Printronix L7032 Programmer's Reference Manual

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IGP®/VGL Emulation for L7032 Printers Code V

Graphics Language

Programmer’s Reference Manual

IGP®/VGL Emulation for L7032 Printers Code V

™

Graphics Language

Programmer

’

s Reference Manual

Printronix, Inc. makes no representations or warranties of any kind regarding this material, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Printronix, Inc. shall not be held responsible for errors contained herein or any omissions from this material or for any damages, whether direct, indirect, incidental or consequential, in connection with the furnishing, distribution, performance or use of this material. The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.

This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. No part of this document may be reproduced, copied, translated or incorporated in any other material in any form or by any means, whether manual, graphic, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Printronix, Inc.

2007, PRINTRONIX, INC.

Trademark Acknowledgements

IBM and IBM PC are registered trademarks of the International Business Machines Corp.

HP and PCL are registered trademarks of Hewlett-Packard Company. IGP, LinePrinter Plus, and Printronix are registered trademarks and LaserLine

and PSA are trademarks of Printronix, Inc. QMS is a registered trademark and Code V is a trademark of Quality Micro

Systems, Inc. CSA is a registered certification mark of the Canadian Standards Association. TUV is a registered certification mark of TUV Rheinland of North America, Inc. UL is a registered certification mark of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. This product uses Intellifont Scalable typefaces and Intellifont technology.

Intellifont is a registered trademark of Agfa Division, Miles Incorporated (Agfa).

CG Triumvirate are trademarks of Agfa Division, Miles Incorporated (Agfa). CG Times, based on Times New Roman under license from The Monotype Corporation Plc is a product of Agfa.

Table of Contents

1 Overview ............................................................... 13

About This Manual.................................................................................. 13

Warnings And Special Information ...................................................13

Features..................................................................................................14

On-Line Form And Label Generation ...............................................14

Variable Bar Codes ..........................................................................14

Expanded and Compressed Print ....................................................14

Rotated Alphanumerics ....................................................................14

Logos ............................................................................................... 15

Reversed and Shaded Print .............................................................15

Automatic Increment/Decrement Capability .....................................15

Multinational and International Character Sets ................................15

New Or Different Features For The VGL ................................................15

Modes Of Operation ...............................................................................16

Normal Mode....................................................................................16

Graphics Mode .................................................................................16

Extended Graphics Mode.................................................................16

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode ...................................... 17

Configuring VGL With The Control Panel ............................................... 17

2 Commands............................................................ 19

Modes Of Operation ...............................................................................19

VGL Command Standards...................................................................... 20

Special Function Control Code (SFCC) ........................................... 21

Command Sequence .......................................................................21

Command Parameters .....................................................................21

Brackets ........................................................................................... 21

Spaces ............................................................................................. 22

Comma.............................................................................................22

Terminator........................................................................................22

Character Height, Width, And Intercharacter Spacing .....................23

Normal Mode ..........................................................................................23

Graphics Mode .......................................................................................24

Data Positioning ...............................................................................24

Table of Contents

Command Codes.................................................................................... 26

Graphics Mode Enable Commands ................................................. 26

Standard Graphics Commands........................................................27

Extended Graphics Commands ....................................................... 29

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Commands .............................31

Alphanumerics ................................................................................. 32

Boxes ............................................................................................... 39

Carriage Return................................................................................41

Character Height .............................................................................. 42

Character Width ...............................................................................44

Character Type ................................................................................46

Compressed Print ............................................................................47

Dark Print ......................................................................................... 49

Descending Characters....................................................................51

Direct Printer Commands .................................................................53

Dot Slew...........................................................................................54

Duplication, Horizontal ..................................................................... 54

Duplication, Horizontal (Version II)...................................................56

Duplication, Vertical ......................................................................... 57

Duplication, Vertical (Version II).......................................................63

Dynamic Form Commands ..............................................................65

Electronic Vertical Format Unit (EVFU)............................................73

Emphasized Print ............................................................................. 76

Emulation Switch..............................................................................77

Font Load ......................................................................................... 77

Font, Selecting Default (Version II) ..................................................78

Fonts, Rotatable...............................................................................82

Fonts, Compressed Print Density .................................................... 85

Form Feed........................................................................................88

Form Length.....................................................................................89

Forms Construction.......................................................................... 90

Forms, Creating Dynamic (Version II)..............................................93

Forms, Deleting Dynamic (Version II) .............................................. 94

Forms, Executing Dynamic (Version II)............................................94

Forms, Listing Dynamic (Version II) ................................................. 95

Forms, Predefined (Version II) ......................................................... 95

Forms, Resetting Dynamic (Version II) ............................................ 99

Free Format (Enable/Disable) .......................................................... 99

Free Format Enable, Non-Graphics ............................................... 101

Free Format Disable, Non-Graphics ..............................................102

Graphics Mode Enable...................................................................103

Graphics Mode Disable ..................................................................104

Table of Contents

Hex Dump ...................................................................................... 104

Ignore Data ....................................................................................105

Interrupt..........................................................................................106

Justification, Vertical ...................................................................... 108

Line Feed .......................................................................................110

Line Slew........................................................................................111

Line Spacing .................................................................................. 111

Lines, Dashed ................................................................................113

Lines, Solid.....................................................................................116

Logo Generation (Version II)..........................................................118

Logo, PCX......................................................................................120

Logo, TIFF......................................................................................121

Page, Controlling Paper Options (Version II) .................................122

Passing Hex Values .......................................................................124

Pixel Expansion (Version II) ...........................................................125

Plotting Bitmap Images ..................................................................127

Plotting Graphics (Columns) ..........................................................129

Plotting Graphics (Rows)................................................................ 132

Reset..............................................................................................135

Reverse Print .................................................................................136

Scaling ........................................................................................... 138

Shading ..........................................................................................140

Shading Mask ................................................................................142

Special Function Control Code Change .........................................144

Symbols, Creating Standard User Defined .................................... 145

Symbols, Creating Expanded User Defined................................... 148

Symbols, Printing ...........................................................................150

Tab, Horizontal...............................................................................151

Tab, Vertical ................................................................................... 155

Underlined Print ............................................................................. 156

Wait For Online ..............................................................................157

Table of Contents

3 Bar Codes ........................................................... 159

Overview............................................................................................... 159

Examples ....................................................................................... 160

Bar Code Size/Height Requirements ............................................. 160

Bar Code Command Format................................................................. 162

Standard Bar Code Command Format ..........................................163

IBARC, (Version II) Bar Code Command Format ..........................164

Bar Codes............................................................................................. 167

Australian 4-State...........................................................................169

BC412 Barcode..............................................................................174

Codabar .........................................................................................178

Code 39..........................................................................................184

Code 93..........................................................................................191

Code 128........................................................................................195

Data Matrix.....................................................................................204

EAN 8.............................................................................................213

EAN 13...........................................................................................218

German Interleaved 2/5 .................................................................222

Identicon.........................................................................................228

Interleaved 2/5 ............................................................................... 231

Maxicode........................................................................................236

MSI.................................................................................................241

PDF417 .......................................................................................... 247

Planet .............................................................................................251

POSTNET ...................................................................................... 256

Royal Mail ...................................................................................... 260

Telepen .......................................................................................... 262

UCC/EAN-128................................................................................267

UPC-A ............................................................................................ 278

UPC-E ............................................................................................ 283

UPCSHIP ....................................................................................... 291

UPS 11...........................................................................................295

Table of Contents

4 Exercises And Examples .................................... 299

Practice Using VGL ..............................................................................299

Practice Graphic Exercise - Normal Resolution .............................300

Practice Graphic Exercise - High Resolution .................................304

Form Example ......................................................................................309

Page Layout Considerations ..........................................................309

Planning The Form Layout .............................................................309

Label Example ...................................................................................... 326

Solving Program Errors ........................................................................ 334

5 Multinational And International Character

Sets..................................................................... 335

Multinational Character Sets.................................................................335

Character Addresses .....................................................................336

Making Character Substitutions ..................................................... 336

Accessing Characters And Character Sets ..........................................339

Data Bit 8 ....................................................................................... 339

Power-Up Character Set Selection ................................................339

Building A Character Translation Table..........................................339

Resetting the Character Set...........................................................340

User-Defined Set Command ..........................................................341

Character Set Selection Command................................................343

Selecting An ISO Character Set.....................................................346

Multinational Character Set Charts ................................................347

International Character Sets................................................................. 351

6 Error Codes......................................................... 353

The Purpose Of Error Codes ................................................................353

Error Codes ..........................................................................................353

A Standard ASCII Character Set............................ 359

B Shading Masks ................................................... 361

Selecting Masks....................................................................................361

C Grid Samples ...................................................... 373

D Page Boundaries ................................................ 377

Paper Selection And Maximum Values ................................................377

Setting Top/Bottom Margins...........................................................378

Setting Left Margins .......................................................................379

Table of Contents

E PTX_SETUP Option............................................ 381

Overview............................................................................................... 381

The PTX_SETUP Commands ..............................................................381

Commands.....................................................................................382

F VGL Command Support on L7032 Printers ........389

G Glossary .............................................................. 391

H Contact Information............................................. 401

Printronix Customer Support Center.....................................................401

Printronix Supplies Department ............................................................ 402

Corporate Offices.................................................................................. 402

1 Overview

About This Manual

This manual is divided into chapters that contain all the information required to use the IGP

/VGL® Emulation. Use this manual in conjunction with your

printer

User’s Manual

for complete printer-VGL compatibility.

Warnings And Special Information

Information requiring special attention is highlighted under special headings. Always read and comply with this information. The heading reveals the nature of the information:

WARNING

Conditions that could cause you physical harm as well as damage the equipment.

CAUTION

Conditions that indicate the possiblity of damage to a program, device, system, or data.

IMPORTANT

Information vital to proper operation of the printer. NOTE: Provides helpful tips about printer operation and maintenance.

Chapter 1 Features

Features

The Code V Graphics Language (VGL) is the QMS compatible Intelligent Graphics Printing software designed for Printronix thermal, line matrix and L7032 printers. VGL emulates the QMS Code V Version II programming language to produce on-line forms, bar codes, and alphanumeric text generation in both normal and high resolution. The VGL graphics processing features are detailed below.

On-Line Form And Label Generation

On-Line Form and Label Generation makes it easy to create forms or labels with the “preprinted” look for each application. VGL programs control all graphics functions, dramatically reducing host computer programming and processing time. Graphics capabilities include boxes, vertical, horizontal, solid and dashed lines in normal or high resolution with a variety of thickness, logos, and special alphanumeric print features. Forms and graphic designs can be duplicated horizontally and vertically.

Variable Bar Codes

Variable Bar Codes allow the bar code for your application to print easily with standard or user-defined ratios in vertical or horizontal orientations, in normal or high resolution. Available bar codes are: Australian 4-State; Codabar; Code 39; Code 128 with Subsets A, B, and C; Code 93; Data Matrix; EAN 8; EAN 13; German Interleaved 2 of 5; Identicon; Interleaved 2 of 5; Maxicode; MSI; Planet; POSTNET; Royal Mail; Telepen; UCC/EAN-128; UPC-A; UPC-E; UPS 11 and UPC Shipping. POSTNET is available only in horizontal direction. Impact printers include a dark print mode for darker, high-contrast bar codes. The IBARC bar code command prints bar codes in four orientations: horizontal, rotated 90, rotated 180 or rotated 270 degrees. See Table 21 on page 167 for a complete list of bar codes.

Expanded and Compressed Print

Expanded and Compressed Print draws attention where needed. Alphanumeric height and width are controlled independently for a tremendous range of character sizes up to 9.9 inches wide and tall. Six compressed print sizes are available: 12, 13.33, 15, 17.65, 20, and 24 cpi (characters per inch), permitting up to 204 columns in an 8.5-inch printed area (24 cpi). In high resolution mode, characters can be sized and positioned to hundredth of an inch specification.

Rotated Alphanumerics

Rotated Alphanumerics permit new concepts in form design. Normal, expanded, and compressed character strings can be rotated 90 degrees clockwise, counterclockwise, or printed upside down.

Logos

Logos are easily created using alphanumeric commands and a variety of print and shading features, providing a “customized” appearance for forms, reports, and labels. The registered trademark, copyright, TUV

, GS-Mark,

, and CSA® symbols are provided as standard designs on the VGL, and

you can also define custom symbols.

Reversed and Shaded Print

Reverse and Shaded Print permit highlighting and contrasting by printing white characters on a dark background or white characters on a gray, shaded background. Various levels or patterns of gray shading and reverse printing can be combined with the many other print features to create distinctive designs.

Automatic Increment/Decrement Capability

Automatic Increment/Decrement Capability allows batch form processing. Individual numeric and bar code data fields can be identified and automatically incremented or decremented by any amount, beginning from any specified number.

Multinational and International Character Sets

Multinational and International Character Sets provide you with access to predefined international character sets, each 96 characters in length. The Multinational Character Set also allows you to create your own character sets using characters defined and stored in memory.

New Or Different Features For The VGL

VGL introduces the QMS-compatible Intelligent Graphics Printing software to the Printronix thermal printer environment. Certain variations due to the line matrix versus thermal printing technology change the way the VGL operates in several ways.

