Axiohm A714, Owner'S Manual

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A714 Owner’s Guide Chapter 5: Communication
April 1998 21
Chapter 5: Communication Chapter 5: Communication
In order for a receipt to be printed, a program must be in place that translates the data
from the host computer into a language the printer can understand. This program must
tell the printer exactly how to print each character. This chapter describes how to create
such a program or modify an existing one.
Interface Interface
In order for the printer to communicate with the host computer, a communication link
must be set up. The A714 supports the industry standard RS-232C communication
interface. This interface has a protocol associated with it that the host computer must
understand and adhere to.
Only when the interface parameters are matched and the proper protocol is used will the
host computer and the printer be able to communicate. For a description of the protocol
associated with the RS-232C interface see “RS-232C Interface Protocols” on page 22.
Sending Commands Sending Commands
Once the communication link is established, commands can be sent to the printer. This
section describes how to send commands to the printer using DOS and BASIC. This
section does not take into account the necessary protocol; it is meant as a general
introduction to how the printer functions.
Using DOS to Send Commands Using DOS to Send Commands
One way of getting commands to the printer is to send them directly from DOS. For
example, the command:
COPY CON: COM1:
means that the hexadecimal code corresponding to any key that is pressed is sent to the
RS-232C communication port COM1 when the COPY mode is exited. If the printer is
connected to COM1 and the communications modes match, then the data will go to the
printer.
Exit the COPY mode by typing:
CTRL Z
[Enter]
Once the computer knows to direct data from any print command to the proper port,
commands can be sent from any software program.