How to Turn a Non-Bluetooth Printer Into a Bluetooth Printer
By Andrew Mikael
Bluetooth connectivity allows devices to interact and share information wirelessly through individual connections. Although not all printers come with Bluetooth technology built in, any printer can take advantage of Bluetooth connectivity using a Bluetooth adapter. These small additions to the printer's hardware connect without installation and broadcast the printer to Bluetooth-enabled computers and other devices. Use a Bluetooth adapter to connect a printer to multiple computers, or simply reduce the cord clutter around a workspace.
Purchase a Bluetooth adapter. Ensure the adapter has connectors compatible with the printer. Most printers will connect to an adapter with a female USB connection.
Connect the adapter to the printer and turn it on if necessary. Ensure the printer and connecting devices are within the stated connection range for the adapter.
Turn on Bluetooth for the connecting computers and devices. On a Windows computer, open the "Control Panel" and select "Bluetooth Devices." Ensure the "Turn discovery on" and "Allow Bluetooth devices to connect to this computer" options are enabled. In OSX, open the "System Preferences" window and select "Bluetooth." Press the "Turn Bluetooth On" button.
Locate the printer in the list of available Bluetooth devices. Access this list by clicking "Add" in the Windows Bluetooth settings panel, or by clicking the "Set up new device" button in OSX. Depending on the device, you may need to enter a passkey before creating a connection.
Access the printer from a program with printing capabilities or from the system's list of connected devices.
Tips
- You can use a printer with a Bluetooth adapter even if the printing computer system has no Bluetooth hardware. Separate USB adapters work with the computer as well, and give the system wireless Bluetooth capabilities.
Warnings
- Even with an established Bluetooth connection, many printers must be installed on a computer system before operating correctly. Insert the installation disc included with the hardware or download the software from the manufacturer's website to install the printer on a system.
Writer Bio
Andrew Mikael began writing in 2010. His articles appear on various websites, where he specializes in media and related technology. Mikael has a Bachelor of Arts in film from Montana State University.