Here is a list that summarizes how Desktop Printing uses directories:
- A directory is created for each Desktop Printer. These directories are normal HFS directories with the exception of the icon and window in the Finder, and the items stored within it.
- DTP directories show up in the sfgetfile (File-Open dialog) and sfputfile (File-Save) dialogs.
- Any non-spool files placed into these directories WILL NOT be accessible in the Finder until Desktop Printing is disabled. This is because Desktop Printing is able to tell the Finder what to show and what not to show.
- Any non-spool files placed into these directories ARE accessible through sfgetfile/sfputfile. However, Apple recommends not using these directories to store non-spool files since files will not show up in the Finder.
- If Desktop Printing is disabled, the desktop printer directories show up with an "X" through them, although they will behave exactly like a folder (subdirectory).
- Future versions of Desktop Printing will place any unrecognized files on the desktop and alert you accordingly, as well as hide these Desktop Printing directories better, even from within sfgetfile/sfputfile.
- With Desktop Printing v2.1, any attempts to save non-spool files into Desktop Printers, through the Standard File Dialog, automatically moves the file to the desktop.