This facility is only available for PCLXL (PCL6) files where the "Print to ANY Windows Printer" chargeable option is included in their FormTrap system. Files must be generated through a queue with a Data File showing the PCLXL (PCL6) symbol. 

To print to other Windows printers, use a filter for each different printer you want to print to.

The table shows relative file sizes from which the demands of the process, especially for PostScript, is shown. Converted files are larger by a factor of 20 - 30 over the equivalent direct outputs, although the PDF file produced from PostScript is still small and efficient.

A four page “Accounts Report” formatted with FormTrap in Arial True Type font, compressed down from a seven page original was used as the text file. The form file and data files may be downloaded from here:

Download of PCLXL-to-Any-Windows.zip

Printer used is an HP Color LaserJet 4600 printed in B&W with no logos:

Print Language	File size - Bytes
Original Text File	34,025
PCL5	172,761
PCLXL (PCL6)	305,708
PostScript	351,542
PDF from PostScript	74,128

Converted via printer drivers from the original PCLXL (PCL6) file via filter:

Original PCLXL (PCL6)	305,708
to PCL	5,599,651
to PostScript	10,074,461
to PDF from PostScript from PCLXL	142,213
to PCLXL	632,033

Filters are required to print to other windows printers from PCLXL (PCL6). Please set up individual filters for each printer you wish to use. PostScript output can also be set up this way (at around 30 times the size, with corresponding processing time).

1. Open the Filters tab and select the PCLXL to Printer filter as a model.

2. Go to Start, Printers and Faxes, select the required printer and go to Properties. Select the printer name as shown and copy the name.

3. Set up a new Filter. Paste the copied name in place of the printer name in Description and Arguments. If the printer is via a Print Server (on Plato in the example), include that into the printer name, as \\server\ (\\plato\ below).

4. Replace Printer in the Name with a modified version with no slashes (and short enough to be able to see all the description). This is the final Filter:

5. Replace Input type with pclxl and Output type with the appropriate extension from the drop down list, or with prn.

6. Check these under Output type:

Check status

Require output

Use standard input/output

Hide console

Hide GUI should be Unticked

7. Save to record this as a new filter.

You can set up as many different filters as there are printers you want to print to.

Your queue must have a PCLXL (PCL6) Data Folder selected, PCLXL is represented as this symbol:

In the Print tab:

Select the printer from the list and select the corresponding Filter from the list. Apply to finish.