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General discussion

Adapt standard USB printer into a wirless printer?

Sep 6, 2009 9:24AM PDT

I have a standard USB printer that I would like to adapt to becoming wireless. That being said I don't think theres a simple way of doing so. I could connect it to a hub and then access it that way, but the problem is it doesn't have a network port just the USB one. I know theres USB wireless adapters for laptops and the sort but somehow I don't think that would work for a printer. Anyways, just a couple thoughts. I figure I'd post here and see if someone has any simple solutions, thanks.

Discussion is locked

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Sorry. No simple solutions.
Sep 6, 2009 10:12AM PDT

I own a pair of WGPS606 USB print servers but setup can stump the best of folk. I also own a pair of GMFPSU22W6 (see google) but again I would not call such things simple. At least they are made.
Bob

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Better off...
Sep 6, 2009 10:57PM PDT

Just buy a wifi type ptr. and then worry about connection issues. It would lend itself to work via the wifi rather than some adapter kit, etc. that alone could be an issue. These things get into deep water far too quickly for the avg. user. Plus, it maybe a wash as the price of ptr. and adapter maybe on par or close to it. The ptr. you buy should provide some basic details on connection issues and/or help guide, etc.. Let's not forget the whole "networking" thing as well besides any wifi. I think you see where this is going. Wink

tada -----Willy Happy

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Yeah, but...
Sep 7, 2009 6:56AM PDT

I like my printer a lot, hence why I don't want to get a wifi version. It does a great job and I don't see the point in spending the extra money. So I may just do some searching for a cheap USB server. Thanks.

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Are you changing your goals?
Sep 7, 2009 7:21AM PDT

The models I noted were 20 to 25 bucks when I bought them but you asked for "a simple way" which is where I find all such devices to fall short.
Bob

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Google away
Sep 7, 2009 10:03AM PDT

Use keywords, "printer wifi adapter" or "USB adapters". It has to be an USB device adapter to begin with. Once you find such an item, verify what's in the kit, like s/w, h/w and manual/instructions, etc.. Please, don't settle on the cheapest one out there. Now, I can't recommend anything because I don't recommend this type of setup. I think once you have this in hand and start the process, you'll become keen on this topic. Look at these websites for possibles:

http://www.newegg.com
http://www.geeks.com
http://www.usbman.com
http://www.dlink.com/corporate/worldwideoffices/?redirect=%2fdefault.aspx
http://www.buffalotech.com/products/wireless/
http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=printer+wireless+adapter&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=3134976231&ref=pd_sl_8ps1fn191o_b

Of course, pick what you want. You will need to create a network, so be prepared to do so. Ensure you have a secure setup once all done.

tada -----Willy Happy