Win98- --XPpro question

Using NetGear router, set up Win98 desktop and XPPro laptop. HP
LaserJet printer is USB connected to desktop. The desktop is in my
office at the end of a hall and the laptop is about 30 feet away at the
other end of the hall.

Have no problem making using DSL internet connection on either
computer - even when the desktop is not turned on. But that is the only
operation I've been able to share. Last week my son stopped by and was
able to get the laptop to print a file on the LaserJet - but had to be
sure the printer was turned on first. (When I need the printer from the
desktop, the computer turns the printer on as soon as I send something
to print).

Since I didn't make him write down each step as he accomplished this
print job, I'm not sure how it was done (believe from the laptop screen
he went to Client network and brought up the printer icon.)and I'll get
those details from him. He did tell me that this could not be
accomplished unless both computers are on.

How is it that the Laptop can access the Internet whether or not the
Desktop CPU is turned off - but cannot access the printer under the same
circumstances? Will this be true of all functions (other than internet
access) - will need desktop (main computer) on always in order to share
files from the laptop. and vice versa?

Molin Vardo

If the printer is plugged into a computer that is turned off, then there is
no way for any communication to reach the printer.

If you want to print to a printer plugged into a PC, that PC must be turned
on. Otherwise you must purchase what is called a 'print server' and plug the
printer into that, instead of a PC.

Carey

"Molin Vardo" <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
news:406f105f$(E-Mail Removed)...
> Using NetGear router, set up Win98 desktop and XPPro laptop. HP
> LaserJet printer is USB connected to desktop. The desktop is in my
> office at the end of a hall and the laptop is about 30 feet away at the
> other end of the hall.
>
> Have no problem making using DSL internet connection on either
> computer - even when the desktop is not turned on. But that is the only
> operation I've been able to share. Last week my son stopped by and was
> able to get the laptop to print a file on the LaserJet - but had to be
> sure the printer was turned on first. (When I need the printer from the
> desktop, the computer turns the printer on as soon as I send something
> to print).
>
> Since I didn't make him write down each step as he accomplished this
> print job, I'm not sure how it was done (believe from the laptop screen
> he went to Client network and brought up the printer icon.)and I'll get
> those details from him. He did tell me that this could not be
> accomplished unless both computers are on.
>
> How is it that the Laptop can access the Internet whether or not the
> Desktop CPU is turned off - but cannot access the printer under the same
> circumstances? Will this be true of all functions (other than internet
> access) - will need desktop (main computer) on always in order to share
> files from the laptop. and vice versa?
>
> Molin Vardo
>