Wireless Printer Setup?

[thefarmer]

So my in-laws got us a new printer (HP Photosmart 4750) that can be hooked up and print over a WiFi network.

Being completely clueless these days, can someone clue me in on what I need to buy for my computer to get this to work?

I assume I need to buy some sort of wireless router-type thing that I need to hook to my computer somehow, but what type/cost should I get? And if not that, then what?

Any help would be appreciated.

[kgolfer]

Wireless router, linksys makes some user friendly ones.

WRT54 or WRT120, depends if you have a newer or older modem (G or N).

N is newer technology.

AK

[thefarmer]

Meh.

So I need to buy a wireless compatible modem too? I can't juse use the motorola -whatever roadrunner gave me?

[kgolfer]

If you have a laptop you will need a wireless card or wireless usb modem to be able to use the wireless router.

If it is a desktop the modem that was supplied by roadrunner will work. You wireless router will get hooked in between your roadrunner modem and computer.

AK

[thefarmer]

Just a standard out of the box desktop pc

[kgolfer]

I was editing my response when you posted the answer to my previous question.

[kgolfer]

Also, you don't have to hook up the printer "wireless".

Most can be hooked up like any other printer to your computer. You would most likely get better performance out of it hard wired.

AK

[thefarmer]

Ok, cool, so I can just pick up a linksys wireless router, jack it into my cable modem and follow the instructions given for each? Seems easy enough.

Yeah, normally I would just plug in the usb cable, but my wife wants to get a laptop at tax time and she wants to be able to print from that too. Plus she mentioned wanting to print pictures from her phone and digital camera without plugging in cables (which would come later).


edit: Also, thanks for the help answering my, I'm sure stupid, question.

[kgolfer]

Welcome, hope it helps you out.

AK

[kgolfer]

Also, just something you might consider.

If you are considering purchasing a new laptop, look at getting the "N" technology router. It broadcasts at a higher speed and distance.

The wireless router has nothing to do with you desktop computer if it is hardwired. So again if your setup from your roadrunner modem to your desktop is working now, it will continue to work when you hook up the router.

AK

[Mr. Dallas]

The printer may also have a network port in the back since it is wireless - you could also simply hook a cat5 cable from this port directly to your router and now your printer is networked. Just load the printer driver software up on any computer you want to use the printer on.

D.