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TICKET ARCHIVE -> Ethernet installation for a newbie

Graham Wright - Jul 14, 2008 - 5:25 am

I have a mix of Macs.
G3 running 8.5,
G4 running 10.3.9 and
G4 running 9.2.
All have ethernet slots.

What equipment and software do I need for them to talk together and share an HP laserjet 2300 please?

gsahli - Jul 14, 2008 - 9:59 am

If you also want to share internet access, get a router (get a wireless router if you'll get a laptop in the future). If not, get a 10/100 switch (10/100 refers to speeds). With a switch, you'll be setting up IP addresses manually. Ethernet cables go from computers to the switch or router.

Connect the printer directly to an OS 8/9 mac, not the OS X 10.3.9 one.
You'll need to install Apple Localtalk Bridge (control panel software from Apple) on the computer sharing the printer.

If the printer doesn't have a mac-compatible port (like localtalk), then buy a parallel port print server (HP ones are available for about $25 on eBay).

Is this making sense so far?