line feed

A control code and a panel button that advance the paper one line space.

loading position

The position to which the paper is automatically loaded. It can be adjusted with the micro-feed feature.

micro feed

A feature that adjusts the paper loading and tear-off positions.

parallel interface

See interface.

platen

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

proportional printing

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

RAM

Random Access Memory. The portion of the printer’s memory used as a buffer and for storing user-defined characters. All data stored in RAM is lost when the printer is turned off.

reset

To return a printer to its defaults by sending a command or an INIT signal or by turning the printer off and then back on.

self test

A method for checking the operation of the printer. When the self test is run, the printer prints out its current DIP switch settings and the characters that are stored in its ROM.

Glossary GL-5