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Printer data

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Printer data refers to the digital information or commands sent from a software application or computer system to a printer to produce a physical printed output. This data includes the content to be printed (text, images, graphics) and the instructions on how to render that content (formatting, layout, print quality, color settings). Beyond the data sent for printing, printer activity encompasses the overall operational status and events related to the printer’s functioning.

Printer data typically includes:

  • Raw print data: Text or image content in formats like ASCII or bitmap
  • Page Description Languages (PDL): Data in PostScript or PCL describing page layout and graphics
  • Print job metadata: Settings such as number of copies, duplex mode, paper size, and print quality
  • Printer control commands: Instructions for paper feed, toner usage, and finishing options
  • Spool files: Temporarily stored print jobs in the spooler queue
  • Error codes and alerts: Specific codes or messages indicating printer faults or warnings
  • Status updates: Real-time information on printer readiness or error states
  • Event logs: Records of printer activities and errors for troubleshooting and auditing

Before looking at documentation for specific data sources, review the Splunk Docs information on general data ingestion: 

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