lpinfo is a command-line utility used to list connected printers and installed drivers for the CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) print server. It provides users with valuable information about the available printers and their associated drivers, helping them manage printing tasks more effectively and troubleshoot printing issues efficiently.
Key features and functionalities of lpinfo include:
- Printer Listing: lpinfo allows users to obtain a comprehensive list of all printers connected to the CUPS print server. This list includes both local printers connected directly to the system and network printers accessible over the network. Users can view details such as printer names, descriptions, connection types, and printer locations.
- Driver Information: In addition to listing printers, lpinfo provides information about the printer drivers installed on the system. It enumerates the available printer drivers supported by CUPS, including both built-in drivers and third-party drivers installed by users. Users can view details such as driver names, descriptions, and supported printer models.
- Driver Options: lpinfo displays the available options and settings supported by each printer driver. This includes information about supported printer resolutions, paper sizes, color modes, duplex printing capabilities, and other printer-specific features. Users can use this information to configure printers and select appropriate driver options for their printing needs.
- Filtering and Formatting: lpinfo offers options for filtering and formatting the output to customize the information displayed to users. Users can specify filters to narrow down the list of printers based on criteria such as printer location, connection type, or driver type. Additionally, users can choose the output format, such as plain text or XML, to suit their preferences or integrate lpinfo output into scripting or automation workflows.
- Diagnostic Tool: lpinfo serves as a diagnostic tool for troubleshooting printing issues and verifying printer configurations. By listing connected printers and installed drivers, users can quickly identify potential problems with printer connections, driver installations, or compatibility issues between printers and drivers. This helps streamline the troubleshooting process and resolve printing problems promptly.
- Integration with Printing Workflow: lpinfo integrates seamlessly with the printing workflow, complementing other CUPS command-line utilities and administrative tools. Users can use lpinfo in conjunction with other CUPS commands to perform advanced printing tasks, manage print queues, configure printer settings, and monitor printing activities effectively.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: lpinfo is compatible with various Unix-like operating systems, including Linux, macOS, and BSD distributions, that support the CUPS printing system. It provides consistent functionality across different platforms, allowing users to access printer and driver information regardless of their preferred operating system.
lpinfo Command Examples
1. List all the currently connected printers:
# lpinfo -v
2. List all the currently installed printer drivers:
# lpinfo -m
3. Search installed printer drivers by make and model:
# lpinfo --make-and-model "[printer_model]" -m
Summary
In summary, lpinfo is a versatile and valuable command-line utility for listing connected printers and installed drivers on the CUPS print server. By providing users with detailed information about available printers and driver options, lpinfo helps streamline printer management, diagnose printing issues, and ensure efficient printing operations in Unix-like environments.