foo2qpdl

foo2qpdl [options] < input_file > output_file

-d
    Specifies the output resolution in dpi (dots per inch). Common values are 300, 600, or 1200.

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

-p
    Specifies the dimensions of the output page in pixels. Can sometimes override the -m option if necessary.

-r
    Reverse order of pages, last page first.

-n
    Specifies the number of copies to print.

The foo2qpdl command is a print filter that converts standard print data, such as PostScript or text, into a format suitable for certain printers, primarily those based on the QPDL (Quick Printer Description Language) used by some Konica Minolta and possibly other printers. It typically works in conjunction with the Ghostscript rasterizer (gs) to convert the input into a bitmap image and then translates this image into QPDL commands for the target printer.
It is a crucial component of the foo2zjs printer driver suite, which aims to provide open-source drivers for printers where the manufacturer only provides proprietary, often Windows-specific, drivers. This filter is not a standalone command intended to be executed directly by the user, but rather invoked by the printing system, such as CUPS, when a print job is sent to a printer that requires it.

foo2qpdl is rarely used directly by users. It is usually called by the printing system. The available options depend on the specific version and printer configuration. Consult the driver documentation for exact usage.

The command uses environment variables such as PAGER, PAPERSIZE, and PRINTER, though their interpretation may vary across distributions.

foo2qpdl is part of the foo2zjs project, initiated to provide open-source printer drivers for printers lacking official Linux support. The development was driven by reverse engineering and community contributions. The aim was to allow users to print using non-supported models, thus increasing the lifespan of printing hardward. The foo2zjs package and its components, including foo2qpdl, have seen active development and maintenance over time to support a growing number of printer models.

gs(1), lpr(1), lp(1)