Lots of Answers
Are devices like TVs, PS3s, etc. up to date on the N wireless signature? Or are they only capable of G?
Almost all "N"outersare backwards compatible with "G". So if it can handle "N", it goes at higher speed otherwise runs at "G"
Specifically answering OP's questions:
Here's what I want and have questions on...
1) The cable that comes into the house... should it go into something other than the black router box that was supplied? Can it or is it proprietary? If so, what?
Replace black router with one that has "G" or "N" wireless
2) From there what should that plug into for my wireless? I'm sure I need a new wireless router since mine is dated.
Taken care of in question (1) answer. You will connect to desktop PC via cableEthernet to configure. Enable wireless and secure either "WEP"or "WPA"
3) I have 2 printers in my office... an HP laserjet and an HP deskjet. I'd like those to be on the network somehow.
Usually they connect to a PC and then can be "shared" with other deviceson your local network. The default name is "Workgroup", but you can use any name you want , just make sure all your devices have the same name.
You can also share hard drives.
What hardware should I get? Thanks in advance for the expertise.
Answerd previously - LG BD390 ( you get Netflix, CinemaNow, YouTube and VuDu) - Have successfuly tried NetFlix and YouTube ( sorry I haven't tried more; just got my LG BD390 last night 12/20/09). Get a router that has wireless. "N" isthe newest and fastest and makesure it hasbackward compatibility with "G". "G" was the current standard and alldevices willwork with it; some newer will work with "N".
Peace, Good Luck and Good Sound!
Forest Man