In Mathematica, how can I save and print a graphic?

Following is an example of saving a graphic, converting it to PostScript, and printing it in Mathematica:

1. Within Mathematica, enter the following command, which will generate the graphic to be saved: myplot = Plot[x^2, {x,-2,2}]
2. You can do the next step in one of two ways; one requires you to issue a command at the Unix prompt, while the other involves writing a function in Mathematica:
   
   
   • Method 1: Within Mathematica, enter this command: Display["foo.ps", myplot ]

     At the Unix prompt, enter:

     psfix < foo.ps > plot.ps

     The result will be a usable file named plot.ps.

   • Method 2: Within Mathematica, enter the following commands: PSFile[gr_,fn_String] := Display["!" <> $TopDirectory <> "/SystemFiles/Graphics/SystemResources/psfix > " <> fn, gr] PSFile[myplot, "plot.ps"]

     As in Method 1, the result will be a usable file named plot.ps.

3. After either of these, you can print the result by entering at the Unix prompt: lpr -P yourprinter plot.ps

   Replace yourprinter with the name of the printer you wish to use (for example, sb231ps ).

For more information about statistical and mathematical software, email the UITS Stat/Math Center, visit the center's web page, or phone 812-855-4724 (IUB) or 317-278-4740 (IUPUI). The center is located in Bloomington at 410 N. Park Avenue, and is open for consultation by appointment Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

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