Ok here is the situation. Please try and help. and no im not upgrading my windows 98 comp to XP.

I have a Windows 98 Computer connected with a HP Photosmart 1100 Printer through a usb connection. I then set up the printer as sharing and a network printer. Here is where the problem lies:

I have a notebook and desktop running windows XP. I connected the HP to both as a network printer. The printer only WORKS when the Computer with Windows 98 (The one with the printer attached) is on. How Can I print from my windows xp computers right to the printer on the windows 98 computer, without the windows 98 computer being on. Thank you.

 

if the printer in question is hooked up locally via usb, you can't. the 98 machine will always have to be on in order to print to it. a true "networked" printer is connected directly to your network via cat5 cable/jet direct and is managed through a print server

 

He is correct. No can do boss.

 

You could use a parallel cable and a print server to network you printer. Print server being a Hp jet direct, a router with a parallel port on the back etc...

 

Agreed

You can always get a new router that allows for your USB printer to be hooked up and truly networked. I was unable to find the one with a USB printer hookup, but they do exist. Here is one that uses a parrallel to centronix hookup. http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/def...spx?EDC=454031

 

They make less expensive things than jet-direct cards. JD cards usually only fit in larger bulkier laser printers.