I knew I saw this earlier, don't know how I overlooked it while searching this time.
http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,31954.msg222381.html#msg222381The following is from the PMDX website.System requirements for the computer running Mach4 are:
PREFERRED: 32 or 64-bit Laptop or Desktop - Using an External Motion Controller
Windows XP with SP3, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10 Pro
(Windows 10 Home not recommended because updates always install automatically)
(As development tools evolve it is becoming harder to support XP and it may become
deprecated in the future.)
An appropriate external motion controller such as the SmartBOB series by PMDX.
Mach4 Plugin for the selected Motion Controller
2Ghz processor in native mode (virtual machines not supported)
Multi-core processor strongly recommended. If single core please enable hyperthreading in your BIOS.
minimum memory 1GB RAM for XP or Vista, 2GB for Windows 7 and later, Mach4 updates may raise minimums
recommended memory 2GB RAM for XP or Vista, 4GB for Windows 7 and later
Video graphics (card or integrated) with 256MB RAM minimum (Large G-code files, especially 3D files will require a video card with 512MB RAM or higher)
Video graphics must support Open GL version 1.5 or later
Wired Ethernet controller (USB adapters are OK but must remain plugged in, using a wireless Ethernet adapter for your PCID will cause problems) Network connection is not required while running MACH4.
ALTERNATE: 32-bit Desktop - Using parallel port for control
32-bit version of Windows XP with SP3, Windows Vista, or Windows 7
(Windows 8 and later cannot use the printer port for CNC control)
Desktop computer with a parallel port using a DB-25 connector
Using a laptop and its parallel port with Mach4 is not recommended or supported.
Using a USB to printer converter will not work because the converter will corrupt the timing.
Mach4 Parallel Port Legacy Plugin (must be purchased separately)
Legacy Parallel Port Plugin does NOT support Lathe Threading, Backlash Compensation, or Plasma Cutter Torch Height Control and these features are NOT planned for the future.
2Ghz processor in native mode (virtual machines not supported)
Multi-core processor strongly recommended. If single core please enable hyperthreading in your BIOS.
minimum memory 1GB RAM for XP or Vista, 2GB for Windows 7 and later, Mach4 updates may raise minimums
recommended memory 2GB RAM for XP or Vista, 4GB for Windows 7 and later
Non-integrated Video Card with 256MB RAM minimum (Large G-code files, especially 3D files will require a video card with 512MB RAM or higher).
Motherboard based video graphics generally will not play well with the parallel port driver.
Video graphics must support Open GL version 1.5 or later.
Wired Ethernet controller (USB adapters are OK but must remain plugged in, using a wireless Ethernet for your PCID will cause problems) Network connection is not required while running MACH4.
Still wondering if one is correct, and the other not.
Thanks,
Russ