• The “dots” parameter in a command is based on a 60 dots-per-inch (dpi) horizontal by 72 dpi vertical grid. In normal resolution mode, this grid is converted to the equivalent number of dots on a high-density, thermal print engine. For example, 1 horizontal dot on a line matrix printer equals 5 dots on a 300 X 300 dpi thermal printer. In high resolution mode, however, size and position parameters are specified in inches.

• Thermal and laser printers cannot produce half-dots. Therefore, for samecpi fonts on a thermal or laser printer, full dot fonts in draft print and halfdot fonts in correspondence print would produce the same number of dots.

Chapter 1 Modes Of Operation

• Dark print, used to produce darker looking graphic elements (e.g., bar codes, shading masks, reverse print, etc.) is a function of line matrix printers only. The darker looking print is produced by overstriking. Thermal and laser printers ignore dark print commands.

Modes Of Operation

Normal Mode

VGL has two basic modes of operation: Normal and Graphics. In Normal Mode, all characters and commands are passed directly through VGL to the Line Printer Plus

Emulation without processing, except to check for the VGL

Special Function Control Code (SFCC) and Graphics Mode command. All the standard Line Printer Plus Emulation features (such as EVFU,

elongated characters, compressed print, plot mode, etc.) are still available when VGL is in Normal Mode. However, when VGL receives a Graphics Mode command, the VGL changes to the Graphics Mode and assumes control of the printer.

Graphics Mode

In Graphics Mode, all VGL functions are available. The standard graphics commands provide features such as underline print, horizontal and vertical duplication, dynamic forms, graphics plotting, and vertical formatting. A complete listing of all standard graphics commands is provided in the “Commands” chapter.

Extended Graphics Mode

In addition to the standard graphics commands, the VGL Graphics Mode has an extended graphics command set, providing more specific graphic features for forms and labels. Alphanumeric commands, boxes, lines, logos, shading, special fonts, and all bar codes are part of the extended graphics command set. Again, complete extended graphics command information is provided in the “Commands”

chapter

VGL also supports the QMS Version II commands (ILOGO, IPEXP, IISO, IBARC, IREPH, IREPV, IFONT,S, IHEX, IPLOT, IFORM,C, IFORM,D, IFORM,E, IFORM,L, and IFORM,R) as well as the original commands performing the same or similar functions to those in Version II. For example, the Horizontal Duplication command (S) is still available, while an enhanced Horizontal Duplication command (IREPH,) is now available with Version II.

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode

Within Graphics Mode, there is an additional high resolution mode called Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode. In this mode, you can access the extended graphics commands as well as new commands designed to achieve enhanced resolution for thermal

printing

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode allows you to specify graphic elements and characters in expanded size and position parameters. Graphic elements (lines, boxes, and forms) can now be defined in increments of one thousandth of an inch. Characters can now be specified in increments of one hundredth of an inch. As a result of these enhancements, you can print forms and labels that include high resolution text, graphics and bar codes.

The actual positioning and size, however, can be only as “fine” as your printer resolution (dpi). For example, a graphic position change of 0.001, 0.002, or

0.003 would result in one printer dot at 300 dpi (1 - .0033 inches). Also, because the actual height of characters changes in increments of seven printer dots (0.0233 inches at 300 dpi), a size specification of 0.01 inch or

0.02 inch would result in a character of the same size.

Configuring VGL With The Control Panel

Matching certain printer operational settings to those of the host computer is known as printer configuration. The settings, or configuration parameters, such as selecting the host interface, parallel/serial data input and file management, are adjusted according to the printer function switch descriptions in your printer's

User's Manual

. Configure VGL in the same way

you would configure the printer for other features. You can select VGL default parameters directly from the control panel as

explained in your

User's Manual

, or by control codes as explained in the

“Commands” chapter. Your

User's Manual

also contains detailed configuration menus and diagrams, as well as descriptions of each configuration parameter available with your printer.

Chapter 1 Configuring VGL With The Control Panel

2 Commands

Modes Of Operation

VGL has two basic modes of operation: Normal mode and Graphics mode. In Normal mode, the data stream passes unchanged to the printer until the Special Function Control Code (SFCC) and Graphics Mode Enable command are detected, indicating that special Graphics mode functions follow. All of the printer standard features operate in Normal mode (such as the EVFU, plot, hex dump) and the printer responds to command and control codes as described in the printer

User’s Manual.

In Graphics mode, you can generate alphanumeric characters, graphic components and bar codes. Once the Graphics mode is enabled, specific command sequences are used to generate a variety of graphics. The command parameters define height, width, location, and type of graphic (boxes, lines, alphanumeric characters).

Three types of command sets are used in the Graphics mode:

• standard graphics

• extended graphics

• extended graphics/high resolution. Figure 1 illustrates the relationship between the Normal and Graphics modes

of operation as described above. In addition, at the beginning of each command in this chapter, the graphics mode(s) in which that command operates are listed.

Chapter 2 VGL Command Standards

Figure 1. Modes of Operation

VGL Command Standards

Many of the commands described in this chapter include an example to illustrate the application. Commas are used in the example commands to easily identify the various command parameters.

Many of the example commands shown also require the Free Format command. Using the Free Format command in the examples more clearly identifies the data and command parameters.

The commands used to operate VGL have various selectable options and a specific format that you must follow to obtain the desired results. These command standards are described in the following sections. Become familiar with their meaning and use before operating VGL.

VGL

Modes of Operation

Normal Mode Graphics Mode

(Table 1)

Standard Graphics

(Table 2)

Passes data directly through to printer.

Enabled with PY Command (see page 103).

An alphanumeric command from Table 1 must be entered before using an Extended Graphics command.

Extended Graphics

(Table 3)

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode must be enabled (^IPARAM,EXTENDED^G^-) before using a high resolution command.

Extended Graphics/

High Resolution

(Table 3)

Special Function Control Code (SFCC)

The SFCC identifies a command directed to VGL to enable a specific VGL function. Based on the host computer interface or application requirements, you can set the SFCC to any decimal character from 17 through 255 (hex 11 through hex FF).

When VGL is shipped, the caret symbol (hex 5E), “^”, is configured as the SFCC. You can change the SFCC as described in your user's manual, or as described in “Special Function Control Code Change” on page 144.

Throughout the practical examples in this manual, the SFCC is shown as a ^ (caret, hex 5E, dec 94); always use the actual SFCC required by your system configuration wherever the ^ is shown.

In the general command formats, the SFCC is represented by (cc). Always substitute the actual SFCC required by your system configuration in the general command format where (cc) is shown.

Do not

enter parentheses with

your SFCC

NOTE: Refer to your

User's Manual

for a description of SFCC selections. Perform a configuration printout and examine the configuration option listing to determine which SFCC is currently selected.

Command Sequence

Individual commands are made up of various command parameters (such as character height or width parameters). Each command generally begins with the SFCC. You can string many commands together to form a command sequence, or command line. After the Graphics Mode is enabled by the Graphics Mode Enable command, you can input a command sequence. The command sequence includes all commands and data from the initial SFCC of the first command to the sequence terminator.

The VGL buffer holds and can process approximately 64K characters in a single graphics command sequence. However, if a single command sequence exceeds the buffer capacity, you can use the Interrupt command (page 106). The Interrupt command breaks the command sequence and specifies where the sequence begins printing again.

Command Parameters

Most commands have a number of variable parameters for which input is required. Throughout this manual, actual commands required for input are shown exactly as they must be entered, while all the

variable

parameters

associated with that command are shown in

italics.

Brackets

Paired brackets [ ] indicate an optional command parameter. You can choose to use or not use such a command parameter, but

do not

enter the brackets in

the command sequence

Chapter 2 VGL Command Standards

Spaces

Spaces are used in the general command formats to visually separate individual command parameters. You must supply the information for the command parameter, but

do not enter the spaces

in the command sequence; they are shown simply as a visual aid to illustrate where one command parameter ends and another begins.

Comma

VGL accepts commas as parameter diameters. Commas are often helpful in distinguishing the various numeric parameters within the command sequence. Commas are not allowed immediately after the SFCC or before the first data character. Commas within the command sequence are optional unless they are a part of the command format (i.e., IBARC, IFONT,S, etc.). If used, commas occupy character spaces in the buffer and require processing time. In the practical examples throughout this manual, commas are used in the command sequences.

Terminator

Each command line, or command sequence,

must

be followed by a valid terminator. Valid terminators are as follows: carriage return (CR, hex 0D), line feed (LF, hex 0A), form feed (FF, hex 0C), vertical tab (VT, hex 0B), EVFU commands (hex 10-1F), hex 01 and hex 06, and PI line commands. A complete command sequence is the very first character (including the SFCC) to and including the terminator.

Certain terminators have different functional effects based on their use with standard graphics commands or within extended graphics command sequences. For example, CR, FF, and LF function as sequence terminators within an extended graphics command sequence.

If the Free Format command is used, host generated terminators are ignored and only the standard graphics command terminators are recognized. See Table 2 on page 27 for a list of the Standard Graphics Commands and appropriate page references where additional information is provided.

Character Height, Width, And Intercharacter Spacing

Alphanumeric height and width parameters include the intercharacter spacing as shown in Figure 2. The intercharacter spacing is the space between characters. (Scalable fonts, however, change the size of the intercharacter gap used depending on the characters used.) Intercharacter spacing is measured to the right of standard or upside-down characters and to the bottom of sideways characters.

For example, specifying a character width of .5-inch in normal resolution results in a five-dot column intercharacter spacing to the right or bottom of that character based on orientation. Generally, intercharacter spacing is not accounted for to the left, above, or below characters except when printing reverse images or descending characters.

Figure 2. Character Height, Width, and Intercharacter Spacing

Normal Mode

In Normal Mode, data passes directly through VGL to the printer without processing except to check for the SFCC and the Graphics Mode Enable or the Enable Non-Graphics Free Format command. This normal, or

pass-

through

, data assumes the standard 10 cpi print mode, and all other standard printer features function normally according to the configuration and programming of the printer.

NOTE: Printers must be configured at the control panel for Data Processing

10 cpi (DP 10) print mode at 6 lpi for VGL to operate properly. To set a line spacing when VGL is active, use the Line Spacing (@L) command described on page 110.

WIDTH DETERMINED

BY wd PARAMETER

WIDTH DETERMINED

BY wd PARAMETER

HEIGHT

DETERMINED

BY Ht

PARAMETER

HEIGHT

DETERMINED

BY Ht

PARAMETER

INTERCHARACTER SPACING 1 DOT COLUMN PER 0.1" OF WIDTH

INTERCHARACTER SPACING 1 DOT COLUMN PER 0.1" OF HEIGHT

Chapter 2 Graphics Mode

Graphics Mode

Some graphics commands have different functions depending on whether the command is used within an extended or a standard graphics command sequence. For example, the W command identifies a standard graphics command line slew; when used within an extended graphics command sequence, W identifies a Character Width Change command. Therefore, be certain of appropriate command usage to obtain the desired results.

Also, graphic commands have different parameters and different functionality depending on whether the command is used in normal or high resolution graphics mode.

Each command in this chapter is presented in alphabetical order. The tables on the following pages list VGL commands according to the graphics mode in which it operates. Information specific to the Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode, such as expanded parameter definition, is supplied on the command description page for each command available in the mode.

Data Positioning

In Graphics Mode, you must understand certain positioning rules to obtain the desired results. Horizontal and vertical starting positions of a command are determined either by

implied

relative position to the prior graphics command

explicit

position from a positioning command.

Implied Relative Positioning

For any graphics command sequence (a string of one or more extended graphics commands), the initial "relative" print position is the current dot row and column 1 or the Graphics margin, if set.

NOTE: Because previous command sequences may have been used to

define prior printing on the page, the actual physical position of the print mechanism may be on a different row, but it will be always in column 1 or the Graphics margin, if set.

Without an immediately preceding positioning command, the starting position of any command within the sequence is dot row 1 and the first dot column past the right edge of the previous command "print envelope." This implied position may be modified horizontally or vertically by specific positioning commands.

Without explicit

horizontal

positioning commands, the horizontal print position constantly increases within the command sequence. Each command starts at the right edge of the previous command. Without explicit

vertical

positioning commands, the vertical print position for each command within a sequence is always at relative dot row 1 (the current physical position of the print mechanism resulting from printing the last sequence).

Data Positioning

Explicit Positioning Commands

Use the Horizontal Tab command to change the horizontal print position. With the Horizontal Tab command, any horizontal print position on the current print line can be specified as the print position.

NOTE: The control panel form feed key will operate differently depending on

the source of form feed control at the time the key is pressed. Form feed is controlled by the LP+ and VGL emulation at different times.

The vertical print position can be changed using the Justification command or justification parameter within one of the alphanumeric commands. The Justification command or parameter specifies a vertical position down the form from the current print position. Additionally, you can use standard graphics commands for line slew, dot slew, line feed, form feed, or EVFU commands to specify a vertical print position.

These positioning commands and their use are described within this chapter. It is important to remember that the end of a command sequence always resets the "origin" for all subsequent positioning to row 1, column 1 or the left Graphics margin.

Vertical Dot Density

A vertical tenth-inch in normal resolution mode equals 7 dots based on 72 dpi vertical dot density. A true vertical tenth-inch at 72 dpi would be 7.2 dots. Since .2 dots is not printable, seven dots are used and the vertical measurement of a line, box, or similar graphic element is not exact.

