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Can You Connect Two Computers to the Brother DCP-195C? Complete Technical Guide
The Brother DCP-195C is a versatile all-in-one printer that many users want to share between multiple computers. Whether you’re setting up a home office or small business environment, understanding the connectivity options for dual-computer setups is crucial. This comprehensive guide explores all possible methods to connect two computers to your Brother DCP-195C, including technical requirements, performance considerations, and step-by-step implementation.
Understanding the Brother DCP-195C Connectivity Options
The Brother DCP-195C offers several connection interfaces that determine how you can share it between computers:
- USB 2.0 Port: Standard direct connection interface
- Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n: Wireless networking capability
- 10/100 Ethernet Port: Wired network connection
- PictBridge: Direct printing from cameras (not relevant for computer sharing)
The key to connecting two computers lies in understanding that while the printer has only one USB port, it can serve multiple computers through network sharing methods.
Method 1: Network Sharing via Wi-Fi (Recommended)
Technical Requirements
- Wi-Fi network with WPA2 security
- Both computers connected to the same network
- Brother DCP-195C connected to Wi-Fi
- Printer drivers installed on both computers
Step-by-Step Setup
- Connect Printer to Wi-Fi:
- Press the Wi-Fi button on the printer’s control panel
- Navigate to Setup > Network > WLAN > Setup Wizard
- Select your Wi-Fi network and enter the password
- Print a network configuration page to verify connection
- Install Drivers on Primary Computer:
- Download the full driver package from Brother’s support site
- Run the installer and select “Network” connection type
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation
- Share Printer on Network:
- On Windows: Go to Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners
- Select your printer and click “Manage” > “Printer properties” > “Sharing”
- Check “Share this printer” and give it a share name
- On macOS: Go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners
- Select your printer and check “Share this printer on the network”
- Connect Secondary Computer:
- On Windows: Add printer > Select “Network printer” > Browse for shared printer
- On macOS: Add printer > Select the shared printer from the list
- Install any required drivers when prompted
Performance Considerations
Wi-Fi sharing offers the most flexible solution with these characteristics:
- Print Speed: Slightly slower than USB (about 5-10% reduction)
- Reliability: Dependent on network stability
- Convenience: No need to switch cables between computers
- Range: Effective up to 30 meters with standard Wi-Fi
Method 2: Wired Network Sharing via Ethernet
Technical Requirements
- Router with available Ethernet ports
- Ethernet cable (Cat5e or better recommended)
- Both computers connected to the same network
Advantages Over Wi-Fi
| Feature | Wi-Fi Sharing | Ethernet Sharing |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Stability | Good (subject to interference) | Excellent (wired connection) |
| Print Speed | ~8.5 ipm black, ~5.5 ipm color | ~9.2 ipm black, ~6.0 ipm color |
| Setup Complexity | Moderate | Simple |
| Latency | 10-50ms | 1-5ms |
| Security | WPA2 encryption | Physical network security |
Implementation Steps
- Connect the printer to your router using an Ethernet cable
- On the printer’s control panel, navigate to Network > Wired LAN > Setup
- Select “Auto” for IP address configuration (DHCP)
- Print a network configuration page to note the printer’s IP address
- On each computer, add a new network printer using the printer’s IP address
- Install the appropriate drivers when prompted
Method 3: USB Sharing with Manual Switching
When to Use This Method
USB sharing is the simplest but least convenient method, suitable when:
- You don’t have network capabilities
- You need maximum print quality and speed
- You rarely need to switch between computers
- You’re working with sensitive documents that shouldn’t be on a network
Implementation
- Connect the printer to the first computer via USB
- Install the full driver package from Brother’s website
- When you need to use the second computer:
- Safely eject the printer from the first computer
- Physically disconnect the USB cable
- Connect to the second computer
- Install drivers if not already present
Limitations
- Physical cable switching required
- Only one computer can use the printer at a time
- Risk of USB port wear from frequent connecting/disconnecting
- No remote printing capabilities
Method 4: Advanced USB Sharing with Hardware Switch
Technical Solution
For users who prefer USB connections but want to avoid manual switching, a USB sharing switch (also called a USB KVM switch) provides an elegant solution. These devices allow you to connect multiple computers to one USB printer with the press of a button.
