DTPrinter - An implementation of Desktop Printers for System 7.0
History
When Apple first introduced System 7 at the 1989 Developer's Conference, it included something called the 'New Print Architecture'. One of the really cool parts of the NPA were 'Desktop Printers'. This allowed you to have an icon on your desktop which represented a particular printer. You could then drag a document onto the particular printer icon, and it would print to that printer. Very useful when you have multiple Laserwriters, a Fax Modem, Print to Disk utility, etc.
Well, the NPA disappeared, and with it 'Desktop Printers'....In order to correct this MAJOR oversight, I wrote DTPrinter which implements 'Desktop Printers' NOW under System 7.
Usage
Make a copy of the original DTPrinter application. Double click on the application and choose 'Customize╔' from the File Menu. You can the select the type of printer and in the case of networked printers like the Laserwriter, the individual printer. Click OK to okay the printer choice and then quit. The application will have been renamed with the prefix 'DTP/' followed by the name (or type) of the printer you choose, and well as having the appropriate icon.
At that point simply drag documents onto your new 'Desktop Printer'...You will see a window letting you know the printer is being set up, and then the document's owner will be launched and you will be presented with the Printer Dialog of your choice. Choose Print and all is well!
Distribution Notes
I hereby give permission for this 'hack' to be distributed in any collection of software which is not charged for. User groups such as BMUG and BCS which charge only for disk duplication may also distribute. Electronic services (CIS, GEnie, etc.) may also distribute it, as long as they respect MY copyright!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