A vertical inch in high resolution mode equals 292/300 times the printer vertical dot density. A vertical inch at 300 dpi would be 292 dots. Therefore, when specifying the size of your graphic elements, be aware that the vertical dimensions of your graphic design print slightly smaller than the value specified in your command.

You can enable the "True vert 1/10" option which allows the vertical size/ position parameter to be in true inches. With this option enabled in normal resolution, vertical dimensions are as close to true as possible based on a 72 dpi dot density (e.g., 1.0 inch is exact at 72 dots. While 1.2 inch is close at 86 dots, exact would be 86.4 dots.) In high resolution, with true vert 1/10, vertical dimensions are exact or nearly exact due to the higher dot density.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Command Codes

The tables on the following pages list each VGL command according to the Graphics Mode in which it operates. Following these tables, each command in this chapter is presented in alphabetical order.

Graphics Mode Enable Commands

To enable the Graphics Mode, you must use the Graphics Mode Enable command. Table 1 summarizes the Graphics Mode Enable and Disable commands and the four alphanumeric commands, which are fully described on the referenced pages. After enabling the Graphics Mode, alphanumeric commands, standard graphics commands, or extended graphics commands are available.

Table 1. Graphics Mode Commands

Command Description Page #

IPARAM Graphics Resolution 29

PF Free-Format Enable, Non-Graphics 101

PO Free Format Disable, Non-Graphics 102

F Free Format (graphics) Enable 99

O Free Format (graphics) Disable 99

PY Graphics Mode Enable 103

PN Graphics Mode Disable 104

M Alphanumerics, Standard 32

V Alphanumerics, Rotated Clockwise (Top Down) 32

E Alphanumerics, Rotated Counterclockwise (Bottom Up) 32

E Alphanumerics, Rotated Counterclockwise-Reverse String 32

U Alphanumerics, Inverted 32

U Alphanumerics, Inverted-Reverse String 32

in Character Set Selection (Multinational Character Set) 335

I Interrupt 106

un User Set Selection (Multinational Character Set) 341

IPAGE Page, Controlling Paper Options 122

Standard Graphics Commands

NOTE: Some systems pad the data stream with characters and spaces. If the

VGL file on your system contains padded characters or spaces before the SFCC, this padded data must be ignored before VGL can operate. The Ignore Data command (X), discussed on page 105, is provided for this purpose.

Similarly, sometimes you may need VGL to ignore host-generated paper movement commands (carriage return, line feed, form feed, etc.) in lengthy data streams. The Free Format command (F), discussed on page 99, is designed for this purpose.

Standard Graphics Commands

Standard graphics commands can be used any time VGL is in the Graphics Mode. They set internal control values or are sent directly to the printer for processing. Standard graphics commands are summarized in Table 2 and fully described on the referenced pages.

NOTE: The Graphics Mode (Table 1) must be enabled before issuing a

Standard Graphics command.

Table 2. Standard Graphics Commands

Command Description Page #

- Carriage Return 41

@C Character Type 46

#x Compressed Print 47

! Direct Printer Command, Hex 01 53

" Direct Printer Command, Hex 02 53

# Direct Printer Command, Hex 03 53

$ Direct Printer Command, Hex 04 53

% Direct Printer Command, Hex 05 53

& Direct Printer Command, Hex 06 53

' Direct Printer Command, Hex 07 53

( Direct Printer Command, Hex 08 53

. Direct Printer Command, Hex 0E 53

/ Direct Printer Command, Hex 0F 53

D Dot Slew 54

S Duplication, Horizontal 54

IREPH, Duplication, Horizontal (Version II) 56

R Duplication, Vertical 57

Y Auto-Increment/Decrement Vertical Duplication 59

Chapter 2 Command Codes

IREPV, Duplication, Vertical (Version II) 63

B Dynamic Form 65

[ or { Dynamic Form, Field Length 67

C Dynamic Form, Copy Fields 69

R Dynamic Form, Repeat Form 71

> EVFU, Start Load 73

? EVFU End Load 73

0-9 EVFU Channels 1 through 10 73

: EVFU Channel 11 73

; EVFU Channel 12 73

< EVFU Channel 13 73

= EVFU Channel 14 73

@E Emphasized Print 76

IEMUL, Emulation Switch 77

, Form Feed 88

L Form Length (with PI Line Enabled) 89

H Form Length 89

ILOAD, Font Load 77

IFONT, Font, Selecting Default (Version II) 78

F Free Format (graphics) Enable 99

O Free Format (graphics) Disable 99

@H Hex Dump 104

X Ignore Data 105

* Line Feed 110

K Line Slew 111

W Line Slew 111

@L Line Spacing 111

Q Plotting Graphics (Rows), (Odd Dot Plot) 132

C Plotting Graphics (Rows), (Even Dot Plot) 132

@R Reset 135

Table 2. Standard Graphics Commands (continued)

Command Description Page #

Extended Graphics Commands

Specific graphics functions (lines, boxes, alphanumerics, forms, bar codes, reverse printing, etc.) are available through commands sent as part of an extended

graphics command sequence. Table 3 summarizes the extended

graphics commands, which are fully described on the referenced pages. Extended commands must be used as part of an alphanumeric command

sequence (after VGL is in the Graphics Mode). In some cases, the actual command may have a different meaning and perform a different function when used within an extended graphics command sequence compared to its use as a standard graphics command.

NOTE: An alphanumeric command from Table 1 must be used before issuing

an Extended Graphics Command.

N Special Function Control Code Change 144

T Tab, Horizontal (Set Graphics Margin) 151

+ Tab, Vertical 155

@U Underlined Print 156

Table 2. Standard Graphics Commands (continued)

Command Description Page #

Table 3. Extended Graphics Commands

Command Description Page #

IBARC, Bar Code (Version II) 164

B Bar Code, Horizontal 160

C Bar Code, Vertical 160

LB Boxes 39

H Character Height 42

W Character Width 44

in Character Set Selection 343

KF Dark Print 49

D Descending Characters 51

IREPH, Duplication, Horizontal (Version II) 56

IREPV, Duplication, Vertical (Version II) 63

f Fill (for Standard and Expanded User-Defined Symbols) 148

IFONT,S, Font, Selecting Default (Version II) 78

Font Fonts, Rotatable 82

Chapter 2 Command Codes

S Fonts, Compressed Print Density 85

LF Forms Construction 90

IFORM,C Forms, Creating Dynamic (Version II) 93

IFORM,D Forms, Deleting Dynamic (Version II) 94

IFORM,E Forms, Executing Dynamic (Version II) 94

IFORM,L Forms, Listing Dynamic (Version II) 95

IFORM,R Forms, Resetting Dynamic (Version II) 99

J Justification, Vertical 108

LD Lines, Dashed 113

LS Lines, Solid 116

Q Plotting Graphics (Columns) 129

IHEX, Passing Hex Value to the Printer 124

ILOGO, Logo Generation (Version II) 118

IPCX, Logo, PCX 120

ITIFF, Logo, TIFF 121

IPEXP, Pixel Expansion (Version II) 125

IPLOT, Plotting Bitmap Images 127

R Reverse Print 136

KH Shading 140

KL Shading Mask 142

Z Symbols, Printing 150

zx Symbol, Creating Expanded User-Defined 148

zx Symbol, Creating Standard User-Defined 145

T Tab, Horizontal 151

Table 3. Extended Graphics Commands (continued)

Command Description Page #

Extended Graphics/High Resolution Commands

In Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode, you can access the extended graphics commands as well as new commands designed to achieve enhanced resolution for thermal printing. This mode allows you to specify graphic elements and characters in expanded size and position parameters. Graphic elements (lines, boxes, and forms) can now be defined in increments of one thousandth of an inch. Characters can now be specified in increments of one hundredth of an inch. As a result of these enhancements, you can print forms and labels that include high resolution text, graphics and bar codes.

The actual positioning and size, however, can be only as "fine" as your printer resolution (dpi). For example, a graphic position change of 0.001, 0.002, or

0.003 would result in one printer dot at 300 dpi (1 - .0033 inches). Also, because the actual height of characters change in increments of seven printer dots (0.0233 inches at 300 dpi), a size specification of 0.01 inch or 0.02 inch would result in a character of the same size.

To enable Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode, you must have already enabled Graphics Mode through use of the ^PY command. You cannot enable the Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode, however, from within a graphics pass (an alphanumeric command, ^M, ^E, ^U, or ^V).

Once in Graphics Mode, type the following command to enable Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode:

^IPARAM,EXTENDED^G^-

Once in Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode, type the following command to return to normal resolution Graphics Mode:

^IPARAM,NORMAL^G^-

VGL initially operates in normal resolution mode. To switch between normal and high resolution, send the appropriate command shown above, or use the "Cmd Resolution" option on the front panel menu.

You can switch between normal and high resolution between graphics passes on the same page. VGL maintains the current resolution setting after a ^PN ("Exit Graphics Mode") command has been sent.

Example: ^PY^^IPARAM,EXTENDED^G^^M02002001000 text in high resolution^^IPARAM,NORMAL^G^^M0202100 text in normal resolution^^PN^-

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Alphanumerics

Purpose Produces alphanumeric text (i.e., numbers and alphabet letters)

in standard, rotated or inverted orientations. A reverse string order option is also available in the rotated and inverted orientations.

Mode Graphics Format (cc)

x ht wd jus data

[(cc)G] (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

Represents an Alphanumeric command. Replace x with one of the following alphanumeric orientations

M for Standard Alphanumerics V for Rotated Clockwise E for Rotated Counterclockwise U for Inverted

Normal Resolution: Defines the character height in tenth (.10) inches. Enter a two-digit height value ranging from 01 through 99 to define a character height of 0.1 through 9.9 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits. Height values of 00 and 01 have special meanings for rotatable/high-speed fonts as described in “Fonts, Rotatable” on page 82.

High Resolution: Defines the character height in hundredth (.01) inches. Enter a three-digit height value ranging from 001 through 999 to define a character height of 0.01 inch through 9.99 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits.

The actual height of the printed character increases in increments of seven printer dots. Changing the

field by one printer dot, therefore, may not produce a change in the actual printed character. You must increase the field by at least seven printer dots in order to produce an actual change in character height.

Normal Resolution: Defines the character width in tenth (.10) inches. Enter a two-digit width value ranging from 01 through 99 to define a character width of 0.1 through 9.9 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits. Width values of 00 and 01 have special meanings for rotatable/high-speed fonts as described in “Fonts, Rotatable” on page 82.

Alphanumerics

High Resolution: Defines the character width in hundredth (.01) inches. Enter a three-digit width value ranging from 001 through 999 to define a character width of 0.01 inch through 9.99 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits.

The actual width of the printed character increases in increments of six printer dots (characters per inch). Changing the

field by one printer dot, therefore, may not produce a change in the actual printed character. You must increase the field by at least six printer dots in order to produce an actual change in character width.

NOTE: High Resolution mode does not allow a character height or width

parameter of 0. If 0 is used, a 1 is substituted. Fonts, Rotatable (see page 82) cannot be accessed in High Resolution.

NOTE: In vertical alphanumeric commands, height refers to the physical

height of the character and intercharacter spacing top to bottom on the page (from the left to right edge of the printed character). Width refers to the physical width of the character from left to right on the page (from the bottom to the top of the printed character).

jus

Normal Resolution: Defines vertical justification (position) for character printing in tenth inches and dot rows. Enter a threedigit value ranging from 000 through 999 to define the printing location down from the starting position of the command sequence. The first two digits specify 0.1 through 9.9 inches downward justification; the third digit specifies an additional 0 through 9 dot rows of downward justification. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first two digits and the third digit is automatically interpreted as dot rows.

High Resolution

: Defines vertical justification (position) for character printing in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define the printing location down from the starting position of the command sequence from 0.0 inch through

99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the second and third digits as thousandths.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

If the data character immediately following the

jus

field is not a digit (zero through nine), then you can omit trailing zeros. For example, the command ^M10010001ABC, results in a 1.000 inch justification because the three empty spaces in the

jus

field (before the characters “ABC”) are completed with three implied trailing zero digits. (See “Justification, Vertical” on page 108.)

NOTE: If your data to be printed begin with a number (not a character), then

you must complete the field; otherwise, VGL assumes the number is a digit in the field value.

As in normal resolution mode, the

field of either an alphanumeric command or a height/width command also specifies the height of any succeeding bar code in the graphics pass. The field value is not specified in increments of six or seven printer dots, however. In normal resolution mode, you can select character sizes 10 characters per inch (cpi), 12 cpi, 15 cpi and size 0 by height and width parameters in 0 and 1 digit combinations. You cannot perform this type of character size selection, however, in Extended Graphics/High Resolution Mode.

data

The data characters to print or a specific graphics command (such as one of the bar code commands, a horizontal tab command, etc.).

(cc)G (Optional) Reverses the character data from the

actual input order. This parameter is available only with the Rotated Counterclockwise command (E) or the Inverted Rotated Alphanumeric command (U). Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by G.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

The Graphics Mode (PY) must be enabled before sending an alphanumeric command. Alphanumeric commands must be a part of the command sequence before using specific graphics commands. Alphanumeric commands must be used to initiate any extended graphic command sequence. Other data or graphic commands can be used with alphanumeric commands.

