How to use Application.ActivePrinter in the xlwings API way

The ActivePrinter property of the Application object in Excel’s object model is accessible through the xlwings library, enabling Python scripts to retrieve or set the name of the currently active printer for the Excel application. This is particularly useful for automating print-related tasks, such as ensuring reports are sent to a specific printer without manual intervention, or for auditing and logging which printer is set as default within a workbook session. By using xlwings, you can integrate this Excel functionality directly into Python workflows, allowing for seamless control over printing configurations in automated processes.

Syntax in xlwings:
In xlwings, the ActivePrinter property is accessed through the app object, which represents the Excel application. The property is both readable and writable, meaning you can get the current printer name or change it programmatically. The syntax is straightforward:

• To get the active printer: app.active_printer
• To set the active printer: app.active_printer = "Printer Name"
  The property returns or accepts a string value representing the printer name. The name should match exactly as configured in the system, including any driver or port details if applicable. For example, on Windows, it might appear as “HP LaserJet on Ne00:” or a similar format. If the specified printer is not available, Excel may default to another or throw an error, so it’s advisable to verify printer availability beforehand.

Code Examples with xlwings:
Here are practical examples demonstrating how to use the ActivePrinter property in xlwings:

1. Retrieving the Current Active Printer:
   This example connects to a running Excel instance, retrieves the active printer name, and prints it to the console. It’s useful for diagnostics or logging.

import xlwings as xw
# Connect to the active Excel application
app = xw.apps.active
# Get the active printer name
current_printer = app.active_printer
print(f"The active printer is: {current_printer}")

2. Setting the Active Printer to a Specific Device:
   This example sets the active printer to a desired printer, such as “Brother MFC-L2750DW series Printer” on a Windows system. Ensure the printer name is accurate to avoid issues.

import xlwings as xw
# Start or connect to Excel
app = xw.App(visible=True) # Open Excel visibly
# Set the active printer
app.active_printer = "Brother MFC-L2750DW series Printer on Ne00:"
# Confirm the change by printing the updated name
print(f"Printer set to: {app.active_printer}")
# Perform other tasks, like printing a workbook
app.books.add().api.PrintOut() # Example print command
app.quit() # Close Excel

3. Switching Printers Based on Conditions:
   In automated reporting, you might switch printers depending on the document type. This example checks the current printer and changes it if needed.

import xlwings as xw
app = xw.apps.active
# Define printer names (adjust based on your setup)
default_printer = "Microsoft Print to PDF"
backup_printer = "HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 on Ne01:"
# Get current printer
if app.active_printer == default_printer:
    # Switch to backup for high-volume printing
    app.active_printer = backup_printer
    print(f"Switched to backup printer: {backup_printer}")
else:
    print(f"Using current printer: {app.active_printer}")