14.2. Configure a new printer

Click on Printer->Add (Alt-P-Alt-A)

Which will begin the new printer wizard, to go from one step to the next one, click the Next > button. After an introductory screen, you will be presented the list of available connections (figure 14-2). We assume here that you have a local printer connected to the parallel port (the most common scenario). Choose the connection that fits the printer you are trying to install, and move on to the next step.

Figure 14-2. The printer connection type

Note

Besides parallel port printers, you have also available; USB serial port printers, as well as Samba printers (managed by Windows servers or Samba servers, the Samba package has to be installed in that case) and Socket (direct Ethernet connection). For those two last connection types, CUPS automatically scans the whole network to propose you all available printers.

If all goes well, your printer model and port will be automatically detected (figure 14-3). If not, you will get a warning message. Simply click OK, and manually select the correct port and then the correct printer model in next screen.

Figure 14-3. The printer model and port

The next dialog will inform you that a driver is available for the detected printer (figure 14-4). If that fits your printer model, answer Yes. If not, you will be asked then to choose another model in the list presented.

Figure 14-4. Accept the printer driver

Finally, you need to provide a name for your printer, to identify it easily if you need so, and optionally a Printer description and a Physical location (figure 14-5).

Figure 14-5. Choose a name for your printer

A screen will sum-up all your choices (figure 14-6), review them carefully and press OK, or go back to a previous step with < Prev if you need to make some changes.

Figure 14-6. Confirm all parameters

As you launched Kups as a normal user, you are now asked for the root password (figure 14-7). Provide it and click OK and your printer is almost available...

Figure 14-7. Provide the root password

Your printer now appears on the list in the left of the main window.

Figure 14-8. A new printer is now configured

Right-click on the name of the printer, and on the menu that appears, choose Configure printer. In the dialog (figure 14-9), make sure that all parameters are correct, especially the paper size, change them if necessary, and click OK.

Figure 14-9. Tune options for new printer

Now select the desired printer as default with the same menu, and voilą! Your printer is ready to go!.


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