Examples Normal resolution examples for each of the four alphanumeric

orientations follow. Rotated Clockwise alphanumerics print characters with a clockwise vertical rotation; the characters are read top to bottom. Rotated Counterclockwise alphanumerics print characters with a counterclockwise vertical rotation; the characters are read bottom to top. Inverted alphanumerics print characters upside down; the characters are read right to left. Rotated Counterclockwise and Inverted Rotated alphanumerics have an optional reverse string parameter option.

Alphanumerics

NOTE: When the alphanumeric command is used simply to introduce one of

the extended graphics commands (such as Horizontal Tabs, Justification, Dark Print, etc.), the alphanumeric command parameters are optional and can be entered only as needed. However, the alphanumeric command parameters are required for Bar Code commands.

Alphanumerics Examples

The following sample commands in this section illustrate some applications for standard, rotated and inverted alphanumeric features in normal resolution mode. (Note that the Free Format enable and disable commands, ^F and ^O, are used.)

Standard Alphanumerics:

^PY^-^F^^M06,04,000AaBb^M04,06,000AaBb^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^M03,03,000I^M03,03,030G^M03,03,060P ^M03,03,060I^M03,03,030G^M03,03,000P^^O^-^PN^-

Rotated Clockwise Alphanumerics:

^PY^-^F^^V06,04,000AaBb^V04,06,000AaBb^^O^-^PN^-

Chapter 2 Command Codes

^PY^-^F^^V03,03,000I^V03,03,030G^V03,03,060P ^V03,03,060I^V03,03,030G^V03,03,000P^^O^-^PN^-

Rotated Counterclockwise Alphanumerics:

^PY^-^F^^E06,04,000AaBb^E04,06,000AaBb^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^E03,03,000I^E03,03,030G^E03,03,060P ^E03,03,060I^E03,03,030G^E03,03,000P^^O^-^PN^-

alpha.ex4

alpha.ex5

alpha.ex6

Alphanumerics

Inverted Alphanumerics:

^PY^-^F^^U06,04,000AaBb^U04,06,000AaBb^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^U03,03,000I^U03,03,030G^U03,03,060P ^U03,03,060I^U03,03,030G^U03,03,000P^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^U03,03,000IGP^U03,03,060PGI^^O^-^PN^-

alpha.

alpha.ex8

alpha.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Alphanumerics Reverse String:

^PY^-^F^^E08,05,000IGP^E08,05,000IGP^G^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^M020,020,01000^T01.500HIGH RESOLUTION SMALL PRINT ^I01.500^^M006.008.00000^T01.500SIX BY EIGHT ^M010.010.00000^T03.500TEN BY TEN ^M012.010.00000^T05.500TWELVE BY TEN ^^O^-^PN^-

^PY^-^F^^M020.020.00000^T01.200HIGH RESOLUTION REVERSE STRING ^I00.500^^U055.030.00000^T01.000^D upside down^D^^U055.030.00000^T01.000^Dupside down reversed^G^D^^O^-^PN^-

Boxes

Purpose Produces a rectangular box. Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) LB

horz vert h v

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

LB The Box command. Enter LB.

horz

Normal Resolution: Defines the horizontal length of the box in tenth inches and dot columns. Enter a three-digit horizontal length value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a horizontal length of 00.0 through

99.9 inches and a fourth digit ranging from 0 through 9 to specify 0 through 9 additional dot columns of length. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits for tenth inches and automatically interprets the fourth digit as dot columns. For example, entering 0126 specifies a 1.2-inch plus 6-dot column horizontal length; entering 1016 specifies a 10.1-inch plus 6dot column horizontal length.

High Resolution

: Defines the horizontal length of the box in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit horizontal value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a horizontal length of 0.000 inch through 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits. The

horz

field must be at least twice the value of the thickness of the vertical sides (

vert

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical length of the box in tenth inches and dot rows. Enter a three-digit vertical length value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a vertical length of 00.0 through 99.9 inches and a fourth digit ranging from 0 through 9 to specify 0 through 9 additional dot rows of length. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits for tenth inches and automatically interprets the fourth digit as dot rows. For example, entering 0204 specifies a 2.0-inch plus 4-dot row vertical length; entering 0242 specifies a 2.4-inch and 2-dot row vertical length.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

High Resolution

: Defines the vertical length of the box in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit vertical value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a vertical length of

0.001 through 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits. The

vert

field must be at least twice the

value of the thickness of the horizontal sides (

Normal Resolution: Defines the horizontal border thickness in dot columns. Enter a number ranging from 1 through 9 to specify a horizontal border thickness from 1 through 9 dots.

High Resolution: Defines the horizontal border thickness in thousandth inches. Enter a three-digit value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a horizontal border thickness from 0.000 through 0.999 inches.

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical border thickness in dot rows. Enter a number ranging from 1 through 9 to specify a vertical border thickness from 1 through 9 dots.

High Resolution: Defines the vertical border thickness in thousandth inches. Enter a three-digit value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a horizontal border thickness from 0.000 through 0.999 inches.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

Box drawing uses horizontal and vertical length parameters. Boxes are positioned on the page using an alphanumerics command sequence (such as horizontal tabs, the justification parameter, etc.). Consequently, an alphanumeric command must precede a Box command. The horizontal and vertical border thickness can also be specified in varying line thicknesses.

Carriage Return

Examples The following commands illustrate boxes in normal resolution. As

shown in the examples, changing the horizontal and vertical length and border thickness parameter values construct a variety of boxes. (The Graphics Mode Enable command and an alphanumerics command were previously sent.)

^LB0425,0150,5,2^-

^LB0052,0123,3,2^- ^LB0100,0100,9,9^-

Carriage Return

Purpose Terminates a command. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

- The graphics CR mnemonic. Enter -.

Comments

The VGL Graphics Mode carriage return (CR) performs the same function as a standard carriage return (hex 0D) when used to terminate a standard graphics command. When used to terminate a graphics sequence in an extended graphics command when Free Format is enabled, this command functions as a sequence terminator.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Character Height

Purpose Specifies a new alphanumeric height. Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) H

ht data

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

H The Character Height command. Enter H.

Normal Resolution: Defines the new character height in tenth inches. Enter a two-digit height value ranging from 01 through 99 to define a character height of 0.1 through 9.9 inches. The decimal point between the digits is automatically understood by VGL.

High Resolution

: Defines the new character height in hundredth inches. Enter a three-digit height value ranging from 001 through 999 to define a character height of 0.01 inch through 9.99 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits. The actual height of the printed character increases in increments of seven printer dots. Changing the

The printable data for the new height is input following the new height parameter.

data

Identifies the characters to print at the new height.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments The H command specifies a new alphanumerics height

parameter without sending the complete alphanumerics command sequence again. Only the character height is affected by this command; character width, justification, rotation, or any other parameter specifications remain unchanged. The Character Height command is input as part of the data in one of the alphanumeric commands.

Character Height

Examples The following sample commands illustrate character height

changes in normal resolution. (The Graphics Mode Enable command was previously sent to enable Graphics Mode but is not shown in the examples.)

^M12,06,000Aa^H10Bb^H05Cc^-

^V05,05,000I^H10G^H15P^-

^U03,04,000up^H05side^H10down^-

charh

charht.2

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Character Width

Purpose Specifies a new alphanumeric width. Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) W

wd data

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

W The Character Width command. Enter W.

Normal Resolution: Defines the new character width in tenth inches. Enter a two-digit width value ranging from 01 through 99 to define a character width of 0.1 through 9.9 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the digits.

High Resolution

: Defines the new character width in hundredth inches. Enter a three-digit width value ranging from 001 through 999 to define a character width of 0.01 inch to 9.99 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal point between the first and second digits.

The actual width of the printed character increases in increments of six printer dots (characters per inch). Changing the

The printable data for the new width is input following the new width parameter.

data

Identifies the characters to print at the new width.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

The W command specifies a new alphanumerics width parameter without sending the complete alphanumerics command sequence again. Only the character width is affected by this command; character height, justification, rotation, or any other parameter specifications remain unchanged. The W command is input as part of the data in one of the alphanumeric commands.

Character Width

Examples The following sample commands illustrate character width

changes in normal resolution.

^PY^^M10,10,000A^W02B^W30C^W05D^^PN^-

^PY^^V05,05,000I^W10G^W15P^^PN^-

NOTE: The command sequence below also uses the Horizontal Tab (T012,5

and T017,5) command for character spacing.

^PY^^E10,10,000I^T012,5^W02G^T017,5^W25P^^PN^-

^PY^^U05,05,000DOWN^W01SIDE^W10UP^^PN^-

charwd.e

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Character Type

Purpose Selects a character type or character per inch (cpi) density. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format (cc) @ C

type

(cc)*

data

(cc)*

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

@ Specifies one of the @ commands. Enter @ to

begin an @ command function.

C Specifies the Character Type command. Enter C.

type

(cc)* Represents the type parameter. Enter one of the 2-

digit codes shown in Table 4 to select a character type, followed by the SFCC. For example, enter ^@C17^* to select 17.65 cpi. This cpi remains effective until a new @C command is sent.

data

The data to be printed in a selected font.

(cc)* Graphics Mode LF. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by * to end the command sequence.

Comments

The @C command can be used anytime VGL is in the Graphics Mode. Once a new character type is selected, all standard Graphics mode text lines are printed in the selected type until another type is selected or VGL returns to the Normal Mode. If another type is selected, it must be introduced on a separate line from the currently selected character type.

Table 4. Character Type Codes

Character Type Code Character Type Selected

05 Double High (.2”)

0A OCR-A

0B OCR-B

10 Standard 10 cpi

12 12 cpi

13 13.33

15 15 cpi

17 17.65

20 20.0 cpi

24 24.0 cpi

Compressed Print

NOTE: Due to different printing technologies and dot sizes, some printers

may not be capable of printing small characters clearly.

Example The following example illustrates changing character type from

the standard characters to 17.65 cpi characters.

^PY^Standard Characters in the Graphics Mode ^@C17^*Compressed 17.65 cpi characters after the Character Type command^* ^@C10^^PN^-

NOTE: The second character type is sent to return VGL to standard 10 cpi

print.

Compressed Print

Purpose Selects a compressed print font. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format (cc) #

(cc)-

data

(cc)*

(cc) #0 (cc)(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

Specifies the compressed print font to use. The values for

and the corresponding compression

are shown in Table 5.

Table 5. Compressed Print Fonts

Selection Code (

)

Compressed Print Font Characters per Inch (cpi)

0 Terminate compressed print

110 cpi

212 cpi

313.33 cpi

415 cpi

517.65 cpi

6 OCR-A

7 OCR-B

812 cpi

915 cpi

Chapter 2 Command Codes

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator

representing an end to the initial command sequence. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the initial sequence.

data

The data for compressed print. All characters are printed in the specified compressed print font until the compressed print command is terminated (0).

(cc)* Graphics Mode LF used as a sequence terminator

representing an end to the data sequence. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by * to end the data sequence.

(cc)#0 The command to terminate compressed printing.

On a separate line, enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by #0 to terminate use of the compressed print font.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

The Compressed Print command can be used anytime VGL is in the Graphics Mode to select one of the compressed print fonts.

The Compressed Print Off command must be on a separate line from a Compressed Print On command.

Do not place compressed print and alphanumeric commands from the Extended Graphics command set on the same print line.

All pass-through text data input after the Compressed Print On command and before the Compressed Print Off command prints in the selected compressed print font.

Examples #1: 12 cpi Compressed Print Font. The following command

generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in the 12 cpi compressed print font.

^PY^^#2^-BCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^* ^#0^^PN^-

#2: 13.33 cpi Compressed Print Font. The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in the 13.33 cpi compressed print font.

^PY^^#3^-ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^* ^#0^-

^PN^-

Dark Print

#3: 15 cpi Compressed Print Font. The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in the 15 cpi compressed print font.

^PY^^#4^-ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^* ^#0^^PN^-

#4: 17.65 cpi Compressed Print Font. The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in the 17.65 cpi compressed print font.

^PY^^#5^-ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^* ^#0^^PN^-

Dark Print

Purpose Activates the dark printing feature on line matrix printers to

produce darker images.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) KF

data

(cc) KF (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

KF The Dark Print command. Enter KF to turn on the

dark printing feature.

data

Represents the data characters for dark printing.

(cc) KF Following the data, enter the Special Function

Control Code (SFCC) for your VGL configuration and KF to turn off the dark printing feature.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Comments NOTE: Dark printing has no effect on thermal and laser L7032 printers and is

included for compatibility with line matrix printers.

Dark Print command prints all dot positions at half-dot resolution to produce images with a darker intensity. The KF command provides special attention when used with bar codes to provide darker bar codes, yet not change the critical bar-width dimensions. Human readable data, however, will print in non-dark mode. Dark print is discussed further in the “Bar Codes” chapter.

The KF command operates as a toggle. The first KF command enables dark printing, the second KF disables dark printing, the third KF enables dark printing, and so on.

All data following the first KF command will print dark until the second KF command is encountered.

The KF command is a part of the data contained in an alphanumeric command. When the alphanumeric command sequence is terminated, dark printing is also disabled.

