Order the computer new, and tell them what engine and what distributor and how many coils you are going to run. This way they will send you the right version. Also discuss with them what igniter you will run, or buy a MicroTech one. If you really get stuck, you can just phone MicroTech and have a chat with them. They are good like that.

You will also need a laptop with a serial port (Dell Latitude D series are great for this) as most laptops no longer have the serial port. Otherwise you can get a USB-Serial adapter, but it's a pain. Also you need the special MicroTech serial cable adapter for $120, because MicroTech are bastards for making you buy it.

You can use a MicroTech hand controller, but I hate them. I heard once that even the Lebs in Melbourne throw them across the workshop in frustration.