We have an multifunction-scanner/printer/fax that is connected to USB to a PC. I wanted to connect it to the router to be possible to be used by everyone without having to power on a mother computer. Anyone knows any cable for that?
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You need a print server, not just a cable (unless your device has one built-in, but then it would also have an ethernet port). Available in different forms from small router-like appliances to full-blown computer-based servers.
With multifunction devices you can also run into trouble with advanced features like scanning or faxing depending on the software... make sure to check for compatibility with both the printer and print server manufacturers before buying anything. -
If the printer has an ethernet (NIC) card built in then you will just need an ethernet cable connected from the printer to the Router so the printer can be shared through the network to each PC.
If the printer is not network ready; (doesn't have an ethernet port) then your stuck with USB and having to keep the "mother" computer on AFAIK.
EDIT: ^^^ Right above, a USB to ethernet Print server should do the job. I forgot about those...don't have any hands-on experience with them though.
Any USB to Ethernet device?
Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by Bullit, Dec 3, 2009.