Hello .. I'm new to this forum .. and nearly as new to CNC

I've just acquired a 3040 Mill and I'm planning the computer hardware I will need to drive it whilst I make the PCB's using Circuit Wizard & Mach3 that I need for my new hobby - Electronics.

The desktop in my workshop is a Genie Mini running Win 7 64 bit, no issues but no parallel port.

I'm looking at another machine which is 3.6 Gb; 4Mb RAM 32 bit in an industrial SS case which has big advantage that it could be bolted to the underside of my workbench -space is very much at a premium - and operated from my existing desk using a 2 port KVM switch.

My concerns .. .. 1. New machine has been formatted and loaded with Win XP SP1 .. .. does the Microsoft withdrawal of support for Win XP mean that it will not download upgrades - SP2 etc ??
2. If I re-format and load with Win 7 Pro .. .. will that recognise the parallel port OK

As I seem to be going tound in circles, any other suggestions that don't involve a cliff edge or the fast lane of the M1 would be appreciated

Thanks
S