How to Print to Network Printer from MS-DOS-Based Programs

 Last reviewed: October 20, 1997
Article ID: Q154498
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT operating system version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5, 3.51, and 4.0

SUMMARY

This article describes how to print to a network printer from an MS-DOS- based program in Windows NT. By default, most MS-DOS-based programs print directly to either LPT1 or LPT2. However, the output is not automatically routed across a redirector to a print share unless you use one of the following methods.

MORE INFORMATION

Method 1

Establish a persistent connection using NET.EXE. To do so, use the following syntax at a command prompt: 

   net use lpt<x>: \\<printserver>\<sharename> /persistent:yes

Method 2

Print directly to the printer share by using the following syntax at a command prompt: 

   print /d:\\<printserver>\<sharename> <drive>:\<path>\<filename>

MORE INFORMATION

When printing to a Novell Netware 3.12 printer queue, use the following syntax: 

   net use lpt<x> \\server\queue
If the LPT port is redirected successfully, the following message should appear: 

   The command completed successfully
To disconnect persistent LPTx connections, use the following syntax: 

   net use lpt<x> /delete
Netware is manufactured by Novell, Inc., a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding this product's performance or reliability.

Additional query words: prodnt 3.10 3.50 3.51 4.00 capture port LPT1 LPT2
LPT3
Keywords : nthowto ntprint kbenv kbprint
Version : WinNT:3.1,3.5,3.51,4.0
Platform : winnt
Issue type : kbref

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Last reviewed: October 20, 1997
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