Skip to main content
Table of Contents

Printer Setup and Connectivity Guide

This guide provides detailed instructions for connecting and configuring your printer using three primary methods: USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi Direct. Follow the steps below to ensure a successful setup and troubleshoot common issues.

NIr Malchy
Updated by NIr Malchy

This guide provides detailed instructions for connecting and configuring your printer using three primary methods: USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi Direct. Follow the steps below to ensure a successful setup and troubleshoot common issues.

🔌 Printer Connectivity Options

Printers can be connected in three main ways. Note that some models may have limitations, such as lacking Wi-Fi or Ethernet ports. Always check your printer’s specifications before proceeding.

🖥️ USB to Computer

Overview

This is the quickest and most reliable method, where the computer acts as the host and manages the print queue.

Setup Process
  1. Connect the printer to the computer via a USB cable.
  2. Ensure the printer is powered on and communicating with the computer.
  3. Install the necessary drivers (communication software) for your printer.
Limitations
  • Drivers may become obsolete, corrupt, or incorrect, disrupting communication with the computer.
  • Mac computers require a third-party application called CUPS, which may be unreliable and infrequently updated.
  • Drivers are typically written for PC-based operating systems, which can cause compatibility issues for Mac users.
Troubleshooting
  • If the printer is not communicating, check for outdated or incorrect drivers and update them from the manufacturer’s website.
  • Test the connection by printing a test page (see Post-Connection Steps below).

🌐 Ethernet to Network Device

Overview

This method connects the printer to a network device (e.g., router, switch, or firewall) via an Ethernet cable, allowing the printer to receive an IP address and communicate over the local network.

Do you need to subnet your router? Follow these steps.
Setup Process
  1. Connect an Ethernet cable from the printer to your network device (typically a router).
  2. The printer will receive an IP address, either automatically via DHCP or by assigning a static IP address (recommended for consistency).
  3. Verify the connection:
    • Open a command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Mac).
    • Enter the command ping xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (replace with the printer’s IPv4 address).
    • A successful ping indicates the printer is connected.
  4. Check for indicator lights on the Ethernet port:
    • Green light = connection.
    • Yellow light (flicker) = data transfer.
  5. Add the printer to the facility’s printer list in Flourish (refer to the relevant help documentation).
Benefits
  • Bypasses the need for the computer to act as a host, avoiding operating system compatibility issues (e.g., Mac-specific problems).
  • More flexible for network-wide access.
Considerations
  • If using DHCP, a power outage may result in a new IP address being assigned, potentially disrupting connectivity. Use a static IP address to avoid this issue.

📶 Wi-Fi Direct

⚠️ Ensure your printer supports Wi-Fi connectivity, as not all models have this feature.
Overview

Some printers support Wi-Fi connectivity via a mobile app, allowing wireless communication without a direct cable.

Setup Process
  1. Download the printer’s mobile app and follow the setup instructions provided.
  2. The phone acts as the host until the printer is assigned an IP address on the network.
  3. Once the printer has an IP address, add it to the Flourish facility settings as you would for an Ethernet-connected printer.
  4. Follow the post-connection steps outlined for Ethernet connections.

✅ Post-Connection Steps

🔌 For USB Connections

Test the Connection
  • Print a test page from the printer properties menu on your computer.
  • If successful (a label with text prints), the printer is connected.
  • If unsuccessful:
    • Blank Pages: Likely a driver or firmware issue. Download the latest driver or firmware update.
    • Small Text: Verify DPI settings in printer properties.
    • Garbled/Nonsense Output: Ensure the printer is configured as a raw printer and supports ZPL.
    • No Output: Confirm the QZ Tray application is running and connected in Flourish.
Flourish Integration
  • If no output is produced in Flourish, verify that QZ Tray is active and properly configured.

🌐 For Ethernet Connections

Locate the Printer’s IP Address
  • Check the printer’s control panel under “Print Properties” or “Printers and Scanners” in Windows.
  • Or log into your router → device list.
    • Default login credentials:
      • Login: admin
      • Password: admin
    • Change these credentials for security.
  • Identify the printer’s local IP (usually starts with 192.168).
  • ⚠️ Do not use a public IP (often starts with 10).
  • For advanced users: configure a static IP in router’s subnet settings.
Test the Connection
  • Ping the printer’s IP address from command prompt or terminal.
  • A successful ping confirms connectivity.
Flourish Integration
  • Add the printer’s IP address in Flourish facility settings.
  • Test printing from Flourish.

📶 For Wi-Fi Connections

Complete App Setup
  • Use the printer app to connect the printer to Wi-Fi and assign an IP address.
  • Add the IP address to Flourish facility settings (same as Ethernet).
Test and Troubleshoot
  • Ping the IP and test print jobs from Flourish.

📌 Additional Notes

  • Always consult your printer’s manual for model-specific instructions.
  • For Flourish integration help, refer to the linked documentation.
  • If issues persist, contact the printer manufacturer or your network administrator for advanced troubleshooting.

✅ By following these steps, your printer should be successfully connected and ready for use in your facility.

How did we do?

Example Guide: Subnetting a Router for 250 Local IP Addresses with Static IP Assignments

Flourish Software Cannabinoid and Terpene List

Contact