DIP switches

Small switches in a printer that control various printer functions and set the default status of the printer when it is turned on or initialized. DIP stands for dual inline package.

dot matrix

A method of printing in which each letter or symbol is formed by a pattern (matrix) of individual dots.

draft

One of three print qualities available on your printer. Draft uses less dots per character for faster printing. See also high-speed draft and near letter

quality.

ESC (escape)

A special control code used to begin most printer commands.

ESC/P

Abbreviation for Epson Standard Code for Printers (read E-S-C-P), a system of commands that lets you control your printer using your computer’s software. The system is standard for all Epson printers and supported by most software programs for personal computers.

font

A style of type designated by a family name, such as Epson Roman or Epson Sans Serif.

hex dump

A troubleshooting feature that helps advanced users detect the cause of communication problems between the printer and computer. When the printer is in hex dump mode, it prints each code that it receives in hexadecimal notation and ASCII code. Also called data dump.

high-speed draft

One of three print qualities available on your printer. High-speed draft uses a minimum number of dots per character to produce extremely high-speed printing. See also draft and near letter quality.

initialize

To establish the initial default status of the printer by turning the printer on or sending an INIT signal.

input buffer See memory.

interface

The connection between the computer and the printer. A parallel interface transmits data one character or code at a time, and a serial interface transmits data one bit at a time.

G L - 2 G l o s s a r y