Printing in another building...

[Bluenoser337]

I have a WIndows 2000 system that automatically produces a report on a local (default) printer, once a day. I would like to change this to print 800 feet from the PC. I can run ethernet cable indoors for about 200 of the 800 feet but the rest of the distance is outdoors (to another building). Running a cable is not an option. I was wondering if I could use an ethernet equipped printer and some kind of wireless ethernet link across the 600 ft outdoor run. The PC does not have internet access. Any suggestions? Thanks!!

 

[xwb]

You could try modem dialup through internal phone system.

We had to do that in one of the cable stations over 20 years ago because the terminals were too far apart for RS232.

 

[Bluenoser337]

actually xwb, we are doing that now...but really want to have auto printing via ethernet. thanks!

 

[IRstuff]

So, is the new printer on a network now? If so, then you should be able to configure an access point to your computer, with maybe a couple of relays to the other building, that would latch onto the remote printe server.

If you have IT guys they should be able to do that. Otherwise, you could probably try the geek squad from Best Buy or similar.

TTFN

FAQ731-376

 

[ScottyUK]

600' in open air is well within range of a point-point link using directional antennae.

Hirschmann's offering:

http://hus.hirschmann.com/English/i...cts/product-overview/wireless-lan/index.phtml

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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[melone]

Wouldn't it just be easier to get network access to the remote computer / other building?

 

[xwb]

You could try one of those N1 wireless routers. If the specs are to be believed, the range is up to 1600' but I don't know what the transmission rate is at that distance. They claim 300Mbps but many of the tests show that at 200', it is already down to 30Mbps. A printer is a lot slower than that so you might be OK. You might have to fork out on boosters too.

 

[mikek10]

What about printing it to a fax modem so it automatically transmits to a given fax number?

 

[Bluenoser337]

mikek10....how do you print to a fax modem? What settings would you use? Is it like setting up a normal printer? Thanks! This sounds like a more economical way to go.

 

[mikek10]

Take a look at

http://www.d-a-l.com/articles/library/154.html

 

[ScottyUK]

Wouldn't it just be easier to get network access to the remote computer / other building?

and

Running a cable is not an option.

Appear to rule out a cabled network solution, so a wireless solution of some form looks the best bet. A directional antenna will almost certainly needed because of the low transmitted power on the license-free GHz bands.


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[Bluenoser337]

"What about printing it to a fax modem so it automatically transmits to a given fax number?"

mikek10....I think this would be perfect but I can't find a way to send a fax this way without user intervention. I can print to fax but I have to manually go through the send fax wizard to complete the process. Do you know how to make this automatic (to always simply send the fax to the same number)? Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[mikek10]

What software are you using?

Take a look at

http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms693466(VS.85).aspx

Alternatively you can use send keys to mimic keypresses.

 

[richs]

Hiya-

It's a *LOW PROBABILITY* solution. You might check the power into the two buildings. If there is no transformer between the two sites, you *MIGHT* want to see if there are still any bridges that implement a LAN network via the power lines.

*I HAVE NOT USED THEM MYSELF*. But it's worth a shot.

Here's one that came easily to mind while doing a google for [power line lan]

It is designed for home networking. Hence, it most likely will not pass the signal through a transformer. Here is a link that reviewed one product:

http://reviews.cnet.com/bridges/linksys-plk200-powerline-av/4505-3304_7-32313519.html

Again, I have no personal experience with this. My problem was solved with an 802.11b bridge when I was researching the stuff I wanted.

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Rich S.

 

[GonzaloEE]

I'm not informed on the last on power line carrier. Some vendors claim they may offer up to 14MBps through the wall outlets, though when your signal reached into the other building it will be highly attenuated by surge filters and other protections.

You'd rather go wireless. Good luck!