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Problems in using a shared network printer

Posted on 04/08/2007 8:37:43 PM PDT by rudy45

I have a network that uses a Belkin router. One desktop computer is connected via ethernet cable to the router, and also has a Canon MP500 printer connected to the computer via USB. This desktop computer has been set up to allow sharing of the MP500.

A second computer, a Toshiba laptop, has been able to print to the Canon via the shared connection. Now, however, it cannot print. When I try to print a Word document, I get the message "Windows cannot print due a problem with the current printer setup."

When I go to the printers page of the control panel of the computer from which I want to print, I see that the icon for the printer on the remote desktop doesn't have the "outstretched hand" beneath it.

I deleted this icon and tried to add it. When I tell the system I'm attaching a network printer, and to browse for the printer, the resulting list does show the desktop and the Canon printer. However, after I connect to it, I still don't see the outstretched hand. In other words, the laptop, during printer setup, does see the printer on the desktop system. However, it can't access that printer.

I just deleted the printer from the desktop, then had Windows autodetect it again. I went in and set the printer up for sharing. However, even though I also delete the printer from the laptop, and reinstall it, I still can't use it. Thanks.


TOPICS: Computers/Internet
KEYWORDS: computer; network; printer

1 posted on 04/08/2007 8:37:46 PM PDT by rudy45
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To: rudy45

I’d love to help you, but I am on the canon printer web page getting political advice.

.....Bob


2 posted on 04/08/2007 9:12:43 PM PDT by Lokibob (Some people are like slinkys. Useless, but if you throw them down the stairs, you smile.)
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To: rudy45

It sounds like your computer network has more conflicts than a priest at a Boy Scout Jamboree.


3 posted on 04/08/2007 9:15:07 PM PDT by Lokibob (Some people are like slinkys. Useless, but if you throw them down the stairs, you smile.)
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To: rudy45

Are you logged in?


4 posted on 04/08/2007 9:30:20 PM PDT by JRios1968 (Tagline wanted...inquire within)
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To: rudy45

Get a print server.

It’s a device that is USB on one side, RJ45 on the other, so it connects up to your network like any other device.

You usually have to load software on one of your PCs for it...

Then your printer will have its own IP address just like your PCs do, and you aren’t stuck with having to use that gawdawful Windows File and Print Sharing, which is another of the myriad security holes which plague that operating system.

If you’re short on network ports, you can also get a 5 port switch very cheaply.

Hope this helps.


5 posted on 04/09/2007 3:47:19 AM PDT by George Smiley (This tagline has been Reutered. (Can you tell?))
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To: George Smiley
Get a print server.

Good advice. But with one caveat; be danged sure that the print server you buy is guaranteed to work with your specific model of printer.

I too used to be able to share my printer with all nodes of my network.
That is, until Windows decided I didn't need that functionality anymore. Since then it has decided not to play ball and will not respond to any of my ministrations to get sharing enabled again. I am well versed in the art of PCs and networking but this has stumped me for a long time.

I decided to get a print server but found out after my purchase that it was not compatible with my model of printer. Nor was any other print server. Back to square one.

So, be sure to check compatibility before buying.

6 posted on 04/09/2007 7:27:31 AM PDT by Bloody Sam Roberts (Don't question faith. Don't answer lies.)
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To: Lokibob

That’s funny, Bob!

But I do enjoy these computer threads at FR...I’ve learned alot.


7 posted on 04/09/2007 9:50:31 PM PDT by Cedar
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To: Bloody Sam Roberts

These days, the printer may be cheaper than the printserver.

:-)


8 posted on 04/11/2007 7:54:01 PM PDT by George Smiley (This tagline has been Reutered. (Can you tell?))
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To: George Smiley
These days, the printer may be cheaper than the printserver.

True dat. So far, the only print server I've found that is compatible with my HP Photosmart C4180 is a $600 model from HP.
Feh. Email and ftp are cheaper.

9 posted on 04/12/2007 7:01:07 AM PDT by Bloody Sam Roberts (Don't question faith. Don't answer lies.)
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