With this few number of machines (Macs), I would suggest you consider
LocalTalk as the networking option. PhoneNet boxes are available through a
mail order place like MacWarehouse in lots of 10 for $9.95 each. This
option would allow you to share a networked printer.
You will need a dedicated file server only if you have files you want to
share. There is also the option of using one of the computers on your
network to share a few files. How do you plan to use the network? The
answer to this question will guide your decision for whether or not to buy
a file server.
You need to plan for about 5 minutes per machine to set up the network. It
will take about 30 seconds to "install" (actually, just plug in) the
network box, about 60 seconds to string the wire to the next machine, and
about 2-3 minutes to select the networked printer through the Chooser (if
you include Mac startup time).
The main negative to this solution is that it isn't as fast as EtherNet. If
you're talking about a few Macs and one printer, this speed difference
won't be very evident.
Hope this helps some,
Fred
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| J. Fred Schouten, Ed.D. | http://isbe.state.il.us/~peohs |
| Director of Curriculum and Technology |e-mail: fschoute@isbe.state.il.us |
| Peotone Unit District #207U |----------------------------------|
| Peotone, Illinois, USA 60468 | Phone: 708-258-3236 |
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