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Connecting 2 computers to 1 printer

12 years ago

Have a Kodak ESP7 printer that I want to connect 2 Dell computers to. What is the way to do this the easiest?? Any help appreciated! Thanks

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Comments (7)

jemellin
Original Author
12 years ago
I am running Windows XP on both computers! They are close to each other.
pagogh
12 years ago
Easiest? Since they're close to each other, get a USB 2-port printer switch (search "usb printer switch") and two appropriate length USB A-to-B cables (or whatever the switch needs). Load the Kodak drivers/software on both PCs, and you're done. $20-30 depending if you have the right USB cables.

Yes, you can also take advantage of your wireless network, XP printer sharing, and a few other options, but without knowing more about your network, wifi setup, and/or your comfort-level for trouble-shooting connectivity issues, I'd stick with the switch.

Good Luck!
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Elmer J Fudd
12 years ago
If both PCs can access the internet, they're then already "networked". No reason to run a second wire.

Setting up a printer to share over your existing setup would cost nothing and take less than 5 minutes of time if you can follow instructions. I'd try that first before spending any money. You can use the "run extra wires" approach as a last resort if the easier/cheaper way doesn't work for you.

Post back if you'd like guidance, many of the folks here can give you the necessary instructions.
jemellin
Original Author
12 years ago
Snidely
Yes I would like some instructions and guidance on how to do this!
Thanks
Elmer J Fudd
12 years ago
Ha, no other takers.

Try the following. First, I'll assume the two PCs have distinct names and are connected to a router (any combination of WIFI, ethernet or both). Also I assume both have the needed drivers installed for the printer.

Pick one PC to be "home base". Connect the printer to it and then install the printer as a network printer as follows:

Control Panel
Printers and Faxes
Add a Printer
(Printer Wizard Starts)
Next
Choose "A network printer or a printer attached to another computer" - Then Next
Choose - Browse for a Printer - Then Next
You'll See the printer, highlight it. Next
Choose yes to "Do you want this as default printer"
Done.
STOP HERE

Before leaving this PC, go back to the Printers and Faxes page under COntrol Panel, Highlight the printer you just added, click on Share This Printer, then give it a name and then OK.

Go to the Second PC, repeat all the same steps. When doing Browse for a Printer, you'll see the printer on the other PC, choose that and continue until you reach STOP HERE.

You should now have a networked printer. If I goofed something up or it doesn't work, I'm sure you'll let me know.

Good luck.
jemellin
Original Author
12 years ago
Snidley
I will give this a try thanks!
jemellin
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks again snidley I got it running ok!!

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