How Does a Printer Server Work?
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A printer server is a dedicated computer or device that manages the printers on a specific network. Most printer servers provide connections to the actual printing devices through a LAN connector and one or more physical ports, such as a parallel, serial, or USB port. In order to run properly, a printer server must be connected to a network, at least one printer, and one or more client computers.
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Once it's connected to the above mechanisms, a printer server must obtain the necessary information from the network, use the printer's memory to arrange the various print jobs, and then route them to the proper printer.
Printer servers supply printing protocol conversion, meaning files sent by client computers are translated to data that will be accepted by the printer. Thus, a printer server allows different network protocols to be used at the same time, regardless of the operating system.
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Effects
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Designed to provide an effective networking solution, printer servers can be shared easily and used by all computers on the Local Area Network. This means that users aren't required to sit right next to their printer with a short cable plugged in. Printer servers are also the perfect solution for consumers with a limited budget and workspace. For example, instead of purchasing individual printers for each employee, a business office can use one printer server, since it will recognize numerous devices on the same network. Another benefit of a printer server is that it offers a quick and simple installation process. You can add a new printer to your network in a matter of minutes, without having to reboot the entire system. All in all, printer servers reduce system loading, improve printing performance, and save users a great deal of money.
Installation
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Most printer servers are fairly easy to install and configure. Unless your instruction manual tells you otherwise, you can install the printer server by attaching a USB cable to the printer's USB port and connecting the other end of the cable to the USB port on the printer server. Next, plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the router and the other end into the printer server's Ethernet port. Finally, connect the power adapter to the appropriate socket on the printer server, and then plug the other end into an outlet.
Configuration
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Once you've properly installed the device, configure both the main computer and the client computer(s). To configure the main computer, turn on your computer, insert the installation CD and click Setup Wizard. At this point, you'll be able to name your printer server and acquire an IP address automatically, or manually select a fixed IP address if you prefer. Then, you'll be prompted to install the driver. Select Yes and follow the on-screen directions. Next, set up the printer by double-clicking Printer Driver Setup in the window that opened. Again, simply follow the on-screen instructions, which will guide you through the driver setup process.
If you want to allow other computers on the network to use the printer server, you must complete a similar installation process on each client computer. For the most updated configuration information, visit the manufacturer's website or the Troubleshooting section of the user's guide.
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