question about wireless printer set up

[brie_brie]

okay so i have set up my printer to work wirelessly with the laptop upstairs. [the printer is downstairs attatched to the main computer] however this might sound really blonde, but i would like to know if the main computer that is downstairs MUST be on so that i can print from the laptop upstairs??

if it does need to be on, is there some programme or equiptment that i can purchase to allow me to print whilst the main computer is off.

thanks

 

[evongugg]

If the printer is a network printer connected via ethernet, the computer does not have to be on. If the printer is connected USB/parallel the computer must be on in order to print.
You could buy a print server, preferably a wireless print server, and connect the printer on the network. This would allow you to print without the computer being on.

 

[zenmaster]

You would likely need a product such as this one.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833139009