Do I need a router

georgemcghie

I have an oldish desktop PC that I had built to a fairly good spec and I am very happy with it until I can afford to replace with a laptop. My internet connection is via a modem and cable to the BT line.
I am just about to get a new Canon Pixma 560 all in one printer scanner copier which can be connected via USB or WiFi. What do I need to do with my PC to allow it to print to my new printer by WiFi. Can I plug something into my PC which will allow it to work or do I need to do that and get a router? I have no other PC's in the house and only need to use it from one room.

Many thanks to any boffins out there

cyberbob

Just connect to your PC via USB and print directly

AHAR

You could look in the printer's instruction manual (downloadable from Canon website no doubt) and see if the wireless function supports ad-hoc.
This is when 2 wireless devices communicate with each other directly without the need for a router. You'd just need a wireless adapter for your PC then.
If that's a no-go I noticed this wireless modem-router going cheap. If you bought that you'd need an Ethernet cable to connect it to your PC to it if you didn't do it wirelessly. It sounds like you've currently got a USB broadband modem?

davb

You can usually print direct to a wireless printer using what is termed ADHOC wireless networking. You will need some sort of wireless adaptor for your PC (assuming it doesn't have one) - these can be either internal PCI or external USB (easier to fit). It's not going to just work out of the box, I think you will have to do some tweaking to get them to talk - but there are plenty of people here who will help.

Bikertov

You would only need a router to connect muliple PC's to the Internet.

If you are just looking to print, then what you need to do is set up a wireless network. In your case, this could be as easy as a USB wireless adapter that would 'see' your wireless printer - as suggested by davb above.

I'm being a touch simplistic, but it should only be a bit more than a wired local network.

georgemcghie

Daveb Bikertov AHAR and Cyberbob
Many thanks for the info I am going to give ADHOC a go. When I eventually get my laptop I may have to bite the bullet and buy a modem if I want to use the laptop in the garden (assuming global warming comes to Scotland). The Main thrust at the moment is trying to cut down on the number of cables which is driving my OH nuts

Many thanks guys