Avoiding Printing Problems


Before buying a new printer, always research its Linux compatibility first. SUSE Linux and CUPS can run most current printer models, especially if they are standard printers connected by a parallel cable. Some vendors support Linux better than others, and it is always a good idea to visit www.linuxprinting.org to get the current thinking on each printer vendor.

The following sections contain a few tips on the more problematic devices.

Multifunction (Print/Fax/Scanner) Devices

The more you try to do, the harder it is to succeed. These printing triathletes need the full support of the manufacturer to make a go of it in Linux, and that support has been spotty. In response to a clamor from Linux users, the leading producer of budget-priced multifunction devices, Brother, has begun writing Linux print and scan drivers. They are still rated "Useless" at linuxprinting.org, but your mileage may vary. See http://solutions.brother.com/linux/en_us for current information on Brother drivers.

Consider yourself lucky, however, if you have an HP OfficeJet multifunction device. SUSE Linux supports these devices out of the box.

USB and Older Inkjet Printers

More printers run from the USB port these days. You learned something about Linux and vendor support for USB devices in Chapter 2, "Preparing to Install SUSE Linux." Although there's nothing special to note about USB printers, you should still check out http://www.linux-usb.org if you have or are considering one of these printers.

Generally, you should avoid inexpensive older inkjet printers that came out at the end of the last century. Manufacturers didn't know much about Linux when these printers were new, and they certainly aren't going back to add support now.

Like the Winmodems that rely on software to perform many essential communications tasks, quite a few of these printers shaved a few bucks off their cost by using the Microsoft Graphic Device Interface (GDI). Essentially, the printers run only because they have access to this Windows-only interface.

The SUSE Linux Administration Guide offers a partial list of these printers, and linuxprinting.org has a broader listing in its database.



SUSE Linux 10 Unleashed
SUSE Linux 10.0 Unleashed
ISBN: 0672327260
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 332

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