Fastest connection for new HP OfficeJet Pro 8500?

Montalvo · #1 10-21-2009, 08:10 PM

I just bought an HP OfficeJet Pro 8500 to replace an old OfficeJet connected to my desktop via a parallel cable. My wife's networked computer could access the old OfficeJet over the network and I'd like her to be able to access the new one, too. But under the old arrangement, my computer would have to be booted up for her to have access. Now I have a number of connections options and I'd like some advice on which would be best.

The 8500 offers three connection options: ethernet, wireless and USB. I don't have a wireless router so I've kinda ruled out that option. If I connected it to my computer via USB, she could access it as she did before, with my computer turned on. But I could connect it to the network with an existing data switch, giving her access even if my computer is turned off. My only concern is whether such a connection would necessarily slow the connection for both of us down to a crawl.

Any thoughts or suggestions? Or do I just have to try both methods and test the connection speed? (I hesitate doing that because I'm afraid I'll create all kinds of problems with my network connections by doing and undoing.)

Thanks,

Bob

cszeto · #2 10-23-2009, 06:17 PM

With the exception of a poor wireless connection, both the Ethernet and USB communications standards are faster than most of the fastest printers.

Montalvo · #3 10-25-2009, 11:52 PM

Sounds like I can go either way so I'll use the data switch to enable my wife to get printer access without my computer being on. Thanks a bunch!

cszeto · #4 11-05-2009, 04:14 PM

Most business environments will utilize the on-board Ethernet (when available) to share a printer.

Montalvo · #5 11-05-2009, 08:27 PM

I've had the printer plugged into a data switch and have found the speed to be great. In addition, allowing my wife to access the printer without my computer being turned on has been even more convenient than I had anticipated.

Thanks again for the advice.

Bob

cszeto · #6 11-11-2009, 06:24 PM

No problem, the Ethernet route is one of the latest printer sharing technologies, so it does tend to work best in most situations when compared to the other methods discussed across this thread.