4-bit parallel connection problems

I am having problems getting my parallel cable to connect to my Compact Presario 1070 Laptop. I have gone to various sites and found the necessary cable wiring diagrams. My cable checks out with Ohm meter but will not connect. Is there any computer changes I need to make. I also made a serial cable and it works fine but is very slow. I wanted something faster. Can anyone help with this problem. I have spent many hours trying to figure this out. Has anyone done this before? Thanks for any help you can give me.
Scott