anyone know how to check and see if the ecu is working properly.

 

If you have a noid light, you can check the ecu signal to the injectors. That's pretty much the only way I know of to check the ecu on the zx. I'm not saying it is the only way, just the only way I know. You can get the noid light on loan from an autoparts store. You just plug the one that fits your injector wire clip and if it flashes while you're cranking the engine the signal is good.
You could also use a voltmeter to see if any of the other sensors are receiving any voltage, should be around 5v I believe to the sensor from the ecu.

I don't know if you've tried any of this, but if not, I hope it helps.
I posted a response in your 'technical thread too about ignition modules.