OSX can
print to many different kinds of local and network printers: USB,
IP, AppleTalk, etc. On this page we'll explain how to configure an IP
printer in OSX. An IP printer is one that prints the jobs over the network
using the Internet standard IP protocol. The printer itself (the hardware
device) has to be able to use the IP protocol. Some older Apple printers
are not able to do that even though they have an Ethernet interface.
They can only print using AppleTalk protocol. Few InkJet printers are
capable of IP printing if used with an appropriate print server box,
an optional device that allows you to hook up a non-networkable InkJet
printer to an Ethernet network.
You need to request an IP address for the printer just as you do for a computer
by filling the form on this web
page.
There is no universal way of finding out the printer's hardware address.
Here are few tips:
Most printers are capable of printing a test page with all printer's technical
information. The procedure varies between brands of printers. In case od newer
HP printers use the Menu button on the printer's panel to go
to the Information menu, then use the Item button
to select Print Configuration and press the Select button
to print the page and the printer will produce two or more detailed information
pages. Look on the first page under JetDirect EIO section for Hardware
Address. If you have an older or other brand printer check the manual,
if you still have one, or check the vendor's support web page.
If the printer is still in the box you may be able to find the hardware address
on a specs label.
On some printers there may be a sticker on the back near the Ethernet port with
the Hardware Address.
Once you've submitted the IP request form wait 24 hours and reboot the printer.
Wait at least 5 minutes (!) and print the test page again. If you print the test
page too early it may not have all current settings information! On the same
page where you found the hardware address you should now see an IP address under Protocol
Information (HP Printer) , Network Settings or whatever
it may be called. It should start with 10.160.x.x. for the Skirball Institute.
You will need this address to configure the printer according to the instructions
below.
Under OSX you have to use the Print Center utility to add new
printers of all kinds. You will find it in /Applications/Utilities folder.
If you're configuring Splash you have to download Splash
printer descriptions installer first. Run the installer and just follow the prompts.
The Print Center utility must not be opened when you install printer descriptions!
Mac OSX comes with many descriptions preinstalled but it's possible that if you've
bough a new printer its descriptions, i.e. drivers may not be installed on your
computer. In such case you will need to install them as well. Even though new
printers come with installation CD we recommend to visit the manufacturer's website
and look for updated printer drivers rather than installing those that came on
a CD since quite often they're several months old. |
