Networking expertise

**sandmanmac** · 09-18-2014

Hi guys/gals

I need your expertise/ advice on what mat be a stupid question.
A customer of mine just moved their machine MP C2500 and called me in to re-connect it. I discovered that they damaged the TCP/IP port insides and I can't get a connection. I tried for about an hour to straighten out the 'prongs' (or whatever they're called) inside it with no luck.

I'm pretty decent at connecting stuff and setting up small Workgroups, etc., but honestly, my comprehension of how all the data is transmitted is really quite a mystery to me. That's the REAL IT people's jobs

So here's my question: Can I use the USB port with one of these print servers below (or similar) and simply configure it as I would normally? I'm not concerned about printing issues, it's the SMB scanning that I'm having doubts about.
My gut tells me it's a no-go, but I'd appreciate any feedback.

If not, I guess it's new Controller time for them

. That puts the cost up!

For more info:
Buy the Iogear GPSU21 USB 2.0 Print Server at TigerDirect.ca

**blackcat4866** · 09-18-2014

I don't see why not. I've installed plenty of similar devices, usually in cases where the enduser has multiple networks, and requires multiple network interfaces. =^..^=

**slimslob** · 09-18-2014

Printing should work fine. If I remember correctly, the MP 2500 does not support USB scanning, or if it does, it is only TWAIN scanning from the computer connected to the USB.

If you are good with a soldering iron and the damage is only to the connector, you might be able to replace the CAT 5 connector on the board. Bear in mind that the board is most likely a multilayer design with plate through holes, so unsolder very carefully.

**blackcat4866** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by slimslob

Printing should work fine. If I remember correctly, the MP 2500 does not support USB scanning, or if it does, it is only TWAIN scanning from the computer connected to the USB.

If you are good with a soldering iron and the damage is only to the connector, you might be able to replace the CAT 5 connector on the board. Bear in mind that the board is most likely a multilayer design with plate through holes, so unsolder very carefully.

I've been able to replace connectors on the single layer boards, but not multiple layer. the last was a Canon which pinned out out OK on the workbench, but still would not connect to the network.

Alas, you take your chances. =^..^=

**sandmanmac** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by slimslob

Printing should work fine. If I remember correctly, the MP 2500 does not support USB scanning, or if it does, it is only TWAIN scanning from the computer connected to the USB.

If you are good with a soldering iron and the damage is only to the connector, you might be able to replace the CAT 5 connector on the board. Bear in mind that the board is most likely a multilayer design with plate through holes, so unsolder very carefully.

Just to clarify Slim, It's an MP C2500, but I'm not interested in USB scanning, I'm wondering if SMB scanning would be possible once this 'adapter' is installed.

And I'm not going to mess with the soldering (at least until I've made a deal to exchange with them) or I'll be blamed for anything else that goes wrong

**blackcat4866** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by sandmanmac

Just to clarify Slim, It's an MP C2500, but I'm not interested in USB scanning, I'm wondering if SMB scanning would be possible once this 'adapter' is installed.

And I'm not going to mess with the soldering (at least until I've made a deal to exchange with them) or I'll be blamed for anything else that goes wrong

Negative on that. You'll need original network connection for that. =^..^=

**slimslob** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by sandmanmac

Just to clarify Slim, It's an MP C2500, but I'm not interested in USB scanning, I'm wondering if SMB scanning would be possible once this 'adapter' is installed.

And I'm not going to mess with the soldering (at least until I've made a deal to exchange with them) or I'll be blamed for anything else that goes wrong

SMB scanning uses the on board port controller in the MP C2500. We had one that had the port controller go bad. You could ping it, you could access WIM, you could not print or scan. Had to replace the control board.

**sandmanmac** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by blackcat4866

Negative on that. You'll need original network connection for that. =^..^=

Originally Posted by slimslob

SMB scanning uses the on board port controller in the MP C2500. We had one that had the port controller go bad. You could ping it, you could access WIM, you could not print or scan. Had to replace the control board.

I had a feeling my gut was right. It was just a thought that came to mind as I struggled to get the pins straightened out.
Thanks guys!

**NeoMatrix** · 09-18-2014

Apart from the physical damage to the net connector.
Is the print/scan VM card in the correct slot and works okay?

**sandmanmac** · 09-18-2014

Originally Posted by NeoMatrix

Apart from the physical damage to the net connector.
Is the print/scan VM card in the correct slot and works okay?

Oh yeah, it's all good.
The machine was working great up until they moved it yesterday. The owner even admitted to possibly 'stretching' out the ethernet cable when he was pulling out the machine.
I have it printing Via USB for now until I take them a replacement Controller tomorrow