(if you’re not sure which type of interface your computer has, check the appendix for your computer).

So when do you use graphics and when do you use download characters? Practically anything you can do with graphics you can do with download characters, and vice versa. A clever pro- grammer could actually plot a mathematical curve using down- load characters or use strings of graphics data as user-defined characters. But why do it the hard way? There are several in- stances when dot graphics is clearly the best way to approach the problem:

•If the graphic image to be printed is wider than 11 dots or higher than 8 dots

•If an image is to be printed just one time, as opposed to a frequently used “text” character

•If you want higher resolution (SG-lo/15 can print as many as 240 dots per inch in dot graphics mode; text mode, which includes download characters, prints 60 dots per inch)

USING THE DOT GRAPHICS COMMANDS

The command to print normal density (60 dots per inch hor- izontal; 72 dots per inch vertical) dot graphics uses this format:

<ESC> "K" nl n2 ml m2 .....

-..

-.

Just like many

of the other

codes you have learned,

the com-

 

-

mand starts with an escape sequence (< ESC > “K” in this case).

 

 

But unlike SG-10/15’s other codes there can be any number of

 

 

graphics

data

bytes following

the command. That’s where nl and

-

-

n2 come in; they are used to tell SG-IO/15 how many bytes of

 

-

graphics

data

to

expect.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

n Specifying the number of columns of dots

 

 

 

.-

 

 

 

 

To figure the values of nl and n2, you’ll need to ligure out

 

 

how wide your graphic image will be (remember that there are

 

 

60 columns of dots per inch in normal density). Then comes the

 

-

fun part: converting one number (the number of columns of dots)

 

 

 

into two! Why is it necessary to use two numbers to tell SG-lo/15

 

-

the number of graphics codes to expect? Because the largest

 

 

 

number we can send in one byte (that’s what the

BASIC

CHR$()

 

-

function

sends: one byte) is 255. And with normal

density

graphics

 

104

Page 111 Page 113
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Image 112
Star Micronics SG-15, SG-10 user manual Using the DOT Graphics Commands
Page 111 Page 113

SG-10, SG-15 specifications

Star Micronics is a renowned name in the printing industry, widely respected for producing high-quality printing solutions. Among its impressive lineup, the SG-15 and SG-10 series stand out as versatile and powerful solutions, designed to cater to various business needs, especially in the realm of point-of-sale (POS) printing.

The SG-15 and SG-10 models are thermal printers that offer rapid printing speeds, which are critical in high-demand environments such as retail and hospitality. One of the main features of these printers is their compact design, making them easy to fit into various workspace setups without sacrificing performance. Users benefit from lightweight models that do not take up excessive counter space.

Another significant characteristic of these printers is their exceptional print quality. With a resolution of 203 dpi (dots per inch), the SG-15 and SG-10 produce crisp, clear receipts and labels, enhancing customer communication and satisfaction. This high-quality output is complemented by the printers' ability to handle a variety of media, including thermal paper and labels, making them versatile tools for different printing tasks.

Connectivity options are abundant with these models, as they support multiple interfaces, including USB, Ethernet, and Bluetooth. This flexibility allows businesses to integrate the printers seamlessly into existing systems, thus optimizing workflow efficiency. The versatility in connectivity also facilitates mobile printing solutions, enabling businesses to engage customers in real-time.

Durability is another hallmark of the SG-15 and SG-10 series. Built to withstand the rigors of busy environments, these printers feature robust construction that reduces the likelihood of breakdowns or maintenance issues. The long-term reliability not only ensures consistent performance but also contributes to reduced operational costs.

Moreover, the user-friendly design of the SG-15 and SG-10 makes them accessible for staff at all levels. Easy-to-navigate controls and intuitive setup processes minimize training time and enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, these printers come equipped with energy-efficient components, promoting sustainability in business practices.

In summary, the Star Micronics SG-15 and SG-10 thermal printers embody a blend of speed, quality, connectivity, durability, and ease of use. They are tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses, making them an excellent choice for any organization looking to improve its printing solutions. With features that prioritize performance and user experience, these printers are a valuable addition to any POS system.
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