binary is base 2 and uses only the digits 0 and 1. All information in computer systems is handled in binary form represented by electrical signals that are on or off. A binary digit is often called a bit: any decimal number between 0 and 255 can be expressed by an eight-bit binary number.

on line

When the printer is on line, it is able to communicate with the computer connected to it.

paper-out sensor

A small switch behind the platen that sends a signal when it is not in contact with paper, informing the printer and remote computer that there is no paper loaded, and causing the PAPER OUT light to go on.

paper tension unit

The part of the printer that fits above the platen to assure proper paper tension in the printing area.

parallel interface

An interface that connects the computer and the printer. A parallel interface transmits data one character or code at a time. See also serial

interface.platen

The black roller that provides the backing for the paper during printing.

print quality

Your printer has two types of print quality; draft and Letter Quality. Draft is for high-speed, draft quality jobs; Letter Quality is used to produce more polished documents.

proportional printing

Printing in which the character width varies from character to character. For example, a capital W receives much more space than a lowercase i. The result looks more like a typeset book than a typewritten draft.

6Glossary