Is it possible that a Sony PC desktop and a Laptop from Sony can share one HP printer? If so, what is the correct connection to use to share this? Or must I download certain software so that both computers are able to talk to the printer?
You can do this several ways. The simplest route would be to set up the printer on the desktop, and share it to the laptop. This would require the desktop to be on and running Windows whenever the laptop needs to print. It would also require both computers to be on the same network, whether you have DSL or not. Alternatively, if you don't have a router but do have Ethernet ports on both computers, you can connect them directly to each other with an Ethernet crossover cable, readily available at computer/electronic stores. Regardless of how you connect the computers, the key is that the desktop will act as a host for the printer, and the laptop will print to it as a 'shared' resource. If you're using Windows XP or Vista, you have all the software you'll need. Assuming that's your environment, here's the basic drill in setting it up: On the desktop: 1. Enable basic file/printer sharing on the desktop if it isn't already 2. Install the printer on the desktop as a local printer (i.e. on LPT1), again, if it isn't already. 3. Right click on the printer in 'Printers and Faxes' and share the printer On the laptop: 1. 'Add printer' in 'Printers and Faxes' 2. Select 'a network printer' then 'browse for a printer' on the next panel. Desktop must be on as well as printer, and you must be able to see the desktop on the network from the laptop ('Network places' for instance) 3. Select the printer on the desktop and add it. The driver is installed from the desktop- you don't need a disc or to do a download. If this step is successful, you're done. Another way to go is to buy a print server like HP's Jetserve. But with the cost of decent inkjet printers under $100 you would probably be better served just buying a second printer if you are unable to go the network route.



Keywords: Printer Sharing

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