---
name: "lptest"
section: "1"
platform: "freebsd"
package: "base"
version: "16.0-CURRENT-20261027-61c70dc16a79"
release: "FreeBSD 16.0-CURRENT (2026-10-27)"
platforms: ["linux", "freebsd"]
url: "https://new.carta.tech/lptest"
---

# lptest(1)

generate lineprinter ripple pattern

## NAME

**lptest** – generate lineprinter ripple pattern

## SYNOPSIS

**lptest** \[*length*\] \[*count*\]

## DEPRECATION NOTICE

This facility is scheduled for removal prior to the release of FreeBSD 16.0.

## DESCRIPTION

The **lptest** utility writes the traditional "ripple test" pattern on standard output. In 96 lines, this pattern will print all 96 printable ASCII characters in each position. While originally created to test printers, it is quite useful for testing terminals, driving terminal ports for debugging purposes, or any other task where a quick supply of random data is needed.

The *length* argument specifies the output line length if the default length of 79 is inappropriate.

The *count* argument specifies the number of output lines to be generated if the default count of 200 is inappropriate. Note that if *count* is to be specified, *length* must be also be specified.

## HISTORY

A **lptest** utility appeared in 4.3BSD.