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How to set up 1 printer for 3 computers (Windows XP)

Discussion in 'Networking (Hardware & Software)' started by tanya, 2011/02/21.

  1. 2011/02/21
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi,
    I don’t know where to post this so I apologize if this is not the right forum:
    I have 3 computers:
    1. XP (home) SP2,
    2. XP (home) SP3, and
    3. XP Professional (up to date).
    A router (wired) D-LINK Ethernet broadband router: DI 704UP
    and
    USB hubs

    I have a Canon All in One Printer: Multipass PIXMA MP240 series.

    I want to use the 1 printer for the 3 computers.
    All of the computers are physically networked but not configured for network usage. (I don’t want to set up a network).

    What would be the easiest way to set up the printer to use on all 3 computers?

    Thanks!
     
    tanya,
    #1
  2. 2011/02/21
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    I am sure the answer will be to set up a network and share the printer :)

    Moved to Networking

    BTW - upgrade that SP2 computer to SP3 for your own security .....
     
    PeteC,
    #2


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  4. 2011/02/21
    ephemarial

    ephemarial Well-Known Member

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    Since you’ve already done the hard part (wiring) seems like easiest way is to set up a network. Really don’t have to share anything other than the printer. Makes it easy if ever have to replace the router.

    However "“ your router also doubles as a print server so don’t have to finish setting up the network if have reasons not to.

    Took a quick look at router manual, located here: dlink - maybe a little easier to use the router.

    You run the router server software on each computer to install and set up a port for the printer (connected directly to router).

    That does have an advantage. If choose networking method the printer needs to be connected to a computer.
    And that computer needs to be turned on.
     
    ephemarial,
    #3
  5. 2011/02/22
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hello ephemarial,
    Thank you very much for replying and for the link!

    Actually the hard part for me is finding the software...
    :)
    I have the DI 604UP D-LINK Ethernet broadband router as well - I just switched it for the 704 because the 604 warmed up a bit - maybe normal...
    I don't mind if the printer is connected to a computer and the computer has to be on (temporarily)
    Assuming I find the router server software I could network them later.

    If I find the 604UP software could I use it for the 704UP?
    Thanks again!
     
    tanya,
    #4
  6. 2011/02/22
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    I don't think I can although it *apparently* does have the system requirements:
    Celeron 2.93 GHz
    Total Physical Memory: 256.00 MB
    Available Physical Memory: 29.43 MB right now.
    Total Virtual Memory: 2.00 GB
    Available Virtual Memory: 1.96 GB
    HD (IDE): 86.19 GB; Free space: 60.55 GB
    Thanks!
     
    tanya,
    #5
  7. 2011/02/22
    ephemarial

    ephemarial Well-Known Member

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    The DI-604 doesn’t have a print server built in.
    So to use it the printer will have to be connected to a computer and the computers networked together.
    No big deal and doesn’t require any additional software.

    The DI-704 has a special USB printer port where the printer is connected.
    You then use the software – at same link – to set up all the computers to “talk” to it.

    That SP2 computer should be upgraded to SP3 if gonna be on the internet.
    I’d definitely upgrade that physical memory to at least 512MB – you’ll see a DRAMATIC difference in performance and speed. XP doesn’t run very well on 256MB and why they specked that is a mystery.

    This link to major memory maker will scan computer and let you know what can be done: Crucial memory
    If not sure what to do after going there get back with results along with make/model of computer.

    If not sure how to Network – just start a new thread asking for basic instructions on how to network XP computers.

    Many here have excellent instructions or places where can get them - very easy - really. :)


    ps: print server software for DI-704 is located at Dlink link provided. Click on additional downloads. It's last 1 listed. Save and then unzip it.
     
    Last edited: 2011/02/22
    ephemarial,
    #6
  8. 2011/02/22
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    It can be done 2 ways:

    1. Connect the printer to a computer & install the printer drivers. Repeat for other computers. The printer must be connected to the computer that is currently printing. Ypiu'll have to disconnect-reconnect manually.

    2. Set up a network. If you have a router then you already have a network!

    To use the printer with networked computers you must attach the printer to one computer and share the printer with the rest of the comps on the network, or you must use a usb to ethernet print server, in which case the usb printer cable connect to the print server and print server connects to the router.

