Just point to the right queue
Recent updates around here left me in a quandary. What to do with computers that can no longer print, due to the particular constraints of my print server. Here’s the list.
– too many computers, running Windows XP, Windows 7, Linux
– a wireless print server, purchased because it allows attachment of two printers
– an inkjet printer with a parallel port
– a laser printer with a USB port
– too few hours in any given day for problem resolution
My print server, a WPS870G from Motorola has kept us satisfied for several years now, but the box is obsolete, discontinued, orphaned by the manufacturer. That means no new driver software for those who adventure into new OS territory. I’m stubborn (and frugal) so I wanted a solution, not a reason to buy more equipment. While talking with a friend who moves problem solving to a higher level than I, the one-handed typing with a phone cradled against my ear was enough to keep me on task. No shirking the problem.
And there is a solution. A simple one, once you know what to look for. The limiting factor seemed to be Windows 7 support, so why not look for a hint among the competition (both OSX and Linux)? This model of print server does support IPP and LPR protocols; I’ve used LPR at work. Just remember to name the queues according to the strategy chosen by the engineers at Motorola.
Step 1: make sure that the printers actually work. No sense in frustrating yourself unduly.
Step 2: define one print queue at a time.
Step 3: get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids (no wait, that one is for the flu).
In Windows 7, create two new printer ports. Both ports use standard TCP/IP protocol, but you will add custom settings. That is, use LPR protocol and name the queues L1 and L2 respectively. Here’s a screen shot sequence, for those who want to see what I’m doing.
I was surprised that the solution didn’t require anything that wasn’t already available to me. No driver downloads, no stress, no false starts. Even though one of our computers is using the 64bit version of Windows, this works. Order has been restored in the universe.
