SATO GL412e, GL408e Reference

SBPL PROGRAMMING REFERENCE

For printer model:

GL408e / GL412e

www.satoamerica.com

Read this Programming Guide before and during any development work in SBPL. Keep
this Guide handy for future reference.

31$

SATO America, Inc.

10350A Nations Ford Road

Charlotte, NC 28273

Main Phone: [phone]

Technical Support: [phone]

Technical Support Fax: [phone]

E-Mail: [e-mail]

[e-mail]

www.satoamerica.com

Copyright 2009 SATO America, Inc.

All rights reserved.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

About This Manual 1-2
Print Area Calculation 1-3

PROGRAMMING CONCEPTS

Programming Language 2-2
Selecting Protocol Codes 2-3
Using Basic 2-4
Print Position Commands 2-6

COMMAND CODE QUICK REFERENCE

A: <ESC>A Start Label 3-2

<ESC>~A Cut, Label 3-2
<ESC>~a Cut, Job 3-2
<ESC>~B Cut, Last 3-2
<ESC>AO Auto Online 3-2
<ESC>A1 Media Size 3-2
<ESC>& Form Overlay, Store 3-2
<ESC>AR Standard Print Area 3-2
<ESC>&R Form Overlay, Recall 3-2
<ESC>&S Form Overlay, Store 3-2
<ESC>* Clear (Memory Card) 3-3
<ESC>@ Offline/Pause 3-3
<ESC>A3 Start Point Correction 3-3
<ESC>AX Print Area Enlargement 3-3

B: <ESC>B Barcode, Ratio 1:3 3-4

<ESC>BC CODE 93 Barcode 3-4
<ESC>BD Barcode, Ratio 2:5 3-4
<ESC>BF Bookland 3-5
<ESC>BG CODE 128 Barcode 3-5
<ESC>BI UCC/EAN 128 3-5
<ESC>BJ True Type Font, Store 3-5
<ESC>BJD True Type Font, Download Bit Mapped Data 3-5
<ESC>BJF Card, Format 3-5
<ESC>BJS Print Memory Card Status 3-5
<ESC>BJT True Type Font