[kwlug-disc] Print server.

[Chamunks Arkturus]

 Apparently I've fallen asleep at the Thread Wheel.  Ok theres a HP
DesignJet 750c (a parallel port plotter), HP DesignJet 500(USB), Then there
are several non plotter printers, HP OfficeJet Pro k8600 (Prints 11x17),
K8500A (wifi capable printer that prints 8.5 x 11's) Then finally there is
a Brother DCP 7020 (that also does 8.5x11's)

All in all these need to all be set up to be network printers.


What kind of plotters? I do not know how plotters talk to computers
> either, but maybe you could describe the current setup and give us
> some clues?
>
They are basically just like printers most of them can do USB (preferred)
but there is one plotter thats still running on a parallel port which the
machine they are printing through currently does already support.

Also currently they are connected to an array of different machines the
wifi enabled one works fine for the most part but unifying things is always
good.  The two plotters are hooked up to a terminal that isnt used by
employees unless they are walking across the office to go print their
drawings at that terminal via sneakernetting it to and from the print
computer plus hes paying for a CAD software license and everything on that
machine also.

I have used such a print server to drive an old parallel-port printer.
> It worked pretty well.
>
I've wondered about driver support I was at a computer store asking this
same question and the fellow there had mentioned using the HP print servers
work really well but with a price tag of 80$+ gets kind of steep seeing as
we already own a computer for it.

Also I'm not really sure what to charge for this so if theres any shoe in
advice on that part it'd be interesting to see where the general
perspective sits these days.

Talk to your local e-recycler and pick up an HP jetdirect print server.
>
Would you suggest the fellow in the KWArtzLab building on Brightupt?  Even
the working center maybe?  I know that you can buy Dlink ones but Dlink
consumer stuff can be pretty dodgy iirc.


The other option is a Raspberry Pi. But that's one you'll sink some time
> into, but it should be fun.
>
Only problem with a raspi is it covers no Parallel port and the back order
is unbearable.  I really do wish to get my hands on one or two of those
suckers for sure though.
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