An arrangement is provided wherein a printer used with a host device is operated to generate print batch separator pages using the same blank sheets as are used to print respective pages of successive print jobs. The printer is directed to print a visually distinctive graphic indicator, such as a separator border, trim, header, visible banner or other visual indicator or markings. This eliminates the need for an additional printer separator page tray. Usefully, a host device is operated to generate a separator command in a specified PDL language. A printer control device receives the page separator PDL command, and software contained in the printer control converts the PDL command into a printer readable format (PRF). A printer component responsive to the PRF command then operates the printer to print the specified separator page.