What is a PCL file? A PCL file is a digital printed document created in the Printer Command Language (PCL) page description language. It describes the layout of text and graphics for the document. The PCL format was originally used by Hewlett-Packard printers in the 1980s and is now used by HP LaserJet printers and others. PCL is widely-used but offers fewer features than the PostScript ( .PS ) format.

More Information PCL files can be created from the Windows print dialog by redirecting the print output to a file using a compatible PCL driver . They can also be created in Unix systems by redirecting the printer queue to a file. PCL files can be printed to any HP LaserJet printer by opening the Windows command prompt and typing print file.pcl . In Unix, you can type lpr file.pcl .