Multiple Same Name Printers

I need to LAN more than 1 printer with the same exact name such a "Sales"(custom program requires it). Windows has a problem when it already finds the first printer name on the LAN and says it's already in use. Standard IPv4 setup, no active directory. Any ideas appreciated!

 

The name really should not matter. What is essential is the IP addresses be different. You need to look into the properties of each device and make sure they are using a different IP address.

That said, I don't believe you can have the same computer use both printers with that custom program. It would not be a problem with Word, other programs, or even Windows itself. But if this custom program calls to the printer by name only, then I believe that computer can only use one of those printers. In other words, you would need to have each computer that runs that program setup to use just one, or the other printer.

I am not 100% positive about that, so maybe someone else might have a viable solution. But I fear your custom program is your problem, not Windows.

 

All my printers get a different IP's (DHCP or static). Keeping that in mind, Windows 7 will not let me rename a 2nd printer the same name as another on the same LAN.....

 

Try renaming the printers "Sales1" "Sales2".

 

point of sale program won't like that and won't print.......

 

Then your only option is to contact the author of the 'custom program'.

 

I agree.

 

I could create a separate subnet and put the PC's and 2nd printer on that, but that involves adding a router

 

This may actually work:
http://www.myfmbutler.com/en/products/printerswitch-plug-in/5

 

You can buy a cheap router for a lot less. Assuming you have more than one computer, you are looking at €209, at least for that PrinterSwitch program.

 

Turn off discovery, so you can add them manually
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/185237-network-discovery-turn-off-windows-7-a.html

Aslo there is a gpedit
https://social.technet.microsoft.co...printer-in-add-printer-wizard?forum=w7itproui