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lp command

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9 replies

by andyho99

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Hi,

I use lp to print files. I found out that if line exceed physical length on the paper it would be truncated instead of wrap around. I tried to use width option but get an error message as follow:

***
==>lp -owidth=132 test
UX:lp: ERROR: The following options can't be handled:
-o width=
TO FIX: The printer(s) that otherwise qualify
for printing your request can't handle
one or more of these options. Try
another printer, or change the options.
***

Any suggestions?
BTW, when I use man page, it does not accept vi command. I recalled when I used AIX work station, it worked fine. I use DYNIX thru NetTerm right now. I am not sure it's something to with term type or OS.

Thanks, Andy

9 replies

by djudice

Try a space between the -o and width:
lp -o width=132 test

According to my Unix documentation there should be a space. It might require it.

by ustutz

1) Which OS are you on?

2) For a quick fix try
cat test | lp

3) Don't use "test" as a file name - it is actually a UNIX command. A file named "test" can have unpredictable results.

4) The point about the space: On HP-UX lp related commands require different spacing than on other UNIX flavors (hence the "Which OS" question). However, your machine does recognize your command, since it tells you
"-o width=" is not supported
(not "-owidth="). I suspect you are trying to print to a laser printer? Which does not support 132 wide carriage paper?

by notreallyoriginal

Line length and handling is also a function of the printer. Thumb through your printer manual for the settings to see if you can wrap a line or just have the printer truncate it. I used to deal with high volume Printek printers on an HP9000 with forms and we had to turn ON truncation because the alignment would get all messy if a line wrapped.

by mondick

First, try a space after the -o - this might clear it up. And second, what flavor/version of UNIX are you using?? Third, you should check the printer set up. It's posible that it may be set up with less lines.

Hope this helps.

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