Appendix C— Communications Reference

Intermec Standard Protocol Printer Status Conditions (continued)

Printer Status

Character

Pin 11/20

Printing

DC1

Ready

 

 

 

Ready/Online

DC1

Ready

 

 

 

Note: Do not confuse the Buffer now full <DC3> status with the

XON/XOFF characters <DC1> and <DC3>.

When the printer returns Buffer Now Full (<DC3>) status, it accepts the currently received message block. At this time, the printer can accept short messages to allow parsing of immediate commands such as Reset (<DLE>) or Cancel Batch Printing (<EM>). However, if the printer responds with a <GS> to any message block, the buffer is already full and the printer discards the entire message block.

XON/XOFF Protocol (Software and Hardware Flow Control)

The XON/XOFF protocol stops the host from sending data when the printer buffer fills up and starts the host again when the buffer empties. When you select this protocol, you concurrently enable software and hardware flow control. Software flow control uses the ASCII characters <DC1> (XON) and <DC3> (XOFF) to start and stop the flow of data from the host to the printer. Hardware flow control uses pin 11 or pin 20 (internally connected together) on the printer’s serial port to indicate “Ready” or “Busy” for data flow control. As with Standard protocol, <STX> and <ETX> enclose data. Status responses conform to the table above except that <DC2> is substituted for <DC1> and <DC4> is substituted for <DC3>.

The printer does not restrict the message length for XON/XOFF protocol. That is, the printer processes information as it is being downloaded and stops when there is no more information. There is no restriction on the number of characters that can be sent down at a time. <STX> and <ETX> are optional characters.

Pin 11/20 reports “Ready” and a <DC1> (XON) is transmitted when the printer finishes reloading at power-up. Pin 11/20 reports “Busy” when the printer’s input buffer fills with 768 bytes of data. If the host ignores pin 11/20 and continues to transmit data, the printer transmits a <DC3> (XOFF) after receiving 15 additional characters. The printer continues to transmit a <DC3> after every 15 characters received if the host continues to transmit data. Data integrity is not guaranteed if this happens.

Pin 11/20 becomes “Ready” when the printer has transferred all the data from the input buffer. If the printer receives a <DC3>, it transmits a <DC1> (XON) and the host may resume transmission. When you switch the printer offline, pin 11/20 becomes “Busy” and it transmits a <DC3>.

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Genicom 3400e user manual XON/XOFF Protocol Software and Hardware Flow Control

3400e specifications

The Genicom 3400e is a robust and versatile printer designed primarily for high-volume environments, where efficiency and reliability are paramount. As part of the Genicom family of printers, the 3400e offers a range of features and technologies that cater to the needs of various industries, including corporate offices, logistics, and educational institutions.

One of the standout features of the Genicom 3400e is its impressive printing speed. Capable of producing up to 1,200 pages per hour, this printer significantly reduces wait times and enhances productivity. This speed is complemented by its advanced printing technology, which ensures high-quality output with sharp text and crisp graphics, making it suitable for printing documents ranging from simple reports to detailed presentations.

The Genicom 3400e employs dot matrix printing technology, recognized for its durability and low operational costs. Unlike laser printers that use toner, dot matrix printers utilize ink ribbons. This not only reduces the cost per page but also offers long-lasting performance for continuous printing tasks. The 3400e’s design incorporates a robust print head that can withstand rigorous use, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications.

In terms of connectivity, the Genicom 3400e supports various interfaces, including parallel, serial, and USB, ensuring compatibility with numerous devices and systems. This flexibility allows businesses to integrate the printer into their existing setups without hassle. Moreover, it supports multiple paper sizes and types, enabling users to print invoices, labels, and reports seamlessly.

Another notable characteristic of the Genicom 3400e is its user-friendly interface. The printer is designed with ease of operation in mind, featuring intuitive controls and an LCD display that provides real-time information about the printer status, helping operators manage tasks efficiently.

Additionally, the printer boasts reliable performance with reduced downtime, thanks to its capability for continuous operation. Its sturdy construction and easy-to-replace components make maintenance straightforward, ensuring that businesses can rely on the Genicom 3400e for their printing needs without interruptions.

In summary, the Genicom 3400e is a powerful dot matrix printer that excels in high-volume printing scenarios, combining speed, reliability, and affordability. Its advanced features and user-centric design make it an excellent choice for organizations seeking efficient printing solutions that stand the test of time.