2. Overview
The 9400 Series Thermal Printer can receive print data online
from a host computer. During online communication, the host
computer treats the printer as an RS-232 type printer. For the
printer to communicate online, you will need an RS-232 cable.
For mainframe communication, you may need a protocol
converter.
To transmit data from the host computer requires
communication controls for the download oper ation. Refer to
the next section, "Communicati on Requirements."
Three types of data can be transmitted:
Format data The user-designed layout for online
formats. These formats are used by online
batches for printing.
NOTE: These online formats can al so be
used offline. However, formats
created offline cannot be used
online.
Batch data Contains the format number and actual
data to be printed on the s upply. Batch
data is downloaded to the pr inter and
combined with a format stored in the printer.
Graphic data Contains the actual pixel data which forms
a graphic image.
NOTE: Format, batch, and graphic data are stored when you
turn the power off.
Format and graphic data may be sent at any time.
Since batch data is combined w ith a format for printing, th e
format and graphic data for a ba tch must reside in the printer
before sending the batch.
Overview
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