9.3 Installing the Software

PPD (PostScript printer description) is the computer language that describes the properties, like resolution, and options, such as the availability of a duplex unit. These descriptions are required for using various printer options in CUPS. Without a PPD file, the print data would be forwarded to the printer in a raw state, which is usually not desired. During the installation of openSUSE, many PPD files are preinstalled.

To configure a PostScript printer, the best approach is to get a suitable PPD file. Many PPD files are available in the package manufacturer-PPDs, which is automatically installed within the scope of the standard installation. See Section 9.7.2, PPD Files in Various Packages and Section 9.8.2, No Suitable PPD File Available for a PostScript Printer.

New PPD files can be stored in the directory /usr/share/cups/model/ or added to the print system with YaST (as described in Adding Drivers with YaST, (↑ Start-Up )). Subsequently, the PPD file can be selected during the installation.

Be careful if a printer manufacturer wants you to install entire software packages in addition to modifying configuration files. First, this kind of installation would result in the loss of the support provided by openSUSE and, second, print commands may work differently and the system may no longer be able to address devices of other manufacturers. For this reason, the installation of manufacturer software is not recommended.