So it appears that there’s no printer driver for my printer. Instead, I’m going to try to write one myself. But how do I figure out what commands, etc my printer understands? Is there a way to figure it out from the windows driver? how?
Hi
Have a read here;
http://www.cups.org/documentation.php
There is also another tab where you can test a driver.
I’m surprised you can’t use a cups generic driver?
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Cheers Malcolm °¿° (Linux Counter #276890)
openSUSE 11.0 x86 Kernel 2.6.25.18-0.2-default
up 0:28, 1 user, load average: 0.22, 0.48, 0.43
GPU GeForce 6600 TE/6200 TE - Driver Version: 177.80
I’ve tried everything but nothing works (it’s a lexmark x6150).
Considering how cheap it is to buy a new Printer with ink ready to go. Like say HP (good support) Check the HCL. I’m not sure why you are even contemplating all that hassle.
Hi
I brought a HP-340 all in one plugged it in ran hp-setup…done.
Scanner and printer worked all for US$60 from Walmart. We don’t do a
lot of printing so have only replaced one set of cartridges.
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Cheers Malcolm °¿° (Linux Counter #276890)
openSUSE 11.0 x86 Kernel 2.6.25.18-0.2-default
up 0:50, 1 user, load average: 0.64, 0.44, 0.41
GPU GeForce 6600 TE/6200 TE - Driver Version: 177.80
Well, maybe the OP just wants a project to get his/her hands dirty with. Not to mention it’s quite frustrating to have hardware you can’t use.
6tr6tr: Are you trying to actually write a new driver, or just come up with a *.ppd file? Writing a new driver is going to be something that will take some time, especially if you are new to programming for hardware. Writing a ppd file is much easier. You can base yours off of one for an existing similar model by Lexmark.
Also, if it is just a ppd you need, then make sure you google around first; I found one for a network printer at a previous job that was sitting out there somewhere.
Well it’s a noble goal, writing a driver for printer. Drivers have indeed been created by frustrated hackers. But be warned that it isn’t easy. Especially if the manufacturer isn’t cooperative and doesn’t provide any documentation on what commands the printer can handle. In the absence of documentation some hackers resort to reverse engineering, by watching the communication between driver and device on a system where it works, like Windows. Very time-consuming. If you are not very determined you would end up very frustrated. And spend more time and money than it would cost to get another ink-jet printer.
Thanks! I’ll check that out. And yes, it’s both something I’m doing because the hardware doesn’t work and I think it’s be a fun challenge too.