I can have CamBam open and be using it while cutting but not with the parallel port.

This is what I was meaning. That the SS frees up a lot of CPU resources which in turn can allow running other processes along with Mach3. Not the case with the PP, so if you're judging based on a SS system that might not be true for a PP system.

Dan

I've somewhat stripped down my OS. I have an older P4C800E-Dlx Mobo, with a 2.4C proc and 2 Gig ram.
It runs mach3 on a Win7 OS. I shut off all the windows eye candy, and power saver options.

Over on Black Viper's website, he lists all the widows 'features' you can live without,
and the reprocussions of turning them off. http://www.blackviper.com/

I have Win7 32bit and I've set up Windows to a Safe/Tweaked system, and runs much faster/smoother
then before, I also set Mach3 one level higher on the CPU priority list.

For this older system, it runs pretty good with Windows 7.
I just have to replace my BIOS battery now! LOL ;o)

Check out his site, its full of some great information.

Chris

so if you're judging based on a SS system that might not be true for a PP system.

As I said I have run this machine both ways and I have installed Mach on many other machines and I have done support on many more than that. I have a pretty good base form which to form my opinions.