Can I Make an USB Printer Wireless?
- A wireless printer adapter joins your wireless network after being connected to the printer via the USB cable, and it has an additional port allowing it to be connected to a computer for configuration purposes. Alternatively, adapters are available to allow communication with a printer via Bluetooth. Both types of adapters are priced similarly.
Bluetooth adapters have two significant disadvantages compared with wireless adapters. The first is that Bluetooth has a shorter effective range: about 10 meters, compared to the 40 to 45 meter range of a wireless adapter. Secondly, many computers do not have Bluetooth adapters, which would result in additional money spent. However, Bluetooth can be a viable option for homes using a wired switch to share an Internet connection rather than a wireless router. - For greater flexibility and less wires, purchase a wireless router with a USB port for sharing a printer. The Apple Airport Extreme is one of the most popular routers for this purpose, although there are many other options available. Some routers with USB ports can only be used for sharing an external hard drive, so check the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing. While a router with printer sharing may cost more than a wireless or Bluetooth adapter, there would also be a speed benefit in purchasing a new router if your current wireless network operates using the wireless B or G standards. New routers generally use the wireless N standard, which is considerably faster.