Reverse printing and shading or mask shading can be combined with dark printing to produce a variety of different shades.

Example The following sample commands illustrate dark printing.

Combining shading and dark print is also shown.

^PY^^M03,03,000IGP^KFIGP^KHIGP^KH^KF^^PN^-

^PY^^V05,05,000IGP^KFIGP^KHIGP^KF^KH^^PN^-

Descending Characters

Purpose Prints descending lowercase characters one of two ways: 1) by

extending below the print baseline, or 2) by raising the characters slightly to completely contain the descending characters above the print baseline.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) D

data

(cc)D (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

D The Descending Character command. Enter D.

data

The data characters for descending character printing. Only lowercase descending characters are printed extending below the print baseline.

(cc)D Following the data, enter the Special Function

Control Code (SFCC) for your VGL configuration and D to turn off descending character printing.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

Descending characters are the lowercase characters g, j, p, q, and y and are the only characters affected by this command. Normal descending characters extend below the baseline of normal print. Unless specified, VGL begins each alphanumerics command sequence with descending character print turned off, which means the characters are printed completely above the print baseline.

The D command operates as a toggle. The first D command enables descending characters to print below the baseline, the second D command disables this feature, the third D command enables, and so on. All lowercase descending character data following the first D command prints below the print baseline until the next D command is encountered.

The D command is input as part of the data in one of the alphanumeric commands. When the alphanumerics command sequence is terminated, descending character printing is also terminated.

When the D command is turned on, VGL automatically allows space for the descending characters whether or not descending characters are part of the data. The amount of space allowed is two dot rows per tenth inch of character height. This space produces a gap under the standard print baseline of non-descending characters. This space also produces a larger reverse print character image background area.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

NOTE: The default setting for the D command is OFF.

The default setting for the IFONT command, however, is ON. If the D command is used after an IFONT command and before the

command terminator, the D command will always be ON. The IFONT command always overrides a D command.

Example The following sample commands illustrate descending character

printing. In the first example, notice that the alphanumerics command sequence terminator was also used to end descending character printing. In the second example, notice that when using the rotate clockwise (^V) command with descending characters, and dots are positioned in the

first

dot column, a .10-inch tab was

required to prevent out-of-bounds descending characters.

^PY^^M02,02,000IGP or igp^D and IGP or igp^^PN^-

^PY^^V03,03,000^T0010igp^Digp^D^^PN^-

descend.e

Direct Printer Commands

Purpose Sends control characters for special purposes directly to the Line

Printer Plus emulation.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format See Table 6. NOTE: The commands in Table 6 are not supported on L7032 printers.

NOTE: Do not use the ^# direct printer command to send hex 03 to the

printer at the start of a line. This is to avoid confusion with the Compressed Print command described on page 47.

Comments

A detailed understanding of Line Printer Plus function and response to the control characters is recommended. Refer to the

Line Printer Plus Programmer’s Reference Manual

for information

regarding the hex codes for various printer commands. The Graphics Mode must be entered before sending the direct

printer commands. However, do not use these commands within an extended graphics command sequence.

Example The following example command sequence sends hex 05 to the

printer, initiating the printer plot command to plot the data.

^PY^^% data ^-

Table 6. Direct Printer Commands

Direct Command Hex Code Sent to the Printer

^ ! 01

^ ” 02

^ # 03 (see note below)

^ $ 04

^ % 05

^ & 06

^ ’ 07

^ ( 08

^ . 0E

^ / 0F

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Dot Slew

Purpose Changes the vertical print position by specifying a number of dot

rows to advance the paper from the current print position.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format (cc) D

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

D The Dot Slew command. Enter D.

Specifies the number of dot rows to advance (slew) the paper from the current print position. Enter a two-digit number of dot rows ranging from 01 through 99. For example, enter 05 to slew 5 dot rows, 21 to slew 21 dot rows.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

The (cc)D

Dot Slew command dot values are interpreted as 60

dpi P-Series dots.

Duplication, Horizontal

Purpose Activates horizontal duplication. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) S #

spacing

(cc)-

data

(cc)S (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

S The Horizontal Duplication command. Enter S to

turn on the horizontal duplication feature.

# Specifies the number of horizontal duplications to

print. Enter a two-digit number ranging from 00 through 99 to specify the number of copies.

spacing

Represents the amount of spacing, in tenth inches, between each duplication. The spacing amount should include a sufficient space to contain the complete printed result of the duplicated command sequence plus space for a margin between copies. The right edge of the last duplication must not exceed selected page width. Enter a two-digit number ranging from 00 through 99 to specify a 0.0 through 9.9 inch spacing for the copies.

Duplication, Horizontal

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator

representing an end to the data. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by

- to end the command sequence.

data

Represents the data to be repeated. Enter any valid VGL Graphics Mode command. Specific command sequences are input as part of the Horizontal Duplication data. These commands are then repeated as specified in the Horizontal Duplication command.

(cc)S (cc)- Mandatory Horizontal Duplication command

sequence terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by S, another SFCC, and - to end terminate the Horizontal Duplication command sequence.

Comments

The S command operates as a toggle. The first S command enables horizontal duplication, the second S command disables horizontal duplication, the third S command enables duplication, and so on.

All data following the first S command repeats the number of times specified until the second S command is encountered.

Copies are produced across the page as many times as requested or until the page width is reached. Any duplications that would print beyond column 132 are lost and cause an Element Off Page error (Error 48).

Example The following sample command illustrates horizontal duplication.

This extended graphics command sequence consists of a Standard Alphanumeric command using the letters "IGP" printed at a height of 0.2". "IGP" is being duplicated 5 times with a gap of

0.8" between each duplication (0.6" space plus a 0.2" margin between each duplication).

^PY^^S05,08^-^M02,02,000IGP^-^S^^PN^-

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Duplication, Horizontal (Version II)

This command performs the same function as (cc)S described on page 54. The IREPH command can also operate within an Extended Graphics command. You must enable the Free Format command for this command to work properly.

Purpose Defines both the number of times data is horizontally duplicated

(repeated), and the horizontal spacing between each duplication.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected or

Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected

Format (cc) IREPH,

n, spacing

(cc)G

data

(cc)IREPE

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IREPH, The horizontal duplication command. Enter

IREPH,.

, Represents the number of times to duplicate the

data horizontally. Enter a value which allows the characters to print within the horizontal page boundaries. Enter a value ranging from 1 through

99.

spacing

Represents the amount of horizontal spacing between the start of each set of repeated data. Enter up to three numbers.

The first and second digits represent horizontal tenths, and the third digit represents horizontal dots. If less than three digits are entered, zeros are automatically inserted from left to right. Example: 001 012 123

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the IREPH command.

data

One Horizontal Duplication command can be contained within a Horizontal Duplication command. The total number of characters within the command sequence (including all repetitions) must be 256 characters less than the maximum size of the input buffer.

Duplication, Vertical

(cc)IREPE The horizontal duplication end command. Enter the

SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by IREPE to end the horizontal duplication command.

Comments

Multiple IREPH/IREPE duplication loops can be used in a form and can also be nested. Vertical duplication loops (IREPV/ IREPE) can also be used in conjunction with IREPH. Each IREPH must have a corresponding IREPE.

Example The following command repeats "IGP" 3 times horizontally using

the IREPH, command, separating each set of "IGP" with 5 tenths plus 2 dots of horizontal spacing.

^PY^-^F^^IREPH,3,52^G^M02,02,000IGP^-^IREPE ^O^-^PN^-

Duplication, Vertical

Purpose Prints multiple copies of data vertically down the page. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) R

(cc)-

data

(cc)Z(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

R Specifies the Vertical Duplication command. Enter

R to activate vertical repetition.

Specifies the number of times to repeat the data, that is, specifies the number of copies to print. Enter a four digit number ranging from 0000 through 9999 to specify the number of copies.

(cc)- Mandatory Graphics Mode CR terminator. Enter

the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end terminate the initial Vertical Duplication command sequence.

data

Represents the data to be repeated. Enter any valid VGL Graphics Mode command. Specific command sequences are input as part of the Vertical Duplication data. These commands are then repeated as specified in the Vertical Duplication command.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

One Vertical Duplication command can be contained within a Vertical Duplication command. The total number of characters within the command sequence (including all repetitions) must be 256 characters less than the maximum size of the input buffer.

(cc)Z(cc)- Mandatory Vertical Duplication command

sequence terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by Z, another SFCC, and - to end terminate the Vertical Duplication command sequence. If a Vertical Duplication command is nested within a Vertical Duplication command, this single terminator sequence terminates both Vertical Duplication commands.

If Auto Increment/Decrement command parameters are used with this command (page 59), this terminator causes all the numeric fields to increase/ decrease (as specified by the Auto Increment/ Decrement command) at the end of the repeat pass. If the (cc)ZO(cc)- (alpha O) terminator is used, all numeric fields are updated sequentially within the repeat pass. See “Auto Increment/ Decrement Vertical Duplication” on page 59 for more information.

Example The following example illustrates the Vertical Duplication

command. Alphanumeric commands, line elements, and standard graphics commands are repeated 3 times down the page. (The ^*^* causes the two line feeds on which the data is repeated. See the Free Format commands discussed on pages 99 and 102.)

^PY^-^F^^R0003^-^M03,03,000A Line^LS0100,0010^^M^D^S4compressed characters^^M^D^S1Repeated 3 times^*^*^Z^^O^-^PN^-

vertd

Duplication, Vertical

Auto Increment/Decrement Vertical Duplication

Purpose Updates increment and decrement data within a Vertical

Duplication command sequence (page 57).

Format (cc) Y

start#

+/-

amount

(cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

Y Specifies the Auto Increment/Decrement

command. Enter Y to activate automatic update of repeated numeric data fields.

start#

Represents the starting numeric data to automatically update. Enter the starting number of the numeric data field ranging from 1 through 12 digits. This number is the first numeric data printed and subsequently updated according to the +/- and

amount

parameters. Spaces are converted to zeros

when necessary.

+/- Specifies increment or decrement updates to the

numeric data. Enter + to increment the data or enter - to decrement the data.

amount

Represents the numeric amount to update the data field. Enter the update amount ranging from 1 through 12 digits. Spaces are converted to zeros when necessary.

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the auto increment/decrement command.

The terminator used in the Vertical Duplication command determines when each inner auto increment field of a nested repeat sequence is updated (incremented/decremented). If the (cc)Z(cc)- Vertical Duplication command terminator is used, each inner field is updated at the end of the repeat pass. For example, four fields within a repeat pass would all be updated together at the end of each repeat pass. If, however, the (cc)ZO(cc)- Vertical Duplication command terminator is used in the same example, each of the four inner fields is updated sequentially within the overall repeat pass.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example 1 The following example illustrates the Vertical Duplication

command with Auto Increment/Decrement of numeric fields updated at the end of the repeat pass. (The ^* on the fourth line causes a line feed on which the second set of Invoice data is printed. See the Free Format commands discussed on pages 99 and 102.)

^PY^-^F^^R0002^-^M02,02,000Invoice ^J010^LS0106,0004^J000 #^Y5010+5^G^^R0004^-^M01,01,010Part #^Y130+2^G^-^*^Z^^O^-^PN^-

Duplication, Vertical

Example 2 The following example illustrates the same Vertical Duplication

command but uses the different terminator for Auto Increment/ Decrement of numeric fields updated sequentially within the repeat pass. (The ^* on the fourth line causes a line feed on which the second set of Invoice data is printed. Refer to the Free Format commands discussed on pages 99 and 102.)

^PY^-^F^^R0002^-^M02,02,000Invoice ^J010^LS0100,0004^J000 #^Y5010+5^G^^R0004^-^M01,01,010Part #^Y130+2^G^-^*^ZO^^O^-^PN^-

(cc)Y can be used in conjunction with IREPV and IREPH to achieve auto increment/decrement on both vertical duplication and horizontal duplication for the data, including numeric, alphabetical and bar code data. (cc)Y can also work with (cc)R vertical duplication command (page 57), but NOT with (cc)S horizontal duplication command (page 54). If the data is nonalphanumeric (except for space characters) and you are using the (cc)Y command with the (cc)R Vertical Duplication command, an error occurs. If the data exceeds 12 digits in length, an error also occurs.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example The following example illustrates the vertical/horizontal

duplication commands using IREPV/IREPH.

^PY^-^F^^IREPV,2,0050^G ^IREPH,3,200^G ^M0202010^YABCD+1^G^^M0202010^Y0001-2^G^^M0202010^Y000A1+3^G^^M0505010^IBARC,C39,E,^YCAV+1^G^^IREPE^^IREPE^^O^-^PN^-

Duplication, Vertical (Version II)

This command performs an enhanced function of the (cc)R command described on page 57. The IREPV command can also operate within an Extended Graphics command, and vertical spacing between each duplication can be specified. You must enable the Free Format command for this command to work properly.

Purpose Defines both the number of times data is vertically duplicated

(repeated), and the vertical spacing between each duplication.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IREPV,

n, spacing

(cc)G

data

(cc)IREPE

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IREPV, The vertical duplication command. Enter IREPV,.

, Represents the number of times to duplicate the

data vertically. Enter a value ranging from 1 through 9999.

spacing

Represents the amount of vertical spacing to separate each set of repeated data. Enter up to four numbers.

