[olePigeon]

I finally found a solution to allow our new computers to print to the god forsaken LaserJet 3600 printer. I've installed some extra AirPort Extreme base stations I had to work as an intermediary, and it does actually work. The computers are able to print.

However, a bug I've known about for some time is now preventing me from successfully using this workaround.

If I add a printer while on ethernet, it can't print to said printer when I'm on wireless. If I add the printer while on wireless, it'll be able to print on either wireless or ethernet just fine.

I can't see the Bonjour printer on the wireless subnet. If I try to add the printer by typing in the IP in the LDP field and selecting the correct printer driver, it just simply doesn't print. If I add the printer via Bonjour when the ethernet plugged in, it can't find the printer while on wireless.

Any suggestions besides buying new printers?

[olePigeon]

According to a Windows tutorial, you assign the IP address port 9100 or 9101. How do you assign a custom port number when adding a printer in OS X via IP address? 1.1.1.1:9100 doesn't work.

[ghporter]

So far it looks like you're breaking ground with this. I would have said "use a colon and the port number" but as you've found that doesn't work, I don't know what to do next. Tried Apple's forums?

[olePigeon]

I found a solution. HP owes me $20,000 in consulting fees.

To print to a LaserJet 3600 or 2600 from a newer Mac using 10.6, you must do the following:

Step 1: Install Foomatic HPIJS drivers
Step 2: Get an AirPort Express or equivalent print server
Step 3: Connect the printer via USB to the print server, and connect
Step 4: Go to Print & Fax, then click the + button to add a printer
Step 5: Select HP Jetdirect - Socket for the protocol
Step 6: Enter the IP address of the printer server, followed by a colon and the port number (9100 or 9101)*, i.e. 1.2.3.4:9100
Step 7: Name the printer, then click on the Print using: drop down menu
Step 8: Select the Select Other Printer..., and choose the appropriate HPIJS driver.

* To determine the correct port, open Network Utility in the Utilities folder. Click on Port Scan. Type the IP address of your print server, then check the Only test ports between... and enter 9100 and 9101. It will report back the open TCP port.

This works across subnets.

[-Q-]

Well done.

[olePigeon]

Now I have to figure out why the HPIJS for the LaserJet 3600 shows up on some machines, but not others.

[olePigeon]

I just noticed that the latest release of HPIJS doesn't have the 3600 anymore. I'm destined to never get these printers working.

Now to find an older version.