ARCHIVED: What is LaserWriter 8?

Note: This information does not apply to Mac OS X.

LaserWriter 8 is the PostScript printer driver software for Mac OS. It is part of a standard install of Mac OS and is based on the original LaserWriter printer driver developed by Adobe and Apple for use with Apple LaserWriter PostScript printers. The software has been revised several times, but still maintains the LaserWriter 8 designation. Although Apple no longer manufactures printers, the LaserWriter 8 software can be used with any laser printer that adheres to standard PostScript specifications.

LaserWriter 8 works in conjunction with a PPD, or printer page description file, selected when the printer is set up using the classic Mac OS Chooser. The PPD file for a particular printer allows the software to take advantage of the unique capabilities of the printer, including paper size, multiple trays, fonts installed on the printer, color, and resolution settings. When setting up a PostScript printer, a generic PPD file will usually work, although the special features of a printer model may not be available. Although many PPD files are included with LaserWriter 8, you may still need to install PPD files for a specific printer. PPD files are usually available on the installation disks that come with the printer, or from the printer manufacturer's web site.

Adobe maintains PostScript printing software, called AdobePS, which is equivalent to Apple's LaserWriter 8. You can download AdobePS from Abode's web site at: http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/detail.jsp?hexID=60ca

Also see:

• What is a PDF file?
• For Mac OS X, what are Quartz and Quartz Extreme?