[HowTo] simple Win N00b guide how to add your printer and print

[Easthee]

Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆

Original post here

The following steps use a Ricoh printer as an example but skip to the bottom for other “not working” printers):

0. activate the AUR
   

   

1. Install the printer PPD (Postscript Printer Description):

   • from the App Store (PAMAC, GUI app) from the AUR repository:
     
     
     
     E.G.: http://aur.archlinux.org/packages/openprinting-ppds-pxlmono-ricoh
     OR
   • Download the PPD from a PPD respository:
     E.G. https://www.openprinting.org/ppd-o-matic.php?driver=pxlmono-Ricoh&printer=Ricoh-SP_320SFN&show=0

2. Go to your menu

3. Open printers

4. Click on Add
   

   

5. Click on your printer name under network but don’t let the Linux system fool you by the list of model numbers/drivers. Instead, close your eyes and go to manually add PPD file

6. load your downloaded file and boom you are ready to print.
   

   

This is for Ricoh but below are the RTFM and download sources that you should read and pick the right PPD / AUR package for the printer you need:

1. https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/CUPS/Printer-specific_problems

2. https://www.openprinting.org/drivers