Posted by sjp on 8/13/09 3:28am
Msg #299684

Any recommendations on a print server? n/m

Reply by PAW on 8/13/09 7:57am
Msg #299692

Re: Any recommendations on a print server?

What kind of print server are you looking for? What is your need and expected result? It's like asking "Any recommendations on a vehicle?" Depending on your needs and desires, will determine what print servers might be recommended.

Reply by sjp on 8/13/09 11:17am
Msg #299743

Re: Any recommendations on a print server?

I have 2 desktop computers and 2 printers. Each desktop has a printer. 1 printer is black and white and the other is color. I also have 2 laptops. I would like to be able to choose which printer I would like to print from both desktops and laptops. Thanks for your help.

Reply by RickinVA on 8/13/09 12:19pm
Msg #299760

Re: Any recommendations on a print server?

Here are some thoughts: If you have a wireless router, and you use Ethernet cables to connect the printers, just install the printer drivers on each computer. If you don't have a wireless router and wireless printer, you may be able to get by with a wireless print server, but the desktop probably won't be able to use it, unless it has a wireless card. Maybe more info would help. Ask here, or ask me directly.

Reply by RickinVA on 8/13/09 12:32pm
Msg #299765

Re: Any recommendations on a print server?

Durn Gremlins! I lost this post and thought it was gone, so I reposted!

Rick

Reply by RickinVA on 8/13/09 12:30pm
Msg #299764

Re: Any recommendations on a print server?

Might need more info, but here are some thoughts. Do you have a wireless router? Do the desktops have a wireless card? Do the printers have wireless capabilities? You may not need a print server if the printers are wireless OR you have a wireless router. If you would like to discuss this further, contact me. I just set up a network with 2 laptops (w/wireless cards) and a desktop (w/o one) I hate having to have the desktop running if I want to print on a non-networked printer.

Rick

Reply by PAW on 8/13/09 1:05pm
Msg #299774

Networking fundamentals and essentials

Sounds like you need a good home/office (SOHO) network that will allow each device (PC, Laptop and printer) to function independent of each other.

First, you may want to go through the Home Networking Guide interactive planning tool. It's free and pretty good. http://compnetworking.about.com/od/homenetworking/Home_Networking_Setting_Up_a_Home_Network.htm

Or, if you want to jump directly to adding a print server that will service both printers, then you need to look at the various options. I recommend the HP Wireless G Print Server (Q6301A#B1H). Easy setup right out of the box.

Reply by sjp on 8/13/09 3:19pm
Msg #299831

Re: Networking fundamentals and essentials

Thanks for your input. What is the difference between the HP Wireless G Print Server (Q6301A#B1H) you mentioned and the Netgear & Linksys Wireless G Print Servers.

FYI, both my printers are HP's. I am not sure if that makes a difference.

Reply by sjp on 8/13/09 3:26pm
Msg #299834

Re: Networking fundamentals and essentials

One more question, will all computers (desk tops and laptops) have the capability from printing from either printer? I noticed that some of the print servers have 2 or 4 inputs.

Reply by PAW on 8/13/09 8:37pm
Msg #299888

Re: Networking fundamentals and essentials

Put all your devices (PC's, laptops and printers) on the router. (Note, some printers already are network capable. HP network ready printers have an "n" suffix.) Each device will have its own IP address and will be directly addressable on your LAN. Be sure you set your router up properly so people on the internet (WAN side) cannot connect to the printers on your intranet (LAN side).

Yes, some print servers will support multiple printers. I've never used one that has that feature.

Reply by sjp on 8/14/09 4:51pm
Msg #300065

Re: Networking fundamentals and essentials

Thank you for your help!