XEROX DOCUPRINT 180 LPS PDL REFERENCE 1-1
1. 1Overview
This chapter provides an overview of PDL related information you will
need in order to effectively utilize the PDL capabilities.

PDL features and functions

Print Description Language (PDL) is used to describe printing jobs to
a Xerox laser printing system (LPS). PDL accomplishes this by:
•Describing the input (type, format, characteristics)
•Describing the processing functions (logical processing)
•Describing the output (type, format, font selection, ac counting
options).
Diverse application needs can be met because PDL enables you to:
•Change and mix font types on a page-to-page, line-to-line, or
character-to-character basis. Output can be customized for
specific needs, for example, highlighting important headings by
changing font styles and sizes.
•Change page orientation and positioning on a page-to-page
basis. Characters may be printed horizontally or vertically with
equal ease. The printing system switches instantly between
horizontal and vertical page formats, combining the two styles
within a single report.
•Print a number of previously separate logical pages on the
same physical page of a document.
•Modify documents on a copy-to-copy basis by printing selected
portions of data on a page-to-page basis. You can replace
certain portions of text with other data, delete paragraphs fro m
some copies, or label other copies "confidential.
•Merge variable print data with forms stored on the system disk.
This eliminates the need for forms overlays and m ost preprinted
forms, as well as assuring perfect registration.
•Add data, position it on the page, and print it on a variety of
forms in one job. Multiple forms, stored in digital format, are
changeable on a page-to-page or copy-to-copy basis.
•Print two different forms back-to-back (duplex) on one sheet of
paper, therefore reducing paper costs. Additionally, this option
offers potential savings in inventory, filing, storage, and mailing
costs for computer-generated material.
•Feed paper either short-edge first or long-edge first to
accommodate a wide variety of paper sizes.
Before discussing PDL commands in detail, a general understanding
of LPS components and functions is helpful. The following sections
provide such a general overview.