[ourmoneypit]

I thought I read about this, but I can't find it now.

We have a PC, and a MacMini on the same network. We're having issues getting decent printing out of the MacMini on the printer attached via the PC. We also have music on both, and photos, that we would like to be able to store centrally.

I read of a storage device that would attach to the router, and could also be a print server, shared by both. Can't find it now. Was I dreaming? Can this be done?

TIA
Martine

[dafogle]

WAKE UP ... WAKE UP !!! lol..... seriously .... You're not dreaming ... such devices exist .... they are often referred to as a network storage center. Here's an example of one (note ... I do not have this and am not endorsing this device ...) Also - I'm not sure where this one plugs in since it operates over a wired or wireless network.

http://shop2.outpost.com/product/410...H:MAIN_RSLT_PG

Hope this helps you find what you're looking for!! There are many other companies that make these devices...

Doreen

[Tigratrus]

Sounds like a file and print server. I know Windows NT used to have support for Mac file and print services but I don't know if that's still there in Win2K and 2003 Server. Sounds like you're thinking of a standalone system though? Do you recall any of the details? I wouldn't think it would be too hard to implement, but I can't say as I've ever seen anything just like that... Might be worth a phone call to retailer like Compusa? They might be able to point you in the right direction.

[ourmoneypit]

Doreen,

That is exactly what I read about, likely a different brand, though, because the Buffalo doesn't ring a bell.

They connect directly to the router, so you have access both through wired and wireless connections.

At least now I know what to look for. Thanks.

Martine

[owens_dad]

Your Mac can act as the file and print server, servicing the PC on your network (it speaks Windows file services, SMB/CIFS natively). And I know from experience -- I support 95 computers in my university department -- that the configuration is easier on the Mac than it is setting up your Windows machine as a file/print server.

Here's how you do it:

1. Attach the printer to your Mac.
2. Turn on Windows Sharing and Printer Sharing (In the "Sharing" pane of system preferences.) Make note of the address your Windows computer will use to access the shared folders on the Mac. You'll have to enable an account for the Windows computer (there's a button on the same pane to do that.)

That's it.

That will allow Windows users to access shared folders on the Mac, and will allow them to print to the shared printer as well. If you need additional storage, buy a USB 2.0 or Firewire Hard Disk, connect it to your Mac, and share that.

Network attached storage will work, but why not just let your Mac serve as print and file server for your network?

[ourmoneypit]

Hmmm...thanks for the suggestion. I think we'll try that first and if it doesn't address the issues, then we'll try the separate server.

Martine