I'm putting together a RF-45 conversion that already has a 2hp VFD controlled spindle. The VFD is a Delta VFD015E21A. I would like to get this machine to where I can rigid tap. So I've been researching and it seems that the VFD/motor combo is ok and I will need to add a braking resistor and tie an encoder to the spindle. Beyond that I have no further clue how to proceed. It will be a while before I am actually ready, but I'd like to at least start trying to figure this out. So to start I have these questions:

1. What PPR encoder should I be looking for? I'll be getting one with index.
2. So the encoder will take 3 inputs (A, B, Index). Correct?
2. How do I figure out what braking resistor I need to get and where are good places to get them?
3. Is rigid tapping do-able on a parallel port system or do I have to think about Mesa stuff? A single parallel port would have enough pins for my needs if I have everything above correct.
4. Any guides out there like "Rigid Tapping For Dummies"

Thanks.