Part 1 of our WiFi PDA/Linux series focused on setting up the iPAQ to browse the Web and connect to a Linux/Samba file server.

This time, we'll look at printing from the iPAQ to a CUPS print server.

This capability is useful in any situation where a highly mobile worker needs to print something, especially while working in a localized area. Examples might include printing prescriptions in a medical office by a doctor while roaming from patient to patient. Waiters printing sales receipts for their customers. How about paper copies of checklists and quality documents on the shop floor?

Companies interested in a first time open source project, might find that setting up printing from their iPAQs to a Linux/CUPS printer is a good low-risk icebreaker. Recycle an old desktop machine, throw Linux/Samba/CUPS on it, plug in the LAN and printer, then give it a whirl. Takes care of several issues, all at once.

I'm impressed with the HP 3715's capabilities. They are fast yet portable and put a lot of computing power in the user's hand. Couple the WiFi connectivity with Linux and just think of the possibilities. My goal for this series is to help readers think about how a PDA can work with a Linux infrastructure. I'm hopeful, that readers will explore (and share) some of their own PDA/Linux ideas, too.

Let's get PDA/CUPS printing.

Next: First Things First »