Imac as printer/internal network server

[disconap]

Hi all. Ok, We've got an imac that hasn't bee turned on in three weeks. It's going to waste, so we thought why not set it up as a print server/in-house document server. Can this be done either using airport or ethernet (via a firewalled DSL modem/router)? Eventually we'd also like it to host our phone services as well (not really a problem from all accounts), but I'm basically looking for the most efficient way to set this up...

 

[rhoydotp]

i have mine setup as a print server for a usb-connected hp printer. i have my work laptop & (dare, i say) windows machine printing thru it ...

 

[disconap]

That is EXACTLY what I need, down to the printer (an HP 2200 laserjet)! How did you configure your set-up?

 

[rhoydotp]

i'll let you know once i get home. it's all windows crap in this place

 

[disconap]

Cool, very much appreciated. Right now (due to our USB extension cable getting chewed to shreds), we're doing the usb jump drive between machines thing, which is a pain in the ass...

 

[rhoydotp]

i'll be assuming that you have the printer already set on the mac.

share the printer
- go to system preferences
- select Print & Fax
- clink on the sharing tab
- check the checkbox to share the printer of your choice

enable printer sharing (lpd)
- system preferences
- select "Sharing"
- On the "services" tab, check "Printer Sharing" (this will also enable firewall ports)

configure on the client (PC)
- from the start menu -> Settings - Printers & Faxes
- on the left-hand side, click on add printer
- add a Network printer
- Choose: Connect to the printer on the internet ...
- Type:
http://xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx:631 (where xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx is the IP of your MAC)
or
http://machinename:631 (if you have name resolution enabled)

that's it, i think. hopefully this helps. let me know if it doesn't work for you.

have fun!

 

[disconap]

Hey, it worked! Rockin, thanks man!