can't get z-axis to work

I have a 3 axis stepper kit from Probotix . I used the config wizard and enabled the pins x,y, and z but the z axis stepper does not turn at all .The x and y axis steon what to doppers work great . I need some help I am new to this whole thing . I have the machine all built but this software part has me scratching my head on to do .

First things to do is figure out if the signals are sent out from the parport and/or see if the step drive otherwise works
Does the pin you designated for z actually make pulses? a multimeter or an LED could tell you that.
Does the z drive work if you connect it to the x or y pulse pins?
You say the z axis motor does not turn, but does it try?
The Z axis often has more problems because it is harder to move.
Maybe the motor/drive does not have enough power for the speed / torque you want.

Hi
I forgot to mention that all 3 axis work fine if I use Mach 3 as the controller software .

In the wizard, are you able to "test" the Z axis? Make sure you start with low numbers and work upwards.

How heavy is the Z axis also? How large or small were the settings you used in Mach to get the Z working?

The z-axis stepper is not connected to the lead screw yet . When I test the z axis stepper it loses the holding torque and is not energized at all .

So when you start EMC, the stepper is holding? Then when you test the axis, it loses torque?

Recheck your stepper wiring to make sure all are correctly wired.

Are the step and Direction pins for the Z axis set up the same as the X and Y axes?

Once you have checked the above and assuming same results, try inverting the step and direction pins in the pin setup menu.

If still same results, do as Chris Morley suggested and swap the Z stepper with either the X or Y axis connections. That will tell you if you have a bad motor (its possible).

Good luck.

If all axis work with Mach, and the only thing you change is the software ( to EMC ) then it sounds like
you may have configured the parport pins wrong. Confirm that the parport is configured properly in stepconf for the z axis
and confirm the signals are actually getting to the physical parallel port pins that are connected to the z axis drive.

Hi All
I have the z-axis working now .I had to enable pins 3 ,5 and 7 x,y and dirc. and pins 14,16 and 17 amp. enable . When I do this I can not test the y and z axis but the steppers will function right when using EMC 2 . I hope this is alright and does not burn out the system ?
Thank you for you help