Cannot use printer via usb
I need to get my Macbook Air to print via USB. I am going to be at a remote location with my printer, but no Wi-Fi.
I have the printer attached via a USB cable. This is the error I get:
Any ideas?
Question marked as
Hi,
You do not mention the macOS version.
Do you have an appropriate driver (from the printer manufacturer)? With a USB connection, drivers will be needed.
Add a printer to your printer list so you can use it on Mac – Apple Support (UK)
Reset the printing system on your Mac to solve a problem – Apple Support (UK)
It would probably be correct to assume that you have used AirPrint earlier with a Wi-Fi connection. The Epson WF-3540 is listed in About AirPrint - Apple Support as a supported model. An AirPrint-enabled model can be used without having to install additional drivers, provided that the printer and the computer are connected to the same network (Wi-Fi router).
In case a downloaded driver still will not help with the USB connection, there may be a workaround:
Could you possibly find an old/spare Wi-Fi router of almost any make/kind/model at the remote location (thrift shop, et cetera)? If so, such a temporary router may be used instead (for printing purposes, using AirPrint). Internet via this router is not needed, so you could just disregard any WAN connection. Only the local network side would be of interest. You do not even have to connect the printer via Wi-Fi. The WF-3540 has Ethernet, so one of the LAN ports of a router could be used, if you so wish. AirPrint works with either a wireless or a wired (Ethernet) network connection.
There are also special travel routers (TP-Link TL-WR902AC is just one example without mobile broadband).