What is a prn file?

Okay, here's information about PRN files in Markdown format with linked keywords:

A PRN file is essentially a **[*print file*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/print%20file)**, also known as a plotter file. It contains pre-formatted instructions for a printer or plotter.

*   **Purpose:** Instead of sending raw data that the printer needs to interpret, a PRN file tells the **[*printer*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/printer)** exactly how to print the document, including details like fonts, layout, and graphics.

*   **Content:** It is commonly found to consist of a sequence of **[*escape codes*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/escape%20codes)** and binary data, representing precise printer commands. The specific codes used depend on the printer's language (e.g., PCL, PostScript).

*   **Usage:**  PRN files are generated when you choose to "print to file" instead of sending the print job directly to a printer. This is useful for:

    *   Troubleshooting **[*printing issues*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/printing%20issues)**.
    *   Replicating print jobs on different printers of the same model.
    *   Archiving print jobs.
    *   Sending print jobs to printers that are not directly connected to your computer.

*   **Opening:** You generally *cannot* directly open and read a PRN file in a standard text editor. Its content is meant for a **[*printer driver*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/printer%20driver)** to interpret. To "open" it, you typically send it to a printer using a command-line utility (like `copy /b file.prn LPT1:`) or a printer management tool.
*   **Creation:** PRN files are made from the "Print to File" option in the print dialog menu. Choose a program and then select "Print". Pick a **[*printer driver*](https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/printer%20driver)** and in the same menu mark "Print to File" and save it with a `.prn` extension.