Randy Smith wrote:
> I see a list in HPENV.SYS that looks like:
> ELITE2X  ELITE4  ELITE450  ELITE50  GOTH88A  GOTH88E
>
> Aside from using each of these files, how can I find out what they
> will make the print look like?  I checked LaserRom, but it didn't
> help.  Could someone enlighten me?

HP-supplied environments are defined in the IFS manual; dunno if it is
on laserROM or not.  At any rate, they won't help you...

The vanilla ELITE/ELITE2/ELITE4 and related files are 2680 environment
files; the 'X' and '88' ones are for a 2688; both ancient.  Some of the
environments (the 2680 ones?) were updated for the HP 5000-series of
printers (high-end 135/150/etc, not C30/C40/640D) unless they pulled
some special stunt I'm unaware of.  None can be used with LaserJets or
the LaserJet-emulating C30/C40/C40D.

If you have Unison's Formation, you can alter your PENV files to support
laserjets (if you bought the 2680 support piece of the code; if not then
you can create PENV files for Laserjets but not 2680/88).

You can also control laserjets with TTYPE files with suitable setup
strings IF you are printing to serially connected printers.  Some third
party vendors also use TTYPE files (ESPUL from RAC has some, and even
extends to special TTYPE files only for use with their network
printing).

HP Network Printing also allows for "environment" files (any file with
an fcode < 1024) which contain raw PCL setup strings; but they support
neither PENV nor TTYPE files in a traditional sense.

Right now, it's a jungle out there; and I've only introduced two
additional vendors.  It's back to the old printer compatibility issues
that I alluded to a few days ago, and it's not fun.  I've fought it off
and on for this calendar year and still have unsettled issues.

Jeff Kell <[log in to unmask]>