Standard Syntax Guidelines
When creating MPCLII packets:
NBegin each packet with a start of header ({).
NEnd each packet with an end of header (}).
NDefine no more than 50 fields in a format. Each p indicates
one field. However, options are not counted as fields.
NThe field number (0 to 999) must be unique. Monarch
recommends starting at 1, instead of 0.
NDo not use a field number more than once per format.
NDefine all fields in the order you want to image/print them.
NSeparate all parameters with a Parameter Separator (,).
NEnd each field with a Field Separator ( p ).
NEnter all information in CAPITAL letters, except words or
phrases within quotation marks.
NInclude all parameters for a field unless documented as
optional.
NDefine non-printable text fields before the field to which they
apply.
NDefine options immediately after the field to which they apply.
NMultiple options can be used with most fields. Options can be
used in any combination except as noted with each definition.
NKeep in mind that proportionally spaced fonts need wider fields
than monospaced fonts. For variable field data, use a letter
"W" to determine the maximum field size.
NDo not place a new line (return) or any other non-printing
character in a character string. However, a carriage return or
line break after each p makes your formats easier to read.
T,1,20,V,30,30,1,1,1,1,B,C,0,0,0 p
T,2,10,V,50,30,1,1,1,1,B,C,0,0,0 p
NSpaces are ignored, except within character strings.
Getting Started 1-5