FAQ: Can RPM start and stop dynamically?

Question: Can RPM launch itself when a print job arrives?

Description: Since RPM takes resources when it is loaded into memory, and it does not receive print jobs constantly in my implementation, how do I make RPM launch itself when an incoming job arrives, then remove itself from memory after a given amount of time?

Answer: On Windows platforms, RPM must be running for printing to take place. Unix platforms have a program, typically called "inetd", that can detect incoming requests and launch a server application. Microsoft Windows does not currently support an "inetd" program or the ability to launch a program dynamically to handle requests in this manner.

On Windows 95/98/Me, place a shortcut to RPM in the startup folder. This ensures that RPM is running when the computer starts and can receive and process print jobs immediately.

On Windows NT/2000/XP, the RPM service starts automatically when the computer is booted. You should not place a shortcut to RPM.exe in the startup group. The RPM user interface for Elite and Select should be started manually only when required.