    An inexpensive print server is the most reliable/stable method for what you want. If the printer connects to a comp then that comp must be ON in order for other comps to use the shared printer. If use a print server only the router needs to be ON.

    I've used the Netgear PS121v2 USB Mini Print Server for several of my clients.

    Which method do you want to pursue?
     
    TonyT,
    #7
  9. 2011/02/23
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thanks again ephemarial!

    I found the software but I assume the link you provided is better (up-to-date)...

    I am looking into this:

    It’s an HP Pavilion A1100N (almost 6 years old!)
    It currently has 1 chip: 256 MB DDR SDRAM (PC 2700) (Info from BIOS "“ setup)

    Crucial results:
    Currently installed memory:
    256MB
    DDR PC3200
    Each memory slot can hold DDR PC2700, DDR PC3200 with a maximum of 1GB per slot.

    Maximum Memory Capacity: 2048MB
    Currently Installed Memory: 256MB
    Available Memory Slots: 1
    Total Memory Slots: 2
    Dual Channel Support: Yes
    CPU Manufacturer: GenuineIntel
    CPU Family: Intel(R) Celeron(R) CPU 2.93GHz Model 4, Stepping 1
    CPU Speed: 2933 MHz

    I will do that...

    Thank you again for the help!
     
    tanya,
    #8
  10. 2011/02/23
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thank you for replying and for pointing out the difference.
    […]
    I have the print server router… (D-LINK DI-704UP)

    Method 2
    Thank you
     
    tanya,
    #9
  11. 2011/02/24
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    How to setup your network:

    1. install XP Service Pack 3 on all computers.

    2. follow the steps in this Microsoft guide:
    Set up your computer for home networking

    Do that for each computer and give each computer the exact same Workgroup name. The name can be anything you want and should be unique.

    How to install the printer on the network: (this is most all steps I can recall from memory)

    1. put the printer drivers on each computer, ready for use.

    2. connect the printer to the router usb port.

    3. on each computer, go to Control Panel > Printers & Faxes.

    4. double click the Add printer wizard and when prompted, select "local printer attached to computer ". DO NOT select Network printer!!!!!!

    5. Uncheck "automatically detect & install my printer > Next button.

    6. Create new port > standard tcp/ip port

    7. enter IP address of printer > browse for drivers when prompted.

    Note: if do not know printer IP address, access the router control panel using Web browser and view the table of connected devices.
     
    TonyT,
    #10
  12. 2011/02/25
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thanks for the reply TonyT

    2 of the *potential* networked PCs are Windows XP PRO.
    2 are XP HOME

    Hesitating (postponing) for the Celeron (2.93 GHz with 256 MB RAM) "“ until I get more RAM: I’ve scanned it on Crucial’s site and been in contact with them:
    Since the PC is almost 6 years old would you be able to advise on a memory tester (to test the current chip) or should I post in the H/W forum?

    Memory Testers Crucial suggests:
    http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp
    http://www.memtest.org/
    http://www.simmtester.com/
    I’ve only heard of memtest

    If the Celeron is only SP2, is this a security issue? If so, it would be stupid for me to include it for now since it could get infected and infect the rest?

    Also I have some questions:
    Aside from being able to use 1 printer for (actually) 4 computers, is there another advantage for networking?
    Advantages:
    Saving money on programs
    Transferring files
    Communication (but there is only me) and the PCs are all next to each other.

    Disadvantages:
    I don’t want them communicating: I need to be able to use 2 versions of 1 browser at the same time (without partitioning); for example: I.E. 7.x and I.E. 8.x concurrently.
    I need to be able to view several different sites at the same time.
    I need to be able to compare the same-named files at same time.
    I have different AVs on them intentionally: Could I still have that if networked?

    Also is a network like a chain: as fast (strong) as its slowest (weakest) computer (link)?

    If things went very wrong, could I remove the network (entirely) and be back to where I am now (and use a USB switchbox (if they exist))?
    Thanks again for the reply and the help!
     
    tanya,
    #11
  13. 2011/02/26
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    1. use SP3 for security reasons, computer efficiency, computer stability.

    2. porint server network printer advantages: stability, efficiency, easier to manage, does not depend on any computer, always turned ON and ready for use, to name a few.

    disadvantages: none really.

