Centronics Parallel Interface Signals

Centronics Parallel Interface Signals

Table 8. Centronics Parallel Interface Signals

Signals

Purpose

 

 

 

 

Data Lines 1 through 8

Provide eight standard or inverted levels from

 

the host that specify character data, plot data,

 

or a control code. Data Line 8 allows access to

 

the extended ASCII character set. You may

 

enable or disable this line via the Data Bit 8

 

parameter on the Centronics Parallel submenu

 

(see page 80).

 

 

Data Strobe

Carries a low true, 100 ns minimum pulse from

 

the host that clocks data into the printer.

 

 

Acknowledge

A low true pulse from the printer indicating the

 

character or function code has been received

 

and the printer is ready for the next data

 

transfer.

 

 

Online

A high true level from the printer to indicate the

 

printer is ready for data transfer and the PAUSE

 

key on the control panel has been activated.

 

When the printer is in online mode, it may

 

accept data from the host.

 

 

Paper Empty (PE)

A high true level from the printer to indicate the

 

printer is in a paper empty or paper jam fault.

 

 

Busy

A high true level from the printer to indicate the

 

printer cannot receive data.

 

 

Prime

A high true level from the host to indicate the

 

printer should perform a warm start (printer is

 

reset to the power-up configuration values).

 

 

Paper Instruction (PI)

Carries a VFU signal from the host with the

 

same timing and polarity as the data line.

 

 

Fault

A low true level from the printer indicates a

 

printer fault.

 

 

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Printronix T4204 manual Centronics Parallel Interface Signals