foo2oak

foo2oak [-P] [-L] [-z#] [-s#] [-m size] [-p paper] [-n #] [-t#] [-d#] [-v] [file ...]

-P
    Print PPD file and exit

-L
    List available media sizes

-z#
    Set resolution (e.g., 0=300x300, 1=600x600 dpi)

-s#
    Set screen angle (0=normal, 1=reverse)

-m size
    Set media size (e.g., Letter, A4)

-p paper
    Set paper type (plain, glossy, etc.)

-n #
    Set number of copies

-t#
    Set toner density (0-100)

-d#
    Set debug level

-v
    Verbose output

The foo2oak command is an open-source printer driver designed for HP LaserJet printers using Oak Technology's imaging format, such as the LaserJet 1000, 1005, 1010, 1012, 1018, 1020, and 1022 series. It converts standard PostScript or PDF input (via Ghostscript) into the proprietary printer data stream required by these devices.

This driver is part of the broader foo2zjs suite, providing essential support for non-PostScript HP inkjets and lasers on Linux and Unix-like systems. It functions as a filter, typically invoked by the CUPS printing system via the foo2oak-wrapper script, which handles PPD files, options, and Ghostscript invocation.

Key features include support for resolutions up to 600x600 dpi, duplex printing, multiple media sizes, and toner density control. Users must install the foo2zjs package, firmware files (often extracted from Windows drivers), and Ghostscript. It's widely used in Linux distributions for legacy HP printers lacking official Unix drivers.

Requires Ghostscript and printer firmware (.sfp files); limited to specific HP models; use foo2oak-wrapper for CUPS integration; output not human-readable.

foo2oak -z1 -mLetter input.ps > output.prn
Prints at 600dpi on Letter media.

Download HP1018.sfp or similar from foo2zjs site; place in /usr/share/foo2zjs/.

Developed by Till Kamppeter in 2004 as part of the foo2zjs project to reverse-engineer HP's proprietary formats. Integrated into major distros like Ubuntu and Fedora; actively maintained on SourceForge.

foo2zjs(1), foo2hp(1), gs(1), lp(1)