The first, second and third digits represent vertical tenths, and the fourth digit represents vertical dots. If less than four digits are entered, zeros are automatically inserted from left to right. Example: 0001 0012 0123 1234

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the IREPV command.

data

Chapter 2 Command Codes

(cc)IREPE The vertical duplication end command. Enter the

SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by IREPE to end the vertical duplication command.

Comments

Multiple IREPV/IREPH duplication loops can be used in a form and can also be nested. Horizontal duplication loops (IREPH/ IREPE) can also be used in conjunction with IREPV. Each IREPV must have a corresponding IREPE.

Example The following command repeats "IGP" 3 times vertically using the

IREPV, command, separating each line with 3 tenths plus 4 dots of vertical spacing.

^PY^-^F^^IREPV,3,4^G^M02,02,000IGP^-^IREPE ^O^-^PN^-

Dynamic Form Commands

Purpose Permits an entire form or label to be sent to VGL with variable

data entered into specific locations on each form.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphic Command selected Format (cc) B (cc)-

data

(cc)

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

B Specifies the Dynamic Form command. Enter B to

begin dynamic forms.

(cc)- The Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by - to terminate the initial Dynamic Form command sequence.

data

Represents the dynamic form data. Any text, graphics command sequences, or Dynamic Form Field Length, Copy or Repeat commands are entered as part of the data. (See Comments.)

This is not the dynamic data for the

variable

fields; this data represents all information required for the boilerplate form.

(cc)

Terminates the complete Dynamic Form command sequence. Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by ] or } to terminate the Dynamic Form processing. The dynamic data for the variable fields can be sent following termination of the completed Dynamic Form command.

Comments

Dynamic form commands allow a boilerplate form to be transmitted once. The data that changes with each form is provided in the variable data fields after the Dynamic Form command is terminated. Variable fields can include bar code data fields.

The Dynamic Form commands consist of the primary Dynamic Form command referenced above, which enables dynamic form generation, and three additional commands listed below. These additional commands are added to the primary command according to your particular dynamic form requirements:

•Dynamic Form Field Length (defined on page 67) specifies the number of data bytes expected to fill a variable data field.

•Dynamic Form Copy Fields (defined on page 69) copies fields within the form.

•Dynamic Form Repeat Form (defined on page 71) repeats the complete form.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Dynamic Form Special Command Definitions

The graphics carriage return, line feed, form feed, vertical tab, and universal terminator commands are interpreted differently when used within the Dynamic Form commands. These interpretations are described below.

(CR) Carriage Return (^-) - Fills the remainder of the current dynamic field with spaces. If this is the only input, the entire field is filled with spaces.

(LF) Line Feed (^*) - Fills (pads) the remainder of the current dynamic field and all remaining dynamic fields in the form with spaces. If this is the only input, the entire field is filled with spaces. If used within a dynamic copy command, all fields to the end of the current copy are filled with spaces. If used with a dynamic repeat command, all remaining fields of all copies are filled with spaces.

(FF) Form Feed (^,) - Performs the same function as LF, except for use within a dynamic copy command. If used within a dynamic copy command, all fields to the end of copy are filled with spaces, and all fields continue to fill with spaces until the copy count is complete.

(VT) Vertical Tab (^+) - Causes the remainder of the current dynamic field to be ignored. No data is printed in the current dynamic field if this is the only input in the field.

(G) Universal Terminator (^G) - Terminates the dynamic Form function and completes the current graphics command sequence.

Example Examples using the Dynamic Data command features are

provided following the discussion of each command.

Dynamic Form Commands

Dynamic Form: Field Length

Purpose Assigns a field length to each variable field in a boilerplate

dynamic form.

Format (cc)

t length

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

Specifies the Dynamic Form Field Length command. Enter [ or { to designate a field length follows.

length

Represents the field length. Enter a three-digit number to inform VGL how many data bytes are expected to fill a certain variable data field. Each variable data field on the form must have an associated field length.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

This Dynamic Form: Field Length command is supplied as part of the data within the Dynamic Form command. The length is assigned to a variable field at the current position based on all other commands and data within the Dynamic Form command. For example, if alphanumeric commands are input followed by a tab followed by this length command, the length is assigned beginning at the position after the alphanumeric command and tab are executed.

Each variable field in a boilerplate dynamic form must have a field length assigned. The field length specifies how many data bytes are required to fill the field. For example, a form might have a variable field called "quantity" which could be specified as three data bytes. VGL would then expect three data bytes supplied dynamically to fill that field.

Following the completed Dynamic Form command, the data is sent and the forms are processed. The data is sent in the order of the variable fields. The first data sent fills the first variable field; the second data sent fills the second variable field, etc. The data must be the same length as the field or special dynamic form commands (CR, LF, FF explained on page 66) must be used to fill the field.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example This example illustrates the Dynamic Form command. Three

variable fields are used: one each for Price, Quantity, and Total. Following the command sequence, the dynamic data is sent to fill the variable fields. The special use of the CR command for dynamic forms is shown in the example with the dynamic data.

^PY^-^F^^B^-^M02,02,000Price^T0220^[005^^M02,02,002Quantity^T0220^[002^^M02,02,002Total^T0220^[006^-^*^*^] $1.5004$6.00^$1.0525$26.25 $8.950^^G ^O^-^PN^-

Three sets of dynamic data in this example are defined as follows:

1. $1.50 Price, 04 Quantity, $6.00 Total, CR to fill with spaces

2. $1.05 Price, 25 Quantity, $26.25 total

3. $8.95 Price, 0 Quantity, CR to fill with spaces

4. End of data (^G)

Dynamic Form Commands

Dynamic Form: Copy Fields

Purpose Duplicates specific fields or data within a boilerplate dynamic

form.

Format (cc) C

# copydata

(cc)Z(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

C Specifies the Dynamic Form Copy Fields

command. Enter C to copy fields within the form.

# Specifies the number of copies. Enter a two-digit

number to inform VGL how many copies of the copy data to make within the form.

copydata

Represents the copy data. Any text or graphics command sequences (including Dynamic Form Field Length) are entered as part of the data.

This is

not

the dynamic data for the variable fields; this data represents all information to copy within the boilerplate form.

(cc)Z(cc)- Terminates the copy sequence. Enter the SFCC for

your VGL configuration immediately followed by Z, another SFCC, and - or another valid graphics command mnemonic to terminate the Dynamic Form Copy Fields sequence.

Comments

The dynamic copy command is supplied as part of the data within the Dynamic Form command. Do not use this command with the Dynamic Form: Repeat command (page 71).

The LF and FF commands (as previously described on page 66) have an additional meaning when used with Dynamic Form: Copy Fields commands.

Example The following example illustrates the Dynamic Form: Copy Fields

command. As in the previous example (page 68), the same three variable fields are used for Price, Quantity, and Total, except that the Price and Quantity fields are copied. Following the Dynamic Form command sequence, the dynamic data is sent to fill the variable fields. The special use of the LF command for dynamic form copy fields is shown in the example with the dynamic data.

^PY^-^F^^B^-^M02,02,000Price^T0160^[005^*^* ^C02^M01,01Quantity^T0100^[002 ^M01,01^T0170Total^T0250^[006^^*^Z^-^*^*^] $1.5004$06.00 10$15.00 $1.0525$26.25 50$52.50 $8.9502$17.90 ^* $8.95^,

Chapter 2 Command Codes

^G ^O^-^PN^-

The dynamic data in the above example is defined below.

1. $1.50 Price, 04 Quantity, $06.00 Total

2. 10 Quantity, $15.00 Total

3. $1.05 Price, 25 Quantity, $26.25 Total

4. 50 Quantity, $52.50 Total

5. $8.95 Price, 02 Quantity, $17.90 Total

6. End of data in these fields (^*)

7. $8.95 Price, 0 Quantity, and FF to fill all fields with spaces until copy count is complete.

8. End of data (^G)

dyn

Dynamic Form Commands

Dynamic Form: Repeat

Purpose Repeats (duplicates) an entire form within a boilerplate dynamic

form.

Format (cc) R

formdata

(cc)Z(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

R Specifies the Dynamic Form: Repeat command.

Enter R to repeat the boilerplate form.

formdata

Represents the dynamic form data. Any text, graphics command sequences, or dynamic form field length, are entered as part of the data.

This is

not

the dynamic data for the variable fields; this data represents all information required for the boilerplate form to be repeated. The number of copies of the form is specified as part of the dynamic data sequence after the dynamic form is processed.

(cc)Z(cc)- Terminates the repeat sequence. Enter the SFCC

for your VGL configuration immediately followed by Z, another SFCC, and - or another valid graphics command mnemonic to terminate the Dynamic Form Copy Fields sequence.

Comments

The Dynamic Form: Repeat command is supplied as the first input of the data parameter within the Dynamic Form command. Do not use this command with the Dynamic Form: Copy Fields command (page 69).

The LF and FF commands (as previously described on page 66) have an additional meaning when used with Dynamic Form: Repeat commands.

When the data is supplied, the first parameter becomes a fourdigit repeat number field. For example, 0003 before the first dynamic data byte specifies three repeated forms with the data. The repeat number field must be supplied with each set of data when the Dynamic Form: Repeat command is used. If only one copy of the form is required, enter 0001 as the repeat number.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example This example illustrates the Dynamic Form: Repeat command.

The Price field repeats with a five-digit field length. Following the Dynamic Form command sequence, the dynamic data with the repeat quantities is sent. The special use of the CR command for dynamic forms is shown in the example with the dynamic data.

^PY^-^F^^B^-^R^-^M00,00,000^T0160Price^[005^^*^*^Z^-^] 0003$1.50 0002$1.0^0001$8.95 0000^G ^O^-^PN^-

The dynamic data in this example is defined as:

1. 3 copies with $1.50 Price

2. 2 copies with $1.0 Price, CR to fill with spaces

3. 1 copy with $8.95 Price

4. No data (^G)

dyn.

Electronic Vertical Format Unit (EVFU)

Purpose To use the software-controlled vertical formatter which allows you

to program frequently used lines on forms and documents for efficient printing processes when merging operations (such as invoicing or payrolling).

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format See Table 7. NOTE: The codes in Table 7 are not supported on L7032 printers.

Table 7. EVFU Command Codes

EVFU Code Command

Start Load ^ >

Channel: 1 (TOF) ^ 0

Channel 2 ^ 1

Channel 3 ^ 2

Channel 4 ^ 3

Channel 5 ^ 4

Channel 6 ^ 5

Channel 7 ^ 6

Channel 8 ^ 7

Channel 9 ^ 8

Channel 10 ^ 9

Channel 11 ^ :

Channel 12 ^ ;

Channel 13 ^ <

Channel 14 ^ =

End Load ^ ?

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Comments

By flagging each line to be printed, the EVFU automatically moves the printhead to the identified lines. The EVFU provides 14 channels (line identification codes) to identify up to 132 lines on a form. For complete EVFU information, refer to your

Line

Printer Plus Programmer's Reference Manual

The EVFU is loaded with a program of line identification codes, one code for each line of the form. The program includes a Start Load code to initiate the load routine, a series of line identification codes, and an End Load code. After the memory is loaded, a line identification code occurring in the data stream causes the EVFU to slew to the identified line. To clear the EVFU memory, send a Start Load code with no channel codes or End Load code.

The Start Load, End Load, and Channel Code commands are listed in Table 7. A sample EVFU form is shown in Table 8.

Table 8. Sample EVFU Form

Form Data Form Line #

EVFU Load Program

EVFU Command Code

Start Load ^>

1Ch 2^1

2Ch 2^1

Company: Timmy’s Toys 3 Ch 1 ^0

4Ch 2^1

5Ch 2^1

6Ch 2^1

7Ch 2^1

Item: Tricycle 8 Ch 3 ^2

9Ch 2^1

Color: Red 10 Ch 4 ^3

11 Ch 2 ^1

12 Ch 2 ^1

Quantity: 45 13 Ch 5 ^4

14 Ch 2 ^1

15 Ch 2 ^1

P/O Number: TT-1203 16 Ch 6 ^5

17 Ch 2 ^1

Electronic Vertical Format Unit (EVFU)

The format for the form definition program sent from the host computer is as follows:

1. The EVFU Start Load code (^>) is sent first. VGL must be in the Graphics Mode to load and use the EVFU in the Graphics Mode.

2. The Channel 2 code (^1) is sent twice to assign the first two lines of the form as fillers. Filler lines are not called by the print program. The same channel code can be used to assign all filler lines of the form.

3. The Channel 1 code (^0), the top-of-form (TOF) code, is sent to assign form line number 3. This is the first line of the form with print data. In the sample form, this line is used for company name information. (Alternately, the TOF code could be assigned to the first line of the form and a unique channel code assigned to line 3.)

4. The Channel 2 code is again sent four times to assign line numbers 4 through 7 as fillers.

5. The Channel 3 code (^2) is sent to assign line number 8. In the sample form, this line is used for item information.

6. The Channel 2 code is sent to assign line number 9 as a filler.

7. The Channel 4 code (^3) is sent to assign line number 10. In the sample form, this line is used for color information.

8. The Channel 2 code is sent twice to assign line numbers 11 and 12 as a fillers.

9. The Channel 5 code (^4) is sent to assign line number 13. In the sample form, this line is used for quantity information.

