I have a MacBookPro using BigSur and when away from home need to print in a place without internet connection. I can't find a lightweight printer that supports BigSur and connects via USB. I found a Canon Pixma but the set-up comes via CD which is no help. Does anyone know of a printer that would work for me please?
MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.13
Hello,
It ought to be possible to use a small travel router for this (perhaps something similar to TP-Link TL-WR802N/WR902AC?). You do not even need to connect it to the Internet. The interesting part is the local Wi-Fi network (WLAN), not the WAN. The idea is to connect an AirPrint-enabled printer (About AirPrint - Apple Support) and the MacBook Pro to the network provided by the travel router. Then you would not have to install additional drivers from the printer manufacturer. Which Canon model did you have in mind?
Hello,
It ought to be possible to use a small travel router for this (perhaps something similar to TP-Link TL-WR802N/WR902AC?). You do not even need to connect it to the Internet. The interesting part is the local Wi-Fi network (WLAN), not the WAN. The idea is to connect an AirPrint-enabled printer (About AirPrint - Apple Support) and the MacBook Pro to the network provided by the travel router. Then you would not have to install additional drivers from the printer manufacturer. Which Canon model did you have in mind?
Yes, if a router is capable of handling Bonjour (most modern routers are), AirPrint should work. An AirPrint-enabled printer and the computer must be connected to the same network (subnet). A travel router can act as a Wi-Fi hotspot (WLAN). Some travel routers/personal hotspots provide a built-in mobile broadband (4G or 5G) modem for the Internet. Others (like the two aforementioned models) can use an external Internet (WAN) connection, if necessary. If you just want to print (locally, via Wi-Fi), the Internet would not be needed.
The printers that work via a cable (USB) are still there. The problem is that USB printers require drivers, and many printer manufacturers do not provide drivers that are compatible with macOS. This is where AirPrint can help. No additional drivers needed (if a network connection is used).
My mind is boggled by AirPrint. A techie friend tells me it won't work in the house I'll be visiting due to lack of wifi / internet / phone connectivity. I've had a couple of printer suggestions from Apple but both seems reliant on wifi hotspots. I don't think I'm prepared to buy another printer based on hopefulness rather than a definite 'yes, it will work' (I've just had to send one back to Curry's). Oh, for a printer that will work via a cable between laptop and printer. Ah, those were the days.
Thank you for your suggestion anyway.
It used to be so simple. Connect printer to computer via cable. If only I hadn't ruined two portable printers by allowing the ink to dry when I got home.
But perhaps a travel router might help....
Thank you
You're welcome!
Without Internet Connect ! that will eliminate AirPrint printer from the mix. Then, one would not even need to purchase a printer and carry it around.
Check with Canon for the specific model of printer you have found for downloadable Software Specifically for Big Sur Software. If they do have it - a CD Software is not required.
even if it comes with a cd then that is not required you can just get their drivers for their website
PIXMA Printer Support - Download Drivers, Software, Manuals - Canon Europe (canon-europe.com)
if the printer has support for big sur of cause
Printing without internet availability
