lpr MacOS command

The lpr command on MacOS allows users to print files directly from the terminal. With this command, users can easily send documents to a printer without the need for a graphical user interface. The lpr command supports various options for specifying the printer, number of copies, print quality, and more. By mastering the lpr command, users can streamline their printing workflow and efficiently manage their printing tasks from the command line.

lpr Syntax:

lpr [options] [filename]

Options:

Option	Description
-#	Specify the number of copies to print
-P	Specify the printer name
-o	Specify additional options
-J	Set the job name for the print job
-C	Print the file in banner format
-Z	Compress the data before sending it to the printer
-h	Do not wait for the job to complete before exiting

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
filename	The file to be printed

Caution

Be cautious when using the lpr command on MacOS, as incorrect usage may result in unwanted print jobs or errors. Always ensure to specify the correct options and parameters to avoid any unexpected behavior.

lpr bash Examples:

Print a File

lpr file.txt

Sends the file “file.txt” to the default printer to be printed.

Print Multiple Files

lpr file1.txt file2.txt file3.txt

Prints multiple files (“file1.txt”, “file2.txt”, and “file3.txt”) one after the other.

Print a File with Specific Printer

lpr -P PrinterName file.txt

Directs the file “file.txt” to be printed on a specific printer named “PrinterName”.

Print a File in Black and White

lpr -o ColorModel=KGray file.txt

Prints the file “file.txt” in black and white using the KGray color model.

Print a File with Double-Sided Printing

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

Prints the file “file.txt” with double-sided printing, flipping the pages along the long edge.

Print a File with Multiple Copies

lpr -#3 file.txt

Prints 3 copies of the file “file.txt” in a single print job.

Tip

When using the lpr command in MacOS, make sure to familiarize yourself with the available options and parameters to maximize its functionality and efficiency.

How do I check the version of lpr in MacOS?

To check the version of lpr in MacOS, use the following command:

lpr --version

How do I print a file using lpr in MacOS?

To print a file using lpr in MacOS, execute the following command:

lpr file.txt

How do I list available printers with lpr in MacOS?

To list available printers using lpr in MacOS, use the following command:

lpstat -p

How do I set the number of copies with lpr in MacOS?

To set the number of copies using lpr in MacOS, execute the following command:

lpr -#2 file.txt

How do I cancel a print job with lpr in MacOS?

To cancel a print job using lpr in MacOS, use the following command:

lprm <job_id>

How do I print to a specific printer with lpr in MacOS?

To print to a specific printer using lpr in MacOS, execute the following command:

lpr -P printer_name file.txt

How do I view print job status with lpr in MacOS?

To view print job status using lpr in MacOS, use the following command:

lpq

How do I set page range for printing with lpr in MacOS?

To set a page range for printing using lpr in MacOS, execute the following command:

lpr -P printer_name -o page-ranges=1-5 file.txt

Applications of the lpr command

1. Sending files to a printer for printing.
2. Managing print queues.
3. Specifying print options such as number of copies, page range, and print quality.
4. Printing from the command line.
5. Automating printing tasks using scripts or other programs.
6. Checking the status of print jobs.