LPR Windows Command Guide

The Windows lpr command allows users to send files to a printer directly from the command line. By using the lpr command, users can easily submit print jobs without the need for a graphical user interface. This can be particularly useful for automating printing tasks or for printing files in batch mode. By following the appropriate syntax and options, users can specify the printer, print settings, and file to be printed. The lpr command is a powerful tool for users who prefer working with the command line interface in Windows.

LPR Syntax:

lpr [option] [parameter]

Options:

Option	Description
-S	Specify the hostname or IP address of the print server.
-P	Specify the name of the printer.
-#	Specify the number of copies to print.
-o	Specify additional options.
-U	Specify the username for authentication.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
file	The file to be printed.
directory	The directory containing files to print.

Caution

Exercise caution when using the lpr command as it directly sends files to the printer for printing and may result in unintended or multiple printouts if not used carefully.

LPR Command Samples:

Print a text file to a printer named “PrinterName”

lpr -S <PrinterName> <filename.txt>

Prints a text file to a specific printer using the lpr command.

Specify the number of copies to print

lpr -# <number_of_copies> <filename.txt>

Prints multiple copies of a file using the lpr command.

Print a PDF file to a printer named “PrinterName”

lpr -S <PrinterName> -P <printer_port> <filename.pdf>

Prints a PDF file to a specific printer using the lpr command.

Verify if a printer named “PrinterName” is available

lpr -T <"Testing printer connection"> -U <username> -S <PrinterName>

Checks if a printer is available for printing using the lpr command.

Specify a page range to print

lpr -P <printer_port> -J <"Page Range"> -o page-ranges=1-3 <filename.txt>

Prints a specific range of pages from a text file using the lpr command.

Print a file and place a custom title on the print job

lpr -P <printer_port> -T <"Custom Title"> <filename.txt>

Prints a file to a printer with a custom title for the print job using the lpr command.

Print a file with a specific print queue

lprm -P <"queue_name"> -% <job_id>

Removes a specific print job from a print queue using the lprm command.

Tip

When using the lpr command in Windows, make sure that your printer is properly set up and configured in your system. Check the printer’s connection and settings to avoid any printing errors.

LPR FAQ:

How do I use lpr in Windows?

To use the lpr command in Windows, execute the following command:

lpr --option <value>

What are some common options for the lpr command in Windows?

Some common options for the lpr command in Windows include selecting a specific printer, specifying the number of copies, setting the print orientation, and choosing the paper size.

lpr -P PrinterName -#3 -o landscape -o media=A4 filename

How can I print a specific file using the lpr command in Windows?

To print a specific file using the lpr command in Windows, you can specify the file path along with any desired options.

lpr -P PrinterName C:\Users\username\Documents\example.pdf

Can I cancel a print job sent using the lpr command in Windows?

Yes, you can cancel a print job sent using the lpr command in Windows by using the lprm command followed by the job ID.

lprm JobID

How can I list the print jobs in the queue using the lpr command in Windows?

You can list the print jobs in the queue using the lpq command in Windows. This will show you the status of each print job.

lpq

Is there a way to set default options for the lpr command in Windows?

Yes, you can set default options for the lpr command by creating a configuration file named .lpoptions in your user’s home directory. This file can contain default options for the lpr command.

echo "Default PrinterName" > %USERPROFILE%\.lpoptions

Applications of the LPR Command

• Allows printing files to a network printer
• Sends print jobs from the command-line interface
• Useful for automation and batch printing tasks