The software is on a computer, the printer is next to it.
To print, I need the software to be “paired” with the printer.
To do that, I need a mobile app to scan a QR code on the printer’s little screen, to get a six-digit code.
To do that, I needed to log into the mobile app with an account.
(breathe Harold, breathe)
I did all that, and the mobile app couldn’t scan the QR code due to crazy glare on the little screen.
After some back and forth, it did work, but at the same time I updated the printer’s firmware, which displays the six-digit code on the little screen without the need for the mobile app and that stupid QR dance.
Sigh.
The printer is now paired and I’m thinking that I can now print. Hell I can!
Both computer and printer are on the internet, but they can’t seem to talk to each other.
I look at some help online and it’s a bit of a nightmare, there’s a lot of people having issues.
If you’re at home on a home router, no problem. If you’re using professional grade routers and stuff, it doesn’t work due to network port restrictions, security and so forth.
In the end I used a laptop as a hotspot, connected both desktop computer and printer to it and now they can talk to each other, and I can print.
I still giggle at my imagination being printed out irl
This is completely fucking insane. A simple USB-A cable to my computer would have made everything a breeze and save me hours of troubleshooting. The printer is fabulous though. I can understand the will to offer a choice for people to print from anywhere but jfc, this is a professional tool getting hot (220°C/428°F). I’m not printing from miles away and I’m pretty sure most people don’t either.
Why would I need a mobile app with badges and followers and “favorites” to print? Young folks might also just want to print. Stop the abusive gamification and stupid engagement tricks, respect customers!
Computers (and 3D printers and digital devices) are wonderful tools. They are not lifestyle.
Anyway, it’s working now and I won’t update shit. Printing!