User-defined Characters

The FX has a command that allows you to define and print characters of your own design. You can design an entirely new alphabet or typeface, create mathematical or scientific symbols, or create graphic patterns to serve as building blocks for larger designs. These user-defined characters work only in draft mode.

Also, you can buy commercial software programs that assist you in creating characters or supply you with sets of characters already created. In addition, some popular application packages make use of the user-defined character function to enhance printouts. (These characters are called download characters in some programs.)

The printout below shows a few user-defined characters to give you an idea of what can be done, but remember that you can create what you need or want.

When you define a character of your own, the definition is stored in temporary memory (RAM). The original character with the same code remains in the printer’s permanent memory (ROM) and you can print either of them when needed.

Design grids

The process of defining a character is much like printing dot graphics because you send the printer precise instructions on where you want each dot printed. In fact, planning a user-defined character is like planning a small dot graphics pattern.

To design a character you use a grid that has nine rows and eleven columns. Figure 5-5 on the next page shows three of these grids. Most characters do not use the two rows below the heavy line. Those rows are only for characters with descenders, like y and g. Also, even though you can use up to 11 columns, it is best to leave the last two blank for the space between characters.

The grid in the middle of Figure 5-5 shows a plan for a character. Although there are nine pins in the FX print head, you can use only eight of them in a single user-defined character. The design in

Graphics and User-defined Characters

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