When you continue the test, the program checks that the printer is responding correctly. This test detects whether the printer is offline or whether an interface error exists. If no errors occur, the computer sends a repeating sequence of ASCII characters and bit-image data to the printer until you press any key. The pattern looks like this:

The text data includes all the characters commonly used by programs that require foreign languages or graphic characters. If your printer prints different characters than you see in the illustration, you may need to be careful with certain software. The bit-image data is sent to the printer using a command (ESC K) compatible with Epson and IBM printers.

Note

Even if the test runs only for a short time, your printer may store many characters in its buffer. To stop printing, set the printer offline.

C-32 Performing System Diagnostics