10. The Channel 2 code is sent twice to assign line numbers 14 and 15 as a fillers.

11. The Channel 6 code (^5) is sent to assign line number 16. In the sample form, this line is used for purchase order number information.

12. The Channel 2 code is sent twice to assign line numbers 17 and 18 as a fillers.

13. The Channel 7 code (^6) is sent to assign line number 19. In the sample form, this line is used for date information.

14. The Channel 2 code is sent to assign line number 20 as a filler.

15. The EVFU End Load code (^?) is sent last to terminate the memory load routine.

18 Ch 2 ^1

Date: 12/24/86 19 Ch 7 ^6

20 Ch 2 ^1

End Load ^?

Table 8. Sample EVFU Form

Form Data Form Line #

EVFU Load Program

EVFU Command Code

Chapter 2 Command Codes

After the EVFU is loaded, sending one of the EVFU codes in the data stream (or as a line terminator) causes the printer to slew the paper to the line assigned to the EVFU code sent.

Emphasized Print

Purpose Selects emphasized (bold) character printing. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) @ E (cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

@ Specifies one of the @ commands. Enter @ to

begin an @ command function.

E Specifies the Emphasized Print command. Enter E

and all characters on the line are emphasized. Emphasized print is automatically reset upon receipt of the line terminator.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

Emphasized print is available when VGL is in the Graphics Mode. Emphasized print is a line-by-line print attribute; it is selected once and all characters in the line are emphasized. The @E command must be used prior to any printable data in the line, and it is automatically reset when a line terminator is received. When printing text, this command produces the same output as the Dark Print command.

Example The following example illustrates changing character type from

the standard characters to emphasized characters.

^PY^Standard Characters in the Graphics Mode^* ^@E^-Emphasized characters: ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOP^*^* ^PN^-

Emulation Switch

NOTE: The Emulation Switch command is not supported on L7032 printers. Purpose Switches to a different emulation. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IEMUL,

des

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IEMUL, The emulation switch command. Enter IEMUL,.

des

Three letter symbol to represent the emulation to switch to. Presently, PGL is the only choice available.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments Once the system is switched to a new emulation, VGL will be

reset as the default. There is no need to exit the graphic mode separately.

Font Load

Purpose Load binary TrueType font (.ttf) or Intellifont (.sf) into RAMDISK

or flash memory.

Mode Standard Graphics mode Format (cc)ILOAD,

name, size

[,DISK] (cc)G

data

(cc)G(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

ILOAD, The font load command. Enter ILOAD,.

name

Specify associated binary TrueType font or Intellifont data by name. Enter the name of the font, including its extension. The maximum length of the name is 8 characters and the maximum length of the extension is 3 characters. For example,

93952.sf specifies Courier Bold (Intellifont) and arial.ttf would represent Arial (TrueType). The

name is used by (cc) IFONT,N command.

size

Enter the size, in bytes, of the binary TrueType font or Intellifont data.

DISK Optional parameter to store the binary data in flash

memory. Enter DISK. By default, the binary data is stored in RAMDISK when DISK is not specified.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the ILOAD, command.

data

The binary TrueType font or Intellifont data to be stored in memory.

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the binary font

data

parameter.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comment When loading fonts to RAMDISK, the printer files will not be

saved to RAMDISK when the printer is powered off. When loading fonts to flash memory, the printer files will be saved when the printer is powered off. Both RAMDISK and flash memory support file operations such as saving, reading, and deleting files.

Font, Selecting Default (Version II)

Purpose Selects a default font. Mode Standard Graphics or Graphics with an Extended Graphics

Command selected. When this command is executed as an Extended Graphics command, descender mode automatically turns on.

Format (cc) IFONT,S,

(cc)G or (cc) IFONT,N,

name

(cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL

configuration. IFONT, Specifies the IFONT command. Enter IFONT,. S,

Represents the selected font value. Enter S,.

Replace

with a value ranging from 1 through 13, or 100 or 101, according to the IFONT values shown in Table 9 or as shown in the Font Values section below.

name

Represents the selected TrueType font or Intellifont (AGFA) by name. Enter N, and the

name

of the font with its extension. The maximum length of the name is 8 characters and the maximum length of the extension is 3 characters. For example,

93952.sf specifies Courier Bold (AGFA) and arial.ttf represents Arial (TrueType). If this

parameter is used, then IFONT S, should not be used.

(cc)G The universal terminator. Enter the SFCC for your

VGL configuration immediately followed by G to terminate the IFONT,S, command.

Font, Selecting Default (Version II)

NOTE: For thermal printers a Letter Gothic font at the higher quality NLQ is

always used.

Comments

When this command is used within an Extended Graphics command, the default font is selected for Extended Graphics printing and the four orientations of the Alphanumerics command (page 32) are available. When this command is used in a Standard Graphics command, the default font is selected for standard printing only.

Table 9. IFONT, Values

Font # (

) Font Description

1Draft 10 cpi 2Draft 12 cpi 3Draft 15 cpi 4Draft 7.5 cpi 5 NLQ 10 cpi 6 NLQ 12 cpi 7 NLQ 13.33 cpi 8 NLQ 15 cpi 9 NLQ 17.65 cpi

10 OCR-A Size 1 10 cpi

11 OCR-B Size 1 10 cpi 12 Draft 10 cpi 13 Draft 10 cpi

100 20 cpi 101 24 cpi

xxxxx

AGFA font or Bitmap font

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Font Values

The ^IFONT,S command is used to select proportional fonts. The following list indicates each of the font values and how they are used:

0 - 199 These values are already defined. When the

^IFONT command is received with one of these values, it selects the standard font (Letter Gothic) and selects the CPI (as shown in Table 9).

89001 - 89003 These values select an Printronix bitmap font

on the flash memory. The least significant digit indicates which font is selected (for example 89001 selects bitmap font 1). See “Bitmap Fonts” below.

90000 - 99999 These values select a Printronix proportional

font, as described below.

Font Selection

Fonts are selected using the ^IFONT command, as follows: ^IFONT,S,

XXXXX

The parameter

XXXXX

indicates the font selected. The rest of the command

is parsed and acted upon based upon the font number selected. ^IFONT,N,

name

Represents the selected TrueType font or Intellifont (AGFA) by name. Enter N, and the

name

of the font with its extension. The maximum length of the name is 8 characters and the maximum length of the extension is 3 characters.

Bitmap Fonts

Font values of 89001 - 89003 select a bitmap font. The size of the font is determined by the font. The font on the flash memory is in the HP

PCL®

Bitmap format. The file names for the fonts are CUSTOM

.FNT (where x is

the font number from 1 through 3)

Font, Selecting Default (Version II)

Printronix/AGFA Fonts

Font values of 90000 - 99999 select an AGFA font. When using an AGFA or TrueType font, additional optional parameters are available to modify the font. The syntax for selecting an AGFA font is:

^IFONT,S

,XXXXX

[,BOLD] [,RSLANT / ,LSLANT] [

POINT

WIDTH

]]^G

The syntax for selecting an AGFA or TrueType font by name is:

^IFONT,N

,name

[,BOLD] [,RSLANT / ,LSLANT] [

POINT

WIDTH

]]^G

The parameter

XXXXX

indicates the font to be selected, by number. If the font number is an AGFA font (value 90000 - 99999), then it selects the desired AGFA font, and also interprets the optional parameters. If a bitmap font is selected (value 89001 - 89003), then the font is selected, but no optional parameters are allowed. The

name

parameter indicates the font to be

selected, by name (e.g. “arial.ttf”) If the ,BOLD parameter is specified, the font is printed in bold. If the ,RSLANT

or ,LSLANT parameter is specified, the font is printed slanted to the left or right (pseudo-italics).

If the

POINT

parameter is specified, it selects the height (point size) of the

text. This is a numeric value in 1/4 points (1/288"). In addition if the

POINT

parameter is specified a

WIDTH

parameter may also be specified. If given, it is in 1/4 points (or 1/288"). If it is 0 or is not given, the standard aspect ratio is used.

The file name on the flash memory for the AGFA fonts is

XXXXX

.SF, where

XXXXX

is the font number.

Pass-through Mode

If the font is selected in standard graphics mode, it applies to all text in standard graphics mode. In addition, this font applies to text printed when outside graphics mode (i.e. after VGL is terminated with the ^PN^- command). If the UNIFORM FONTS menu selection is ENABLED, the typeface also applies to text within extended graphics mode. If it is DISABLED, the standard font is used within extended graphics mode, and returns to the selected font when the graphic pass is terminated.

Extended Graphic Mode

If the font is selected when in extended graphics mode, the font selected is the selected font for this graphics pass. If the UNIFORM FONTS selection is ENABLED, it also affects the typeface used for standard graphics mode text and future graphic passes. If the UNIFORM FONTS selection is DISABLED, it does not affect the font for standard graphics mode text or future graphic passes.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Examples

The following examples illustrate how to select a font using the IFONT,S, and IFONT,N, formats.

Example 1. To print “This is Courier font” in Courier font face:

^PY^-^M0202000^IFONT,S,93952^GThis is Courier font^-^PN^-

Example 2. To print “This is TrueType font” in Arial font face:

^PY^-^M0202000^IFONT,N,arial.ttf^GThis is TrueType font^-^PN^-

Fonts, Rotatable

Purpose Using special parameter values within any of the four

alphanumerics commands described on page 32, you can specify four different fonts.

Mode Normal resolution Graphics with an Extended Graphics

Command selected.

Format (cc)

expand font jus data

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

expand

Represents one of the alphanumeric command mnemonics: Enter M for horizontal, V for clockwise, E for counterclockwise, or U for inverted.

font

Represents the four-digit font parameter value which selects the font. Font parameter values are shown in Table 10.

jus

Normal Resolution: Defines vertical justification (position) for character printing in tenth inches and dot rows. Enter a threedigit value ranging from 000 through 999 to define the printing location down from the starting position of the command sequence. The first two digits specify 0.1 through 9.9 inches downward justification; the third digit specifies an additional 0 through 9 dot rows of downward justification. The decimal point between the first two digits is automatically understood by VGL and the third digit is automatically interpreted as dot rows.

High Resolution: Defines the horizontal length of the form in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit horizontal value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a horizontal length of 0.000 inch to 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits.

NOTE: If your data to be printed begin with a number (not a character), then

you must complete the field; otherwise, VGL assumes the number is a digit in the field value.

Fonts, Rotatable

data

The data characters for printing in the rotatable font.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

Compressed Print Density Fonts provide six other fonts with higher density print characteristics. See “Fonts, Compressed Print Density” on page 85.

Each of the three pitches, 10 cpi, 12 cpi, and 15 cpi (measured in characters per inch, cpi) produce non-expandable characters 0.1inch high and 3, 4, or 5 dot columns wide with a one-dot column intercharacter spacing.

The 7 cpi font produces non-expandable characters 0.2-inch high and 0.15-inch wide with a 2-dot column intercharacter spacing at approximately 7 cpi.

You can select any specific font from any of the four alphanumerics commands using the Font Parameter (special combinations of the alphanumeric command height and width parameters) as described in Table 10.

The Rot. Char Size option setting (from the front panel menu) determines if rotated (clockwise / counter-clockwise), expanded characters have a different size than an unrotated character with the same size parameters ("Adjusted") or the same size ("Not Adjusted"). The previous VGL version always operated in the Adjusted mode.

The Adjusted mode reflects rotating a fixed 5x7 cell character on a 60x72 dpi, non-symmetrical printer. The Not Adjusted mode reflects rotating on a symmetrical dpi printer.

Table 10. Rotatable Fonts

Font Size

Impact Printer Character Dimensions* (Vert X Horiz)

Alphanumeric Command Font Parameter Value

7 cpi 14 dots (V) X 8 dots 00,00

10 cpi 7 dots (V) X 5 dots 01,01

12 cpi 7 dots (V) X 4 dots 00,01

15 cpi 7 dots (V) X 3 dots 01,00

* 10, 12, and 15 cpi use an intercharacter spacing of one dot position. The

elongated font uses an intercharacter spacing of two dot positions. Vertical by horizontal dimensions above are based on the 60 X 72 dpi dots produced on line matrix printers.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Examples The following examples illustrate the available fonts. For each

example, the Graphics Mode command (^PY^-) was previously sent but not shown.

10 cpi Font - The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in 10 cpi:

^M01,01,000ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^-

12 cpi Font - The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in 12 cpi:

^M00,01,000ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^-

15 cpi Font - The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in 15 cpi:

^M01,00,000ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^-

7 cpi Font - The following command generates the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in 7 cpi:

^M00,00,000ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^-

Rotatable Font - The following commands combine rotated fonts with alphanumeric commands.

^M05,05,000IGP^M01,01,000IGP^-

font.ex1

font.e

Fonts, Compressed Print Density

^V03,03,0003 X 3^V01,00,000IGP^-

Fonts, Compressed Print Density

Purpose Defines the horizontal print density in characters per inch (cpi). Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) S

f data

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

S The Compressed Print Density command. Enter S.