    3. On a network, by default, the only files that will be shared are the files in each computer's Shared Documents directory. No other files can be accessed.

    If use the router's print server then File & Printer Sharing can be disabled on each computer, it won't be needed, so no security risk there at all. And the Shared Documents folders won't be accesable by any computers.

    4. Each comp will operate at its own rates & efficiency. Networked computers don't affect each other's performance in your case. Essentially, you will have a network for the sole purpose of sharing an Internet connection and all using the same printer.

    A printer connected to the router print server is thought of as the 5th computer on your network, because, in reality, it IS a computer on its own.

    RAM:
    No need to test the current RAM. If it was not working properly then you would not be able to use the computer at all. Just buy the additional RAM.
     
    TonyT,
    #12
  14. 2011/02/27
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thank you very much for replying!
    Now I don't see any disadvantages.

    I'll upgrade first (memory, SP3) and then set it up (unless it is not essential to run SP3 right away?)

    Thanks
     
    tanya,
    #13
  15. 2011/02/28
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    TonyT,
    #14
  16. 2011/03/02
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hello and thank you for answering

    I only need to install SP3 on 1 computer (XP home) after adding RAM.

    Question:
    I have the one router (wired) D-LINK Ethernet broadband router: DI 704UP.
    Is it possible to network two computers only, but still have the 3rd (SP2) using the same router?

    The two I want to network are entirely up-to-date.

    1. Dell Dimension E520 "“ It is profiled on the board although I do not see a link to it (Here is a manual link)
    http://www.windowsbbs.com/profile.php?do=extra

    2. The other is *new*: Dell optiplex 720 Windows XP Professional SP3 with all of the updates (Trend Micro Internet security Program version: 16.60; engine version 9.2.00 Pattern version: 7.867.)


    I.E. could the SP2 use the same router without being on the network?
    If so, I guess it could not be the computer that the modem directly connects to (which it is right now)?

    If it is possible to physically network only the two (up to date Dells), is it also possible for them to *share* information temporarily while I transfer files to the *new* one and after that "separate" them? (So they are not sharing drives etc.)

    Thanks!
     
    tanya,
    #15
  17. 2011/03/03
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    To answer your question, "Yes, it's possible to do that. "

    However, lets handle the printer first and then start a new thread about "Temporarily share files" or similar wording.

    And, please don't take this the wrong way, but don't dilly dally, just install XP Service Pack 3 on that other computer!
     
    TonyT,
    #16
  18. 2011/03/04
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thanks for replying.

    Correction: (From my last post March 2nd, 2011)
    It is a 780 not 720 (FWIW)

    I have to delay everything because the *new* Dell is noisy and gets warm: Therefore I am troubleshooting possible overheating issue…
    I had meant to include the printer in the post "“ not just temporary file sharing.
    I’ve heard that SP3 can cause problems when installed on older computers so that is why I have held off…
    I don’t know whether this is the case…?

    Unless I hear otherwise, I will keep this thread active?

    Thanks again
     
    tanya,
    #17
  19. 2011/03/05
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    False data that you heard.

    Celeron 2.93 GHz is not that old & will handle things well. A Celeron 400 GHz would have issues unless configured properly. I've had XP with SP3 running just fine of some computers you'd likely throw in the trash!
     
    TonyT,
    #18
  20. 2011/03/06
    tanya

    tanya Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi and thanks

    Okay ... so I'll install SP3...

    *If there are issues is it possible to revert back to SP2?

    *The link you gave me: Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for IT Professionals and Developers is for multiple computers on a network.
    I only need to upgrade one XP Home computer: Is there another link?

    *Is there a "light" version or a trial XP3 package??

    *Should I be posting on the XP forum about the SP3? (Or is it not such a big deal?)

    BTW another reason to upgrade to SP3 recently noted:
    The windows search function (on SP2) does not work for "a word or phrase in a file" The MS KB article states to upgrade to SP3...
    WRONG:
    :)
    I have a 14 year old IBM Aptiva I worship (and other "younger" ones) ... I don’t throw them out
    Thanks again!
     
    tanya,
    #19
  21. 2011/03/06
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    Just download from that link, it's the standalone version that can be saved for future use, or use on other computers. Don't let the name confuse you.

    Then let's get the printer issue solved.
     
    TonyT,
    #20

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