[NCLUG] Printer suggestions

[Michael Dwyer]

> > > Can anyone suggest a relatively cheap printer as a replacement which
is
> > > faster and better supported in Linux?  I'd like one that we can easily
> > I'm rather partial to the HP LaserJet 4ML they were selling refurbed at
> > http://www.theprinterworks.com  Since it is PostScript, it is excellent
>
> The 4ML is one I've worked with a little (in NT, at least), and I would
> definitely consider it.  That site indicates they're about $299, which
> is probably about the max we could pay.  Are these pretty easy to
> configure in Linux?

When I ordered mine, they were backordered.  They had to wait for a
used one to show up for them to refurb.  It took so long that I had
forgotten I'd ordered it.  :)  But I have been very happy with it ever
since.  They are dead easy to configure in Linux, in my humble opinion...
but then, I don't use any auto filters or anything.

My printcap is one line:
   lp:lp=/dev/lp0:sd=/var/spool/lpd:sh

My samba config is pretty straight forward, too:
   [treekiller]
      path = /var/spool/samba
      guest ok = yes
      printable = yes
      printer = lp
      printer driver = HP LaserJet 4ML PostScript
      print command = lpr -r -Plp %s
      lpq command = lpq -Plp
      lprm command = lprm -Plp %j

I must admit, though,  I do have a slight problem with Windows printing.  It
prints out at least one blank page after every printjob.  I'm told it may be
strange EOF things that the Windows drivers do.   There are a couple
wave-a-dead-chicken solutions out there... Any ideas, anyone?

> Also, is there a way to adjust the darkness level?

I don't think such a beast exists under PostScript proper, but I assume
there must be a way to send a PJL command to the printer to set exposure
level, at least.  That may have the desired effect.  I'll check tonight at
home.