Steam OS

Skybird · 02-17-25, 07:34 AM

^ You mean you cannot print normally under Steam OS, say an open office document or pdf or photo?

Or do you mean that printer drivers need to be manually installed, like under any Linux distribution when the printer brand does not provide native linux drivers? I use an Epson ET printer (it has native Linux support). Problems - or not?

ChatGPT:
SteamOS has a Desktop Mode that allows you to use the system like a regular Linux desktop operating system. By default, SteamOS starts in Big Picture Mode, which is focused on gaming and using Steam. However, if you need more control over your system or want to use software outside of Steam (like setting up printers or installing other programs), you can switch to Desktop Mode.
Here’s how to switch to Desktop Mode:

Open Steam and be in Big Picture Mode.
Press the "Steam" button on your controller or the equivalent button on your keyboard to open the menu.
Go to "Settings" and then choose "System".
There, you’ll find the "Desktop Mode" option. Select it to switch to Desktop Mode.

In Desktop Mode, you'll have access to a full Linux desktop environment, with a desktop, file manager, and all typical Linux tools. From here, you can install applications, set up printers, or perform other administrative tasks.
If you're familiar with Linux, you can use the standard tools to install printer drivers, or you can also use the terminal for tasks.

02-17-25, 07:34 AM	#8
Skybird Soaring Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: the mental asylum named Germany Posts: 42,635 Downloads: 10 Uploads: 0	^ You mean you cannot print normally under Steam OS, say an open office document or pdf or photo? Or do you mean that printer drivers need to be manually installed, like under any Linux distribution when the printer brand does not provide native linux drivers? I use an Epson ET printer (it has native Linux support). Problems - or not? ChatGPT: SteamOS has a Desktop Mode that allows you to use the system like a regular Linux desktop operating system. By default, SteamOS starts in Big Picture Mode, which is focused on gaming and using Steam. However, if you need more control over your system or want to use software outside of Steam (like setting up printers or installing other programs), you can switch to Desktop Mode. Here’s how to switch to Desktop Mode: Open Steam and be in Big Picture Mode. Press the "Steam" button on your controller or the equivalent button on your keyboard to open the menu. Go to "Settings"* and then choose "System".* There, you’ll find the "Desktop Mode"* option. Select it to switch to Desktop Mode.* In Desktop Mode, you'll have access to a full Linux desktop environment, with a desktop, file manager, and all typical Linux tools. From here, you can install applications, set up printers, or perform other administrative tasks. If you're familiar with Linux, you can use the standard tools to install printer drivers, or you can also use the terminal for tasks. __________________ If you feel nuts, consult an expert.