Parallel Port MIDI interfaces in Windows 2000 / XP.

First, you need to get into your computer's BIOS. You'll need to reboot (or turn on) the machine. Immediately when you see the bootup logo or memory/hard drive check, press the appropriate key (which varies from computer to computer - check your computer's documentation if you're unsure) until it enters the setup. This will be before Windows boots, and typically it only waits for 1-2 seconds for you to press the key. The most likely keys are DEL, F1, and F2, but could also be any of the F-keys (you can usually press multiple keys at the same time if you're unsure.) Within the BIOS, you should select Integrated Perhiperals. If you don't see this option, try Advanced, and within this menu, look for I/O Configuration, Perhiperal Configuration, or something of the like- it varies from system to system. This is where you'll need to check/change the parallel port mode. Then follow on-screen instructions on how to exit and save changes.

* If you do not have EPP mode as an option, there are several things to try. Check to see what the I/O address of the printer port is (in BIOS), it should be 378. If not, EPP mode may be unavailable. Also, performing a BIOS update (from your motherboard manufacturer's website) can yield extra features and settings. Some computers simply do not have this mode. In this case, you may need to try several settings, but Bi-Directional is the second-best option.

Then, back in Windows, Right-Click MY COMPUTER, select PROPERTIES.
Select the HARDWARE tab, and DEVICE MANAGER and go to Ports (COM & LPT).
Double-click on Printer Port (LPT1) (It should not say ECP), go to Port Settings, select Use any interrupt assigned to this port and Enable lagacy plug and play detection, hit OK.

Legacy SoundBlaster emulation:
It is known that many Soundblaster cards will share the parallel port IRQ without telling you.
Right-Click MY COMPUTER, select PROPERTIES.
Select the HARDWARE tab, and DEVICE MANAGER and look for Creative Misc. Devices.
If found, double-click anything that says Legacy Emulation, and checkmark the Disable. Hit OK.
If not found, check in your Sound, Video, and Game controllers for anything that says Legacy Emulation or Legacy Audio and disable that.

Reboot, and your MIDI device should work.