How to Use Lprint to Print a File

Computer users who take the time to learn certain common commands can save themselves time and effort when it comes down to troubleshooting problems. Common commands like Lprint (used to print a file) are especially helpful considering how much of our work needs to be printed and presented to others.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Printer manual

Know the Basics for Using LPrint to Print a File

1. Be aware that the LPrint command is used in much the same way as a standard print command.

2. Use the LPrint command to print a file directly rather than sending the print command to a display screen. You will be saving one step in the printing process.

3. Use the LPrint command to print for the first time by first entering the LPrint Attach command. This is required, because you need to specify which printing device to use. Learn more about setting up print commands from Power Basic (see Resources below).

4. Leave your printer open for other applications to use by entering the LPrint Close command after you've printed your work.

Learn to Correct Common LPrint Problems

5. Check that your printer is on and connected. Since LPrint bypasses the display and sends information directly to the device, this is the most common problem users experience. It can be incredibly frustrating to spend half an hour on the phone with technical support only to discover that all you have to do was turn on your printer.

6. Check to make sure that you are utilizing the proper terminal emulation tool. Samson is a common emulation software used by both PC and Mac for printing.

7. Use LPrint to print to a networked printer rather than a directly attached device with MacSamson terminal emulation software or similar products specified in your user manual.

8. Select the proper terminal type. LPrint command cannot be used if you do not specify your PC or Mac terminal type.

9. Set the right printer type. Look on your printer or in the manual to set the printer type.

10. Make sure your printer is connected to the right printer port. Sometimes, even though it appears your printer is connected, it may be plugged into the wrong port. On some Mac computers, your printer might be connected through the modem port.

Tips & Warnings

• If using LPrint command to print a file, do not continue to enter the command if it does not seem to work. LPrint communicates directly with the attached printing device, not through the Windows display, so you may not receive an error message. You can see if the command is being sent by checking your print queue under printers in the control panel.

Resources

• Attach a printer with Power Basic help