Custom page size results in blank page

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Level 1

8 points

Custom page size results in blank page

I have a networked HP Color Laserjet 2605dn printer and have some 7.25"x5.25" envelopes that I need to print addresses on. So, I created a FileMaker database and went to print them with a custom page size I created and only get blank pages. If I change the page size to US Letter, it's OK, but obviously, the text appears in the wrong place. I used a different application Intaglio to see if it's a FileMaker issue or Mac OS issue and the problem occurs with Intaglio, also.

Just to be sure, I have re-installed the most recent HP driver (4.3.5.153) and there's still no difference. I do have the proper driver selected. The Generic Postscript driver does not appear to allow custom page sizes. I'm led to believe the HP driver may simply not support custom page sizes. Looks like I might have to use a Windows system to print these???? What a shame.

MBP 2.2 Core 2 Duo, Mac OS X (10.5.7)

Posted on May 26, 2009 9:34 AM

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Answer 1

PAHU

Level 6

16,723 points

May 26, 2009 7:58 PM in response to CTM

You may find that this a printer limitation rather than a driver issue. Is the envelope size you are using a supported size by the printer? If not, the envelope could be printing blank because the X-Y coordinates for the start of the text are based on a different size to the one you are loading into the printer. This would cause the text to print to a section that the envelope doesn't cover.

Some printers make you select a free-size setting for non-supported sizes and then rely on the driver to write the text onto the correct spot. Do you have such an option.

PaHu

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Answer 2

CTM Author

Level 1

8 points

May 28, 2009 11:27 AM in response to PAHU

I'm not sure how to determine if this is a "supported" size. I did transfer my FileMaker database to a Windows machine and created a custom page size in Windows to print to the printer. It works just fine. Therefore, this would appear to be a HP driver issue....right?

I don't see a "free-size setting" in the driver. Ergo, I'm assuming it's not an option.

Just tried to print this form on a different printer, HP Color Laserjet 3800, and it worked fine! Yikes!!! I'm using the same driver on my Mac, I believe.

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Answer 3

May 28, 2009 12:25 PM in response to CTM

You could try the PostScript PPD file from the openprinting.org site at http://openprinting.org/foomatic-db/db/source/PPD/HP/HPColor_LaserJet2605.ppd

That does allow for custom paper sizes with the constraints:
Smallest = 3x5, Largest = 8.5 x 14

Actually, this may be the same PPD that HP has provided for OS X. The only way to tell if it makes a difference is to try it.

Matt

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