The Printer Processor – How to Change and Data Types.

In the world of printing technology, the term “printer processor” may not be as familiar as terms like “inkjet” or “laser.” However, the printer processor plays a crucial role in the functionality of your printer. It’s the brain behind the operation. in this article, we will explore what is printer processors, shedding light on their importance, functionality, data types, and impact on your printing experience.

What is a Printer Processor?

A printer processor, also known as a print processor a vital component of a printer. print processors are implemented as dynamic-link libraries (DLLs) that are loaded into memory when the print spooler service starts. Its primary role is to translate the data from the computer into a format that the printer can understand and process. This conversion process may involve translating the print job into a printer-specific language.

The print processor also determines how to handle certain job settings, such as whether to print a document in landscape or portrait orientation, how to manage color settings, and how to handle duplex printing (printing on both sides of the paper).

Data Types

The Windows Print Processor supports several data types that are used to process and format print jobs. Here is a detailed overview of the main data types:

RAW

This is the most basic data type. It sends the print job directly to the printer without any modification. It’s typically used for printers that support the Printer Command Language (PCL) or PostScript.

EMF (Enhanced Metafile Format)

This data type is used for print jobs that are rendered into a metafile. The print processor then sends the metafile to the printer driver for final rendering. This allows for more efficient use of system resources, as the print job can be spooled while the printer is busy with another task.

• NT EMF 1.008: This is an updated version of the EMF data type that includes additional features for more complex print jobs.
• NT EMF 1.003: This is an older version of the EMF data type. It’s still supported for backward compatibility, but it lacks some of the features of the newer versions.

TEXT

This data type is used for plain text print jobs. It’s typically used for simple documents that don’t require any special formatting or graphics.

XPS

The XML Paper Specification (XPS) data type is used for documents that are written in the XPS document format. This format supports advanced graphics and layout features.

RAW [FF appended]

This is similar to the RAW data type, but it includes a form feed command at the end of the print job to ensure that the page is ejected from the printer.

RAW [FF auto]

This is another variation of the RAW data type. It automatically adds a form feed command if one is not included in the print job.

How to Change the Print Processor

To change the print processors in Windows, you can follow these steps:

Step 1

Click on the “Start” button, then Open the Control Panel

Step 2

In the Control Panel, find the “Devices and Printers” or “Printers and Scanners” option and click on it.

Step 3

Look for the printer that you want to customize the print processor for in the list of installed printers. Right-click on the printer and select “Printer properties” or “Properties” from the context menu.

Step 4

In the printer properties window, go to the “Advanced” or “Advanced Options” tab. Look at the bottom for an option named “Print Processor”

Step 5

By default, a print processor appropriate for your printer model is selected. However, if you want to customize the print processing, click on “Winprint” in the print processor column and then choose a different data type from the provided list.

If you choose to create a custom print processor, you will be presented with options to specify how the data should be processed and sent to the printer. The available options may vary depending on the printer and the print processor you select.

Step 6

After customizing the print processor settings, click on the “OK” or “Apply” button to save the changes.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of printer processors can help you troubleshoot printing issues and optimize your printing processes. While they might seem like a small ingredient in the grand machinery of your printer system, they play an essential role in ensuring your print jobs are executed correctly. With print processors, it’s not just about printing; it’s about printing with style, precision, and a dash of creativity.