I was wondering if I could get my 2nd computer hooked with the printer without using a printer server? What I mean is like now my printer is only connected to my main, and I would like to have the second computer to be able to use the printer without me turning on the first computer and have it printed out.

Kindly advice

Cheers

Then what you need IS a print server! You just don't want one of your computers to act as one. And that is wise because then you don't have to leave your sharing wide open, and as you note, you don't have to have one computer up and running for the other to print.

What we need to determine is how your network is configured now. How do you connect to the Internet? Do you have a router? What connections does your printer use?

Also, understand that some printers, and multifunction devices (printer/fax/scanner/copier) do not always play well on networks - they usually print, but may not communicate well with the users, or allow advanced features.

See here for ideas.

Yeah, I have a modem/router which comes with a 4-port switch. Linksys AG241 to be precise. - My printer is Canon PIXMA IP1600 which uses USB port that connects to Computer A.

Here's my configuration :

Modem/Router Port 1 -> Computer A -> Printer
l
Port 2 -> Power Plug -> Computer B

Hope you understand

This post has been edited by Conspire: Aug 9 2008, 06:16 AM

You can pick up a USB 2.0 dual port switch and use it to switch the printer between two computers, runs around $20. For about twice that you can pick up a print server which is really a better solution.