how to connect printer via ethernet cable with no router

[rdsigrist]

I have a LaserJetprinter with a bad USB port, and I want to connect it directly to my laptop using the ethernet port. Since there is no internet at this location, I have been using the USB port.

If I connect the printer directly to my laptop what type of cable do I use (crossover?) and what kind of port settings do I use (TCP/IP?) and how do I set this up correctly?

 

[Dave Atkin]

Hello,

The easiest thing to do would be to but a small 5-Port switch. The newer ones are auto-sensing so you can use either a crossover or a stright through cable.

If your PC doesnt get an IP address from a DHCP Server like a router then you will need to assign a static IP address (i.e. 192.168.0.1). You will then need to set a static IP Address on the printer which is in the same range (i.e. 192.168.0.2).

How to set a static IP on Windows 7 (Steps 6 to 10) :
Setting a Static IP Address in Windows 7 - PortForward.com

Hope that helps.

Dave

 

[rdsigrist]

I understand how to determine the IP address of the HP CP1518ni using the front panel.

Can I simply use a crossover cable to connect the printer directly to the laptop? Once connected, I should be able to manually set the IP address to anything I want to. Then I can use the Add Printer command to select the driver and make a port assignment (not sure how to do this).

Can I use a crossover cable instead of a switch? Is there such a thing as a single port switch?

 

[Dave Atkin]

You should be able to use a crossover cable yes. If you have the printer manual it should say in there which cable it will need.

I havent heard of a single port switch but a budget 5-port can be bought for less than £20.

You would add the printer through the add printer wizard.


Dave

 

[Vincenzo]

I recently connected an HP printer directly to a computer using a standard ethernet cable.

When I installed the hp software, I told it the printer was on a network. I don't remember if I let it search for it, I suspect I gave it the IP address from the front panel menu on the printer.