DensePrint is a Macintosh printing utility that prints text files with embedded carriage returns (such as source code) in a multiple column format that squeezes more performance out of high-density printers. In addition, it offers such features as user-selectable font and sizes, “font-sizing insight,” binding margins, and other helpful formatting tools.
DensePrint’s capabilities are fully realized when small fonts or reduction are used. I originally designed it so that I could print two columns of source code per side of paper at “50% reduction” using my HP DeskJet printer. Doing so allows me to print eight times as much on each sheet of paper when using both sides, making large hard copy libraries MUCH more manageable. More importantly, the code is actually EASIER to read, since there are fewer page breaks interrupting the procedural logic. (This was an unexpected though welcomed effect.)
While designed and particularly well suited for high density printers such as the Apple LaserWriter series and the HP DeskJet/DeskWriter series, it also works with a common ImageWriter I or II, though you will probably wish for higher pixel density than impact printers can support.
The binding-oriented features of DensePrint make it ideal for keeping a “sourcebook” for each of your projects, since printing each page at 50% using two columns takes one eighth of the paper that full-width at 100% does.
Laser and InkJet printers are even capable of printing at 25% using four columns, to produce up to 32 effective pages per sheet of paper. In practice, however, this tends to be difficult to read.
• Future Enhancements?
The future of this program depends in part on the responses I receive. If a reasonable number of people contribute for the use of this application, I will continue enhancing DensePrint--otherwise, who knows?
Possible enhancements include the following:
+ Style sheets
+ User-defined margins
+ An option to “auto-word-wrap” files without embedded carriage returns
+ A facility to output and/or print this internally stored documentation
+ Background batch printing
- Storing and retrieving commonly printed batch lists
+ Better support for printing using “both sides” of the paper
+ Enhanced support for specific printers (as requested by YOU)
- Such as better support for ImageWriter “draft” mode.
• The DensePrint Shareware License
For information regarding restrictions on the distribution of DensePrint, see the “Copyright/Disclaimer” option on the popup menu above.
You may use DensePrint free of any compulsory charge. If, after using it for a time period which you decide is reasonable, you decide to continue using DensePrint, you are on your honor to send me $10, or what you think it’s worth.
If you decide to continue using DensePrint but do not wish to send a shareware fee, you may, as a contribution, write something useful and distribute it as free or shareware. Doing this will leave your honor unscathed, and will help promote shareware as a viable alternative and enhancement to commercial software.
Send contributions to:
Chally Micro Solutions
P.O. Box 4600
West Covina, CA 91791
The AppleBus BBS
Sysop, Mark Chally (me)
818-919-5459
GEnie, MCI Mail, MacNet: “CHALLY”
The Macintosh world is something really special, and I’m happy to be a part of it. Thanks to all of you who have “done your part”.
Mark Chally
(For a menu of other topics, select the shadowed box above titled “About DensePrint.”)
