[Leaplist] Printing Challenge

[Bruce Metcalf]

Fred Moore wrote:

> the printer does not know its an envelope it only knows it has paper
> in it.

Actually, the HP 5550 does know it has an envelope, that's one of the 
paper type settings. It can also sense the size of the paper -- width 
before running, length during the print run.


> In fact most lasers only know the max size they can print. So if it
> prints 11x17 and you create an 11x17 document and only put in 8.5 x 
> 11 it still prints outside the 8.5 x 11 page and just puts toner
> inside the printer, not on the pager. Some are smart enough to select
> a default paper size if they contain a special place to put 
> envelopes. I put envelopes in my normal paper drawer so I don't have 
> to mess with this stuff.

I've tried several approaches, including setting up a custom paper size 
equal to the envelopes, and the "any custom" size that should accept 
anything fed into the tray. Still no joy.


> So you need to generate a page that matches the dimensions of your 
> envelope, relative to the way you put it in the printer.
> 
> Start by creating a new page style... with the dimension of the 
> envelope....

Been there, done that. The size of the document is the same as the 
envelopes -- 12 x 9". The problem is that the printer insists on 
applying the ink sideways.


> your life will be so simple if you learn styles...

Styles do indeed help a lot. They just haven't helped with this 
particular problem. The challenge may be unique to this printer, and not 
an issue with OOo at all.

Thanks for the effort,

Bruce