Operation2–2
Basic Operation Features On Line
The
printer functions either “on line” or “of
f line.” When on line, the printer is capable of receiving
data
and control commands from the host computer
. The message display on the printer control panel
indicates that the printer is on line and shows the current print mode.
Off Line
When
the printer is of
f line, communication between the printer and the host computer is
temporarily
stopped
and the message OFFLINE READY appears on the display
. Set the printer of
f line to perform
the
following tasks:
•
Display/Change Configuration V
alues •Load Paper and Ribbon
•Run the Self–Test •Advance to Top of Form
•Set Top–of–Form •
Change Print Modes
•Enter Hex Dump Mode •Adjust Paper Tractors
•Set Line Spacing •Advance Paper
Command Sets (Protocol Modes)
The
P3000 Series Multinational printers respond to two dif
ferent command
sets (protocols): P–Series
and Serial Matrix.
The
protocol is selected from the control panel and must correspond with the programming standard
used
by the host computer to communicate with the printer
. Y
ou can select either protocol as required
by
the application. The P–Series emulation mode generates
characters and graphics using
Printronix
standard
P–Series control code protocol. The Serial Matrix emulation mode generates characters and
graphics
using Serial Matrix control
code protocol similar to the IBM Graphics Printer
. Refer to the
Programming chapter for detailed information on P–Series and Serial Matrix protocols and control
code definitions.
Character Set Options
Four basic character set choices are selectable from the control panel: IBM PC, Multinational,
ECMA–94
Latin 1, and DEC Multinational. W
ithin each
character set, specify the desired specific for
-
eign
language set.
You
can also define and download a custom character substitution table to replace any symbol residing
in the character library (see page 6–31). This
downloading feature is discussed in more detail in the
Programming chapter.