Printronix S828, Programmer'S Manual

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Programmer Manual PTX ‐ S828
Chapter 4 IPDS Commands 91 260071 ‐ 001A
Chapter 4. Intelligent Printer Commands
This chapter explains the concepts of the Intelligent Printer Data Stream (IPDS). IPDS is an orderable
feature for your printer. The intent of this chapter is to provide a basic overview of how IPDS works. The
Intelligent Printer Data Stream Reference provides detailed information about IPDS programming in general
while Chapter 5, “IPDS Programming Information,” provides a detailed description of the IPDS commands
that the Printronix Model S828 printer uses. If the programming information in the Intelligent Printer Data
Stream Reference is different from the programming information in this manual, use this manual to program
the Printronix Model S828 printer.
Overview
The Intelligent Printer Data Stream (IPDS) is a structured-field data stream for managing and controlling
printer processes. IPDS uses all points addressability that allows users to position text, images, graphic
pictures, bar codes, and overlays at any defined point on a printed page. Later pages in this chapter
explain each of these data types and their uses.
IPDS offers the flexibility of creating data and commands independent of the type of attachment protocol
used by the printer or its system. Using the same data stream, printers can attach to control units or any
type of network link that does not restrict the transmission of data to the printer.
IPDS commands within the data stream enable the host processor to control and manage the downloading
of symbol sets and stored objects, such as overlays and page segments. The printer can later use these
stored objects to construct a printed page.
The IPDS command structure also provides the means for returning error information to the host, for
returning query information, and for performing error recovery actions.
Physical Medium
The S828 IPDS defines the physical medium as an area with boundaries of width and depth that define
the limits of this page. The maximum print position (MPP) defines the width of the current page in
characters.
MPP x 1/CPI = width in inches (CPI is the number of characters per inch).
The maximum page length (MPL) defines the depth of the current page in lines.
MPL x 1/LPI = depth in inches (LPI is the number of lines per inch).
The top margin on this page is the top-of-form position, as selected by pressing SET TOP OF FORM on
the operator panel. Figure 2 shows the physical medium layout.