How to Fix PDF Printer Error Invalidfont Offending Command Cshow
Question details
Users encounter an 'invalidfont: offending command cshow' PostScript error when attempting to print a PDF document.
- Product
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Sending a PDF file to a physical printer for printing.
- Observed behavior
- The printer fails to print the document and outputs an error page stating 'invalidfont' and 'offending command cshow'.
Ensure your printer is properly connected and try printing a simple text document to confirm the issue is isolated to the specific PDF file or your PostScript print driver.
Change the Printer PostScript Language Level
Older printers may struggle with newer PostScript Level 3 commands. Downgrading the driver setting to Level 2 often resolves the 'cshow' invalidfont error.
This is particularly effective for legacy printer models (such as older Lexmark printers) that do not fully support modern PostScript Language Level 3.
Navigate to 'Printers & scanners' in your system settings, select the problematic printer, and open 'Printer properties'.
Click on the 'Device Settings' or 'Advanced' tab within the properties window.
Locate the 'PostScript Language Level' option, change the value from '3' to '2', and click 'OK' to save the changes.
Open your PDF file again and send it to the printer to verify if the error is resolved.
Print the PDF as an Image
If changing the PostScript level doesn't work, printing the document as an image bypasses font processing entirely.
Update Printer Drivers and Firmware
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers can cause PostScript handling failures. Updating them ensures maximum format compatibility.
Easily Bypass PDF Print Errors with WPS Office
WPS Office provides a robust, built-in PDF reader that processes complex embedded fonts effortlessly. If you continuously face PostScript errors with other software, switching to WPS Office allows you to utilize advanced print features, like 'Print as Image', ensuring your documents print perfectly every time.
- 1. Open PDF in WPS: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF file that is causing the printing error.
- 2. Access Print Settings: Click the 'Print' icon on the top toolbar or press Ctrl+P to open the print dialog.
- 3. Select Print as Image: Check the 'Print as Image' option to bypass printer font processing completely.
- 4. Print Document: Click the 'Print' button to send the rasterized document successfully to your printer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the 'invalidfont offending command cshow' error?
This error occurs when your printer's PostScript interpreter receives a font command from the PDF that it doesn't recognize or support. It is typically caused by incompatible font embedding, outdated printer firmware, or unsupported PostScript language levels.
Why does the PDF print fine on one printer but fail on another?
Different printer models use different drivers and PostScript interpreters. An older printer might only process PostScript Level 2 commands, failing when it receives a Level 3 command from a modern PDF, whereas a newer printer handles it seamlessly.
Does flattening a PDF help with printer font errors?
Yes. Flattening a PDF converts textual elements and transparent layers into a single background image. This prevents the printer from needing to interpret complex font files, directly resolving 'invalidfont' errors.
