ERROR

Unable to open pltque file

Last Published: April 25, 2020

Error Message

At the Arc prompt, the PLOT <graphics_file> command returns:

Code:
Unable to open pltque file.

Cause

The pltque file does not exist at all, or if it does, it is not in a location ArcInfo can access, or the file contents are not in the correct format.

Solution or Workaround



  1. Check the $HOME and $ARCHOME/sysgen directories for the pltque file. At the Arc prompt type:

    Code:
    ls $HOME/pltque
    ls $ARCHOME/sysgen/pltque

    If it does not exist, create it with a text editor. See step three.

    Note:
    A pltque file in the $HOME directory will be used before the one in $ARCHOME/sysgen.

  2. On systems running multiple installations of ArcInfo, it is possible the pltque file is in a different $ARCHOME location from the one you are using. Check the various $ARCHOME locations your system may have. If you find a pltque file, copy it to the location that corresponds with the installation you are using.

    Note:
    See your system administrator for assistance with this.

  3. Verify the pltque file has four lines for each output device as follows:

    Line 1: (Destination) The name of the device as it appears in the PLOT dialog box.

    Line 2: (Mode) How and where your map is translated to a native printer language (direct, filtered, or serveware).

    Line 3: (Queue) The name of the spooling queue that directs your map to the correct device. This queue is used by the operating system commands lp or lpr. Use lpstat -a to view queues recognized by your system.

    Line 4: (AML) Reference to an AML that provides a PLOT interface menu for each printer driver translator. It allows you to select printer-specific parameters and to send the file to the printer. Default amls are located in the $ARCHOME/atool/support/plotsupport directory.

    Here is a sample pltque file:

    cal5800 (CalComp 58000 plotter)
    direct
    cal5800
    $ARCHOME/atool/support/plotsupport/cal5835.aml

    For more details, see the ArcDoc topic "Creating the plot queue file" found under Contents > System Administration > System Setup > Setting up and customizing the plot system > (your UNIX platform).

Article ID:000002420

Software:
  • Legacy Products
  • ArcMap 8 x

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