Recommended Hardware
| Model | Ports | Switching Method | Price Range | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATEN US224 | 4 USB ports | Button/IR Remote | $40-$60 | Windows/macOS/Linux |
| StarTech.com USB221SM | 2 USB ports | Button | $25-$40 | All major OS |
| Belkin F1DK102P | 2 USB ports | Button | $30-$50 | Windows/macOS |
| IOGEAR GUS221 | 2 USB ports | Button | $35-$55 | All major OS |
Setup Instructions
- Connect the USB sharing switch to a power source if required
- Connect the Brother DCP-195C to the “Printer” or “Peripheral” port on the switch
- Connect both computers to the “Computer” ports on the switch
- Install printer drivers on both computers
- Use the switch button to toggle between computers
Performance Comparison of Connection Methods
To help you decide which method best suits your needs, here’s a detailed performance comparison:
Print Speed Comparison
| Method | Black (ipm) | Color (ipm) |
|---|---|---|
| Direct USB | 9.5 | 6.2 |
| Wi-Fi | 8.5 | 5.5 |
| Ethernet | 9.2 | 6.0 |
| USB Switch | 9.4 | 6.1 |
Setup Complexity
| Method | Time Required | Technical Skill |
|---|---|---|
| Direct USB | 5 minutes | Basic |
| Wi-Fi | 20 minutes | Intermediate |
| Ethernet | 15 minutes | Intermediate |
| USB Switch | 10 minutes | Basic |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Wi-Fi Connection Problems
- Printer not found on network:
- Verify both computers are on the same network
- Restart the printer and router
- Check firewall settings on both computers
- Reinstall printer drivers with network option selected
- Slow print speeds:
- Move the printer closer to the router
- Switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi band if available
- Reduce print quality settings for large documents
- Close other network-intensive applications
- Authentication errors:
- Update the printer’s firmware
- Change Wi-Fi security from WEP to WPA2
- Temporarily disable MAC address filtering on your router
Ethernet Connection Problems
- Printer not getting IP address:
- Check Ethernet cable connections
- Try a different cable
- Configure a static IP address if DHCP fails
- Restart the router and printer
- Intermittent connection:
- Update router firmware
- Try a different router port
- Disable energy-saving features on the router
- Check for cable damage
USB Sharing Problems
- Printer not recognized:
- Try different USB ports
- Update USB drivers on the computer
- Use a powered USB hub if connecting through a hub
- Check for physical damage to the USB cable
- Switch not working:
- Ensure the switch has power if required
- Try pressing the switch button firmly
- Check all cable connections
- Test with different USB devices to isolate the problem
Security Considerations for Shared Printers
When sharing a printer between multiple computers, security becomes an important consideration. Here are key security measures to implement:
- Network Security:
- Use WPA3 encryption for Wi-Fi if available (WPA2 minimum)
- Change the default SSID and password on your router
- Enable MAC address filtering for additional security
- Create a separate guest network for less trusted devices
- Printer Security:
- Set up a printer administrator password
- Disable unused protocols (like FTP, Telnet) in printer settings
- Keep the printer’s firmware updated
- Enable the printer’s firewall if available
- Document Security:
- Enable secure print features to require PIN codes for print jobs
- Clear the printer’s memory regularly if handling sensitive documents
- Use encrypted PDFs for confidential prints
- Implement pull printing if your workflow supports it
- Computer Security:
- Use strong passwords for all user accounts
- Keep operating systems and printer drivers updated
- Install reputable antivirus software
- Configure proper share permissions for the printer
Optimizing Print Performance for Shared Environments
When multiple users share a printer, optimizing performance becomes crucial. Here are professional tips to maximize efficiency:
Printer Settings Optimization
- Print Quality:
- Use “Draft” mode (600 dpi) for internal documents
- Reserve “High” mode (1200 dpi) for final client documents
- Set “Normal” (600×600 dpi) as the default for most tasks
- Paper Handling:
- Use the correct paper type settings to prevent jams
- Keep the paper tray at least half full for reliable feeding
- Fan paper before loading to prevent multiple sheet feeding
- Maintenance:
- Run the printer’s cleaning utility monthly
- Replace ink cartridges when print quality declines
- Use genuine Brother ink for optimal performance
- Clean the print head if you notice streaks or missing colors
Network Optimization
- Prioritize printer traffic on your router (QoS settings)
- Use a wired connection for the printer if possible
- Position the printer close to the router for Wi-Fi connections
- Limit the number of active connections to the printer
- Schedule large print jobs during off-peak hours
Workflow Optimization
- Implement print quotas to prevent excessive usage
- Use print management software for tracking
- Encourage duplex printing to save paper
- Set up separate print queues for different quality needs
- Train users on efficient printing practices
Alternative Solutions for Multi-Computer Printing
If the Brother DCP-195C’s sharing capabilities don’t meet your needs, consider these alternative approaches:
Dedicated Print Server
A print server is a device that connects directly to your printer and manages print jobs from multiple computers. Benefits include:
- Centralized print management
- Advanced job queuing and prioritization
- Detailed usage reporting
- Support for more simultaneous connections
Cloud Printing Services
Services like Google Cloud Print (or alternatives) allow you to:
- Print from any internet-connected device
- Share access with specific users
- Monitor print jobs remotely
- Access advanced print options through web interfaces
Virtual Printer Drivers
Software solutions that create virtual print queues can:
- Route print jobs to the most available printer
- Convert documents to PDF automatically
- Implement advanced security features
- Provide detailed audit trails
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect the Brother DCP-195C to two computers simultaneously via USB?
No, the Brother DCP-195C has only one USB port and cannot physically connect to two computers at the same time without using a USB sharing switch. The printer’s USB interface is designed for one-to-one connections only.
Will sharing the printer between computers void the warranty?
No, normal network sharing or using approved USB sharing devices will not void your warranty. However, physical modifications to the printer or using non-standard connection methods might affect warranty coverage. Always use Brother-approved accessories and methods.
Can I print from both computers at the same time?
The Brother DCP-195C can only process one print job at a time, regardless of the connection method. When multiple print jobs are sent simultaneously, they will be queued and processed in the order received. Network sharing methods handle this queuing automatically.
Do I need to install drivers on both computers?
Yes, each computer that will use the printer needs to have the appropriate drivers installed. For network sharing, you’ll need to install the network drivers on each computer. For USB sharing with a switch, each computer needs the standard USB drivers.
What’s the maximum number of computers that can share the DCP-195C?
While the printer can technically be shared with many computers over a network, Brother recommends limiting simultaneous connections to 5-10 computers for optimal performance. The actual limit depends on your network infrastructure and the complexity of print jobs.
Can I scan from both computers when sharing the printer?
Yes, when connected via network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), both computers can use the scanning functions of the DCP-195C. For USB connections, only the currently connected computer can access the scanner functions unless you’re using a more advanced USB sharing solution that supports scanner passthrough.