Will Mach3 run on  Windows 2000. I ask this because I can buy several laptops cheaply on e_Bay, but the cheaper ones run Windows 2000. I only need this to actually run the lathe, my development work will be done on my other desktop computer, and the programs transfered by Lan.

Jim.

2000 is fine, it could be the laptops that cause you problems.

Graham.

Yhanks for the swift reply - in what way could they be a problem - processor speed or memory - or what???

Jim

Laptops can do funny things with the processor speed to save battery life, also they tend to run the parralel port at 3.3 volt against 5 volt on desktops.

The graphics cards are poor too, causing very slow and unpredictable results.

Graham.

Thanks Graham -

I'll watch for that. I hooked up the laptop top to my wireless lan last night, and downloaded Mach3 onto it. I downloaded a couple of turning files I had on the main computer, and ran them on the laptop with the stepper motors attached and they seemed to run alright. I should be ready to attached the motors to the lathe today - and we will see how we go on.  If I have to buy a second hand desktop then so be it.
Thanks again for the input.

Jim