Article: PM1115xx series - Direct connect setup method

Networking, Serial, Bluetooth
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Direct-Connect Setup for Print Servers (PM1115xx Series)

This quick setup method works across all StarTech.com print servers, including our PM1115P3, PM1115U2 and PM1115UW. It is the most reliable way to get them onto your network for the first time.

https://www.startech.com/en-us/networking-io/print

What you’ll need

  • A computer with an Ethernet port (or USB-to-Ethernet adapter)
  • One Ethernet cable
  • The print server and its power adapter

Tip: Temporarily disable Wi-Fi on your computer during this process so the browser uses the direct Ethernet link.

Default IPs (for reference)

Model Default IP
PM1115P3 192.168.0.15
PM1115U2 169.254.10.10
PM1115UW 192.168.0.10

For older models, please refer to the Instruction Manual to get the default IP.

Steps

  1. Direct-connect

    • Connect the print server directly into the computer with a single Ethernet cable (do not go through a switch/router).
    • Power on the print server.

  2. Set a temporary static IPv4 on your computer (same subnet, different IP)

    • Open your network adapter’s IPv4 settings and configure:

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      • IP address:
        • If your model’s default IP is 192.168.0.10 / 15 → use something like 192.168.0.20
        • If your model’s default IP is 169.254.10.10 → use something like 169.254.10.20
      • Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
      • Default gateway: leave blank or set to 0.0.0.0
      • DNS: leave blank (not required for this step)

  3. Open the web interface

    • In a browser, go to the model’s default IP:

      • PM1115P3 → http://192.168.0.15
      • PM1115U2 → http://169.254.10.10
      • PM1115UW → http://192.168.0.10

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  4. Configure network settings on the print server

    • In the web UI, set the network to match your actual network:

      • Option A: Static IP – set a fixed IP, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS that fit your network (ensure the IP is unused).
      • Option B: DHCP – enable DHCP so your router assigns an IP. You’ll need to make sure to retrieve and reserve that IP so that it does not reset with time.

    • For PM1115UW (wireless): while still directly connected by Ethernet, you can also enter your Wi-Fi SSID/security so it can later join Wi-Fi. These are typically WPA2 with AES and must be over 2.4GHz.

  5. Save & reboot

    • Save/apply changes and reboot the print server if prompted.

  6. Return your computer to normal

    • Change your computer’s IPv4 back to Automatic (DHCP) or restore your original settings.
    • Disconnect the direct Ethernet cable.
    • Move the print server to its intended spot and connect it to your network (Ethernet or Wi-Fi as configured).
    • Connect the printer to the print server (USB or parallel, as applicable) and power on the printer.

  7. Add the printer profile to your computer

    • To add the printer profile to your computer, simply follow this easy guide on each computer.

Quick Troubleshooting (if the web page doesn’t load)

  • Confirm the direct cable is used (no network equipment in between).
  • Verify your computer’s temporary IP and subnet mask are correct (same subnet, different IP).
  • Try a different Ethernet cable/port.
  • Disable Wi-Fi and other adapters to avoid routing conflicts.
  • Factory reset the print server (per your model’s manual), then try again.
  • If you set DHCP and can’t find it after reboot: check your router’s DHCP client list for the assigned IP, then browse to that address.

This direct-connect method standardizes setup and troubleshooting across models, giving the highest chance of success on the first try.