What Hardware is Needed to convert a Machine?

This depends largely on the type of signal the axis drives will accept (step & direction vs.
analog), the number of I/O points and their type (digital vs. analog), and the maximum
desired signal frequency. Chapter 4 of the “Mach3Mill Install and Config Guide” discusses
the hardware used in a typical Mach3/parallel port controlled machine (the short version: if
the machine does not utilize a standard breakout board and motor drives that take step and
direction for input, it will probably require a complete retrofit).