A network (or networked) printer is not connected directly to any particular computer.  It is instead connected to the local area network (LAN).  This means that any computer on the network can send print jobs to the network printer.  The printer is effectively shared by all the computers.

The advantages of this arrangement are:

• there are less printers to maintain and look after
• a better printer with better print speed is usually affordable
• no computer needs to be left switched on just so other users can print.

Network printers can be any of these sorts of printer:

• black and white laser printer
• colour laser printer
• colour inkjet printer

If you ask the Telematics Centre to propose a network printer we will first clarify your requirements, including:

• whether a colour or black & white printer is suitable
• if A3 paper size will be required or if all printing is to be on A4 size paper
• how many computers will be printing to the network printer
• your approximate budget.

Once these requirements have been clarified we will provide you with a written quotation (usually by email) covering the whole job.  When we have received your approval we will then:

• order the necessary hardware (usually HP or Kyocera);
• sometimes carry out initial setup of the printer at the Telematics Centre;
• physically install the new printer at your premises on your network in an agreed location;
• install the printer to any server so that the server manages the print queue;
• install the printer to each computer on the network;
• test and confirm everything is working;
• hand over any manufacturer driver and support disks to your staff onsite;
• document the work in our detailed documentation on your computer installations.

We take care of all parts of process for you, leaving you to enjoy your new network printer.

Cost:  Telematics installation charge for a network printer is usually £ 100.  Printer hardware costs extra but re-charged to you at cost only.