Switch 101: Connect your peripherals

You can use many of the same devices you used with your PC with your Mac

Mac OS X includes built-in software for many printers that allow it to recognize the printer when you connect it to your Mac, so you may not need to install printer software even if it was included with the printer. Connect the printer to your computer's USB port or FireWire port, if supported using the appropriate cable. Be sure to check the documentation that came with the printer and turn it on. If it doesn't seem to be recognized by the printer, for example, you can't print. You may need to download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website and install.

For other peripherals, check with your device manufacturer by visiting their website to see if the product is supported on a Mac. If so, you should be able to download Mac drivers (if needed) from their website to use your device with your Mac. Mac OS X ships with tons of drivers for today's most popular USB inkjet printers, as well as scanner support through Image Capture, TWAIN support, Epson scanner drivers, CUPS Printing, PostScript transparency printing, personal printer sharing, and more.

Once you've downloaded and installed any relevant Mac drivers, you can connect your devices to your Mac just as you did on your PC. While some devices such as external hard drives, digital cameras, DV camcorders, and input devices are simply plug-and-play, you will need to configure others before using them for the first time, such as your printer and modem, whether you've got dial-up, cable, or DSL.

If you need help setting up or configuring any peripheral with your Mac, visit "Mac 101: Connect and Use Your Devices" to get detailed instructions for all types of devices.

Tip: Although some device manufacturers may not have a driver available for the Mac, there may be something available through open-source or a third-party developer. Do a web search for what you need to see if someone else has developed comparable software if your device requires it.