cupstestdsc

cupstestdsc [options]

-d printer
    Specifies the printer name to use for PPD (PostScript Printer Description) file lookup. This influences the raster format based on the printer's capabilities.

-n copies
    Sets the number of copies to print.

-o attribute=value
    Sets a printer attribute to a specific value. These attributes are defined in the PPD file or through CUPS configurations.

-p filename.ppd
    Specifies a PPD file to use. This overrides the printer database lookup and allows testing with specific printer configurations.

-r resolution
    Sets the raster resolution in dpi. For example, '300x300'.

-t title
    Sets the job title.

-h
    Displays help information.

The cupstestdsc command is a utility provided by the Common UNIX Printing System (CUPS). It serves as a test tool to convert data streams into printable raster format, leveraging CUPS's internal processing pipeline. This command is primarily intended for debugging and testing filter chains, enabling developers and administrators to verify that print jobs are being processed correctly. It takes data from standard input and outputs the converted raster data to standard output, allowing redirection to files for further examination.

While not typically used in everyday printing workflows, cupstestdsc is a valuable resource for troubleshooting print driver issues, examining the intermediate stages of print processing, and confirming the functionality of custom filters. Its use often involves understanding CUPS's internal data formats and filter mechanisms. It accepts several options to customize the output raster format and manage processing aspects like printer attributes. Remember that you need to have CUPS installed to use this command.

This command is primarily a testing tool and might not be directly applicable in production environments. Understanding the CUPS filtering architecture and PPD files is crucial for effective usage.

Example 1: Convert standard input to raster using the default printer:
cat input.ps | cupstestdsc > output.raster

Example 2: Convert input using a specific printer and resolution:
cat input.ps | cupstestdsc -d MyPrinter -r 600x600 > output.raster

Example 3: Use PPD file:
cat input.ps | cupstestdsc -p myprinter.ppd > output.raster

cupstestdsc has evolved as a utility integral to CUPS, mirroring the development and enhancements of the printing system itself. It provides developers a way to peer into the internal working of CUPS and test filter chains as CUPS evolved to support a wide range of devices.

lp(1), lpadmin(8), cupsfilter(1)