lp MacOS Command Guide

The MacOS lp command allows users to print files directly from the command line. By utilizing this command, users can easily send print tasks to designated printers with various options for customization. The lp command supports different printing formats, including PDF, text files, and images. Users can specify the printer destination, number of copies, paper size, print quality, and more. With the lp command, users can streamline their printing tasks and enhance productivity by avoiding the need for graphical user interfaces.

lp Syntax:

lp [options] [filename(s)]

Options:

Option	Description
-q	Perform a quiet operation
-d	Specify the printer to use
-n	Specify the number of copies
-o	Provide additional options

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
filename(s)	Specify the file(s) to be printed

Caution

Exercise caution when using the lp command as it directly sends files to the printer without any further confirmation or preview. Make sure the specified printer is correct and double-check the files being sent to avoid wasting resources or printing incorrect documents.

lp Command Samples:

Print a Single Copy of a File

lp file.txt

Prints a single copy of the file “file.txt”.

Specify the Printer to Use

lp -d printer_name file.txt

Prints the file “file.txt” using the specified printer “printer_name”.

Print Multiple Copies of a File

lp -n 3 file.txt

Prints three copies of the file “file.txt”.

Print a PDF File

lp file.pdf

Prints the PDF file “file.pdf”.

Print a File in Grayscale

lp -o ColorModel=KGray file.txt

Prints the file “file.txt” in grayscale.

Print a File Duplex (Double-Sided)

lp -o sides=two-sided-long-edge file.txt

Prints the file “file.txt” in duplex mode with long-edge binding.

Print a File with Specific Page Range

lp -o page-ranges=1-3 file.txt

Prints pages 1 to 3 of the file “file.txt”.

Tip

Make sure to check the printer status and availability before using the lp command to avoid any printing issues.

How do I use lp in MacOS?

To use the lp command in MacOS, execute the following command:

lp -d printer_name file_name

How can I print multiple copies of a file using lp in MacOS?

To print multiple copies of a file in MacOS using the lp command, you can specify the number of copies with the -n option. Here is an example command:

lp -n 3 file_name

How do I set the page orientation when printing with lp in MacOS?

To set the page orientation (landscape or portrait) when printing using the lp command in MacOS, you can use the -o option. Here is an example command:

lp -o landscape file_name

How can I print a PDF file using lp in MacOS?

To print a PDF file in MacOS using the lp command, you need to specify the printer and the PDF file location. Here is an example command:

lp -d printer_name file_path.pdf

How do I cancel a print job using lp in MacOS?

To cancel a print job in MacOS using the lp command, you can use the cancel command followed by the job ID. Here is an example command:

cancel -a

How do I list available printers with lp in MacOS?

To list all available printers in MacOS using the lp command, you can use the -p option. Here is an example command:

lpstat -p

Applications of the lp command

• Print files
• Manage print jobs
• Set print job options
• Cancel print jobs