Is it feasible to use a laptop as a print server (this of course means it is always on – or at least during the day)?
If so is there a way of allowing the laptop to continue running when the lid is closed?
In case you are wondering why I am asking the question, there follows a description of my situation.
I currently have small wired/wireless network. I have two USB printers connected to the main desktop. Even though this is the nearest machine, it still requires a cable run of 10 metres. I use an active cable and tried various combinations of hubs, but there are still times when the printers suddenly go offline, but remain switched on. Having tried all sorts of things to overcome this problem, I have come to the conclusion that running USB cable all the way is not going to work in the long run.
I have looked at print servers and network hubs such a Belkin and Netgear. It seems for all of them they risk not working. Now I have a spare old laptop. It is small enough to place near the printers and being wireless it can connect into the network easily and therefore provide connectivity of these printers through its usb ports.
Incidentaly neither of the printers has direct ethernet connectivity.
TIA
