How do you work offline on a mac?

How can I create a home network with a Windows PC, a Mac, and an Ubuntu notebook?

• I have the 3 computers above in my home and would like to have them all connected on a home network. At the very least, I want them all to be able to print to the HP 1600 printer connected to the Windows PC. The PC is running Windows Vista Basic, the Mac has current software and the Ubuntu is pretty recent too. I have enable sharing on the PC and Mac, but not yet on the Ubuntu notebook (it's a hand me down notebook and Ubuntu or Linux or whatever it is is a little beyond me). The main thing I am trying to do right now is get a MacBook Pro to print to the printer. There is a wireless connection in my home - linksys router, cable modem. The Mac is recognizing the 2 printers connected to my PC, but it says they are offline. The one I want to work with (the 1600) is on and says "Ready". How do I get the printer "online" on the Mac so I can use it remotely? Any help is appreciated!! I hope I have given enough info - if more is needed, just let me know...I am sick of trying to figure this out on my own and being unsuccessful!

• Answer:

  It won't be easy to print from your Mac to that computer. Here is a link for complete instructions to get you on track. http://mattgadient.com/2009/01/18/mac-os-x-drivers-for-the-hp-color-laserjet-1600/ You would think HP would make sure to add support for Mac users on ALL of their products. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Good luck!