!!  

the whole problem was from the fact that the onboard parallel port was 3.3v.  I spent so much time assuming that i had a signal, that i didn't check to see what the actual voltage was.  now it works exactly as it was supposed to!!

for those who run across this thread or have this same problem, i ordered this parallel port from newegg.com for around $14 with free shipping (which is why this post is 10 days later.  shouldn't have cheaped out and paid to get it sooner!)

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815166006&Tpk=15-166-006

Glad to see you got yours working! Are you able to vary the Laser Power Output "Variable" or is it ON - OFF like mine now? I want it to be variable power.
Going to order one myself, we both had the exact same issue. Could you post screen shots of you MACH 3 setup for this Laser?


Thanks in Advance
Jeff