Represents the Compressed Print Density font. Replace

with a value ranging from 1 through 9 to select the compressed print density font as described in Table 11. Standard print density is 10 cpi. Each character font is .1-inch high. The font sizes are illustrated in the examples beginning on page 87.

data

The data characters for printing in the Compressed Print Density font.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

font.ex6

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Comments

Use Compressed Print Density commands as part of the Alphanumerics command. Reverse print and rotated commands are not available with the Compressed Print feature. Characters selected with this command print only in the standard horizontal orientation. A Reverse Print or rotated alphanumeric command specified in the command sequence is ignored.

Table 11. Compressed Print Density Font Selection

Font Selected

1 10 cpi

2 12 cpi

3 13.33 cpi

4 15 cpi

5 17.65 cpi

6 OCR-A font at 10 cpi

7 OCR-B font at 10 cpi

8 12 cpi

9 15 cpi

Fonts, Compressed Print Density

Compressed Print Density Font Examples

The following examples illustrate the commands and print samples which generate the uppercase alphabet with numbers 0-9 in the available compressed print density fonts. Notice the height and width parameters of the alphanumerics command does not apply to the data specified for compressed print.

= 1 (10 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S1ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

= 2 (12 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S2ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

= 3 (13.33 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S3ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

= 4 (15 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S4ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

den

densit

density.e

Chapter 2 Command Codes

= 5 (17.65 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S5ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

= 6 (OCR-A 10 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S6ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

= 7 (OCR-B 10 cpi)

^PY^^M03,02,000^S7ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 0123456789^^PN^-

Form Feed

Purpose Performs a form feed (hex 0C) function to advance the paper to

the next top of form, or may be used to terminate a graphics command.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc),

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

, The graphics FF mnemonic. Enter ,.

Comments

The form feed command functions as a terminator only when used to terminate a graphics sequence in a graphics command when Free Format is enabled.

The control panel form feed key will operate differently dependent on the source of form feed control at the time the key is pressed. Form feed is controlled by the LP+ and VGL emulation at different times.

density

Form Length

Purpose Defines the length of the form in total number of lines. Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) L

length

(cc)-

(cc) H

length

(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

L or H The Form Length command. If your VGL is

configured with the PI line enabled, enter L. If your VGL is configured with the PI line disabled, enter H.

length

Represents the form length in total number of lines. Enter a two-digit number of total lines on the form ranging from 01 through 99. For example, enter 05 for a 5-line form length, 21 for a 21-line form length.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

Comments

The L command is available any time VGL is in the Graphics Mode. The physical length of the paper for the form is a product of the total lines per form and the current lines per inch (lpi) setting for the printer. For example, a typical 66-line form at 6 lpi is 11 inches long. A 48-line form at 6 lpi is 8 inches long; the same 48-line form at 8 lpi is 6 inches long.

Form feeds following this command advance the form from the current print position to the top of the next form.

With the Host Form Length configuration option enabled, the form length defined by this command sets the physical page length on the printer.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Forms Construction

Purpose Produces vertical lines inside a box to construct forms. Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) LF

horz vert h v line1 t line2 t

(cc)G(cc)-

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

LF The Forms Construction command. Enter LF.

horz

Normal Resolution: Defines the horizontal length of the form in tenth inches and dot columns. Enter a three-digit horizontal length value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a horizontal length of 00.0 through

High Resolution: Defines the horizontal length of the form in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit horizontal value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a horizontal length of 0.000 inch through 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits. The

horz

field must be at least twice the value of the thickness of the vertical sides (

vert

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical length of the form in tenth inches and dot rows. Enter a three-digit vertical length value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a vertical length of 00.0 through 99.9 inches and a fourth digit ranging from 0 through 9 to specify 0 through 9 additional dot rows of length. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits for tenth inches and automatically interprets the fourth digit as dot rows. For example, entering 0204 specifies a 2.0-inch plus 4dot row vertical length; entering 0242 specifies a

2.4-inch plus 2-dot row vertical length.

Forms Construction

vert

High Resolution: Defines the vertical length of the form in thousandth inches. Enter a five-digit vertical value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a vertical length of

0.000 inch through 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits. The

vert

field must be at least twice the value of the thickness of the horizontal sides (

Normal Resolution: Defines the horizontal border thickness in dot columns. Enter a number ranging from 1 through 9 to specify a horizontal border thickness from 1 through 9 dots.

High Resolution: Defines the horizontal border thickness in thousandth inches. Enter a number ranging from 000 through 999 to specify a border thickness from

0.000 through 0.999 inch. VGL automatically understands the decimal before the first digit.

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical border thickness in dot rows. Enter a number ranging from 1 through 9 to specify a vertical border thickness from 1 through 9 dots.

High Resolution: Defines the vertical border thickness in thousandth inches. Enter a number ranging from 000 through 999 to specify a border thickness from 0.000 through 0.999 inch. VGL automatically understands the decimal before the first digit.

line1

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical line position in tenth inches and dot columns from the form left edge or prior vertical line right edge. Therefore, the line value for all but the first vertical line is actually the gap between the right edge of the previous line and the left edge of the current line. Enter a three-digit position value ranging from 000 through 999 to define a position of 00.0 through 99.9 inches and a fourth digit ranging from 0 through 9 to specify 0 through 9 additional dot columns. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits for tenth inches and automatically interprets the fourth digit as dot columns. For example, entering 0126 specifies a 1.2-inch plus 6-dot column position from the left edge or last vertical line position; entering 1016 specifies a 10.1-inch plus 6-dot column position.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

line1

High Resolution: Defines the vertical line position in thousandth inches from the form left edge or prior vertical line right edge. The line value for all but the first vertical line, therefore, is actually the gap between the right edge of the previous line and the left edge of the current line. Enter a five-digit position value ranging from 00000 through 99999 to define a position of

00.000 inch through 99.999 inches. VGL automatically understands the decimal between the second and third digits.

Normal Resolution: Defines the vertical line thickness in dot columns. Enter a number ranging from 1 through 9 to specify a line thickness from 1 through 9 dots.

High Resolution: Defines the vertical line thickness in thousandth inches. Enter a number ranging from 000 through 999 to specify a line thickness from .000 inch through .999 inch.

line2

The line position parameter is entered repeatedly as needed for the number of lines required in the form.

The line thickness parameter is entered for each vertical line position parameter.

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command to end the input of vertical line and form data.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR used as a sequence terminator.

Enter the SFCC for your configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

NOTE: You must supply leading and trailing zeros for all fields.

Comments

The LF command produces vertical lines inside a box using a single command sequence. Forms are positioned by the parameters or commands of an alphanumerics command sequence (such as horizontal tabs, the justification parameter, etc.). Therefore, one of the alphanumerics commands must precede an LF command.

Using appropriate values for the horizontal and vertical length parameters constructs a variety of form shapes. The horizontal and vertical border thickness can also be specified in varying line thicknesses. Any number of vertical lines can be drawn inside the form. The position of the vertical line is based on the left edge of the form or the last vertical line drawn.

Forms, Creating Dynamic (Version II)

Example The following sample command illustrates forms construction in

normal resolution. In addition to enabling the Free Format, an alphanumerics command was sent for form positioning.

^PY^-^F^^M01,01,000 ^LF0500,0320,2,2,0123,1,0200,3,0090,1^G^^O^-^PN^-

Forms, Creating Dynamic (Version II)

NOTE: This command operates similar to the Dynamic Form Commands

described beginning on page 65.

Purpose Creates a new dynamic form and stores it in memory under a

specified name.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,C

name

[,DISK] (cc)G

data

(cc)]

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,C The command to create buffered forms. Enter

IFORM,C.

name

Represents the form name. Enter a name up to 15 characters long. Another form in memory by the same name is overwritten with the new form.

DISK Optional parameter to store the form in the printer’s

flash memory. Enter DISK.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command to end the input of the form name.

data

The form data. Enter any number of valid Graphics or Extended Graphics command sequences.

(cc)] Ends the form and all contents. Enter the specific

SFCC for your VGL configuration followed by the right bracket ( ] ) to end the form.

Forms, Deleting Dynamic (Version II)

Purpose Deletes an existing dynamic form stored in memory under a

specified name.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,D

name

(cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,D The command to delete the form. Enter IFORM,D.

name

Represents the form name. Enter the form name exactly as created in the IFORM,C command (page

93).

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command terminator to end the data.

Forms, Executing Dynamic (Version II)

NOTE: This command operates similar to the Dynamic Form Commands

described beginning on page 65.

Purpose Executes an existing dynamic form stored in memory under a

specified name.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,E

name

[,DISK] (cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,E The command to execute the form. Enter

IFORM,E.

name

Represents the form name. Enter the form name exactly as created in the IFORM,C command (page 93).

Forms, Listing Dynamic (Version II)

DISK Optional parameter to print the form stored in the

printer’s flash memory.

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command terminator to end the data.

Forms, Listing Dynamic (Version II)

Purpose Lists all previously created forms including the form size, in bytes,

used by each form name.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,L (cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,L The command to list the forms in memory. Enter

IFORM,L.

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command terminator to end the data.

Forms, Predefined (Version II)

Purpose Loads one of three predefined forms from memory (AIAG,

Primary Metals, and Odette). These forms are selected and completed using the commands and legends described.

Mode Graphics with standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,E

formname

.QMS (cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,E

formname

.QMS The command to retrieve the specified predefined form. Enter IFORM,E

formname

.QMS, where

formname

ia AIAG, METALS, or ODETTE.

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command terminator to end the data.

Comments The IFORM,E command not only loads the desired predefined

form, but provides the means to fill out the form. The following three examples show the method of specifying the data to be placed on the forms.

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example 1 The following sample command illustrates forms construction

after loading the AIAG form from memory.

^PY^-^F^^IFORM,EAIAG.QMS^G 14015248^+ 14015248^+ 900^+900^+ 046068722 046068722 1284^+1284^+ Acme Motor Company^+ ^G ^O^-^PN^-

Forms, Predefined (Version II)

Example 2 The following sample command illustrates forms construction

after loading the Primary Metals form from memory.

^IFORM,EMETALS.QMS^G D9ABAB37401C^+D9ABAB37401C^+ 51403^+51403^+ B1834001^+B1834001^+ 06-441001-6075906-441001-60759^+ 0072818^+0072818^+ 3812038120 3740137401 1^+1^+ .034^+

44.000^+ COIL^+ GA SJ EX 6M61X^ TRIAL COIL^+ REF.4162A-216^+ ^G

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Example 3 The following sample command illustrates forms construction

after loading the Odette form from memory.

^IFORM,EODETTE.QMS^G ABC CAR CORP^+ DETROIT^+

-005^+ 143576451143576451 CHICAGO^ 240^+270^+ 16-6^+1345935^+ 1882^+1882^+ P04^+^+880223 216231627S216231627 8801006^+8801006^+ CHICAGO, IL^+^G

Forms, Resetting Dynamic (Version II)

Purpose Resets dynamic form memory by deleting all forms stored in

memory.

Mode Graphics with an Extended Graphics Command selected Format (cc) IFORM,R (cc)G

(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

IFORM,R The command to reset forms memory. Enter

IFORM,R.

(cc)G Terminator. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by G, the universal terminator, or another valid Graphics Mode command terminator to end the data.

Comments

Standard predefined forms are not deleted from forms memory with this command. If predefined forms were previously deleted, they are reinstalled in the forms memory after execution of this command.

Free Format (Enable/Disable)

Purpose Enables VGL to ignore all host generated paper motion

commands ranging from hex 00 through 1F.

Mode Graphics with a Standard Graphics Command selected Format (cc) F (cc)-

data

(cc) O (cc)(cc) Represents the Special Function Control Code

(SFCC). Enter the specific SFCC for your VGL configuration.

F Specifies the Free Format command. Enter F. (cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

data

Represents the data, commands, and all other codes for processing in Free Format. All VGL features are available with Free Format enabled.

(cc)O Turns off the Free Format mode. Following the data

for processing in the Free Format, enter the SFCC for your VGL configuration immediately followed by O (alpha O) to end the Free Format.

(cc)- Graphics Mode CR. Enter the SFCC for your VGL

configuration immediately followed by - to end the command sequence.

100

Chapter 2 Command Codes

Comments

Some host systems automatically generate forms control codes such as CR or LF after a specific number of characters. These host generated forms control codes could prematurely terminate the graphics command sequence. The Free Format command allows VGL to accept incoming data as one continuous stream even though the data stream may include host generated forms control codes.

Free Format is available when VGL is in the Graphics Mode. When enabled, VGL recognizes only the Free Format terminator commands (Table 12) for forms control until the Free Format is disabled. If the Graphics Mode is disabled, Free Format command is automatically disabled.

NOTE: Free Format commands may be used in the normal Graphics Mode

even though Free Format is not enabled. However, when the Free Format command

is enabled

, the only valid terminators are the Free

Format commands; others are ignored.

Example The following command enables and disables Free Format in the

Graphics Mode.

^PN^-^F^data ^O^-PN^-

Table 12. Free Format Terminator Commands

Command Meaning

^ * Line Feed (LF)

^ , Form Feed (FF)

^ - Carriage Return (CR)

^ + Vertical Tab (VT)

^ > EVFU Start Load

^ ? EVFU End Load

^ 0-9 EVFU Chs 1 - 10

^ : EVFU Ch 11

^ ; EVFU Ch 12

^ < EVFU Ch 13

^ = EVFU Ch 14

Printronix L7032 Programmer's Reference Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual