How to print documents using Java?

Question

I have a requirement to print data exactly in a particular position in paper. How can these kind of formatting be done using Java?

Answer 1

Which kind of data ?

If it's form, the use of reporting library can help you:

• http://jasperforge.org/projects/jasperreports

If it's graphic you can try using 'raw' java api:

• http://download.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/2d/printing/printable.html

Answer 2

Jasper, iText will work for you.

Answer 3

Or use the Java print API:

http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/java/library/j-mer0322/index.html

http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/java/library/j-mer0424.html

Answer 4

If you really need full control, you can print Graphics2D objects directly. See http://java.sun.com/developer/onlineTraining/Programming/JDCBook/render.html and the next page.

Another possibility would be printing PDF, e.g. using iText. I think exact positioning is possible, but probably harder than using Graphics2D.