I think I'm not alone with my LPT-port problem because there is a long story on how to set up an additional working LPT-port at: http://www.keysoftservice.ch/pport_config-e.htm
My computer has an Intel ATX motherboard and both my laptop and desktop are working well with external CDR-writer throug LPT-port and with all modes (ECP, EPP and bi-dir). The problem is not in the LPT-port but in KeySoftService's LPT-driver! (I have designed systems working with bidirectional data communication using the 'new' LPT-port's biderectional properties - there has been no need to use external cards)
I'm still waiting for a new driver program for my HD-AE5000 manager. - Matti