QMS 860, User Manual, Page: 375 / 398

Parallel
A data transmission technique that sends each bit simultaneously over
separate lines. It is normally used to send a byte (8 bits) at a time between
computers and printers.
Parallel Interface
A connection between the computer and the printer in
which character information is transferred simultaneously over a path
through multiple lines. Parallel configuration data transfer is generally faster
than serial configuration data transfer. See also serial interface.
Parity, Parity Check
The addition of overhead bits to ensure that the total
number of 1s in a grouping of bits is either always even (for even parity) or
always odd (for odd parity). This permits detection of single errors. It may
be applied to characters, transmission blocks, or any convenient bit grouping.
PCL
See HP PCL.
Permanent Soft Fonts
Permanent soft fonts are soft fonts downloaded
into the printer’s memory that remain resident there, even if the printer is
reset, until the printer is powered off or the fonts are deleted by software
printer commands. (See download.)
Persistent
Remaining in the printer’s memory after you turn it off. Persistent
parameters appear each time you turn on the printer.
Pitch
The number of characters printer per horizontal inch. For example, 12
pitch means that 12 characters will be printed per horizontal inch. Pitch is
applied only to fonts with fixed spacing. See also fixed spacing.
Point Size
The height of a character or symbol in a font. There are 72 points
per inch. This text is printed using a 10 point font.
Portrait Orientation
See orientation.
PostScript
A page description language that describes text, graphics, and
page images to the printer.
G l o s s a r y G - 9