test printing in VB

i am developing a small app in VB and i want 2 include printing facilities. i need to see the output layout on paper before i compile my app, but i don't have a printer. armed with an HP Deskjet 680C disk, i installed the printer but its going send its output 2 a file(*.prn).
please, will opening this *.prn file display how it is going 2 look like on a hardcopy? and how can i open this file. please stop by to give me any idea and if you feel i can not open the file 2 get a glimse of the hardcopy, just echo back "blaaa" 2 me, and if you've got no idea then continue with other threads.

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Originally posted by oyad
i am developing a small app in VB and i want 2 include printing facilities. i need to see the output layout on paper before i compile my app, but i don't have a printer. armed with an HP Deskjet 680C disk, i installed the printer but its going send its output 2 a file(*.prn).
please, will opening this *.prn file display how it is going 2 look like on a hardcopy? and how can i open this file. please stop by to give me any idea and if you feel i can not open the file 2 get a glimse of the hardcopy, just echo back "blaaa" 2 me, and if you've got no idea then continue with other threads.

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Not sure how to open a .PRN file but if the output data is just text then u can install a printer which can give u a .DOC file...

Just start the Add New Printer wizard and choose local printer. When asked for PORT scroll down to last or second last and choose FILE (Print to File). From the list of printers choose GENERIC and the printer model.

Other way is if you have ADOBE Acrobat Full installed then you can automatically print those as an .PDF file...

Hope this is helpful...

Cheers...

thanks, i'll be trying your tip this evening but what i am about to print is all the contents on a form(labels-texts and MAY include pictures). i added the print to file printer the same way but it only saves the print file in a *.prn format which i can not open( if i trying opening this *.prn i see characters that am sure are not on your keyboard:rolleyes: )
i'll see you again
i appreciate your concern

Quote:

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Originally posted by oyad
thanks, i'll be trying your tip this evening but what i am about to print is all the contents on a form(labels-texts and MAY include pictures). i added the print to file printer the same way but it only saves the print file in a *.prn format which i can not open( if i trying opening this *.prn i see characters that am sure are not on your keyboard:rolleyes: )
i'll see you again
i appreciate your concern

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Then the best bet is to install and use ADOBE Distiller...Which will give you all the graphics u need in .PDF format...

Beware that u need to install ADOBE Acrobat not just the reader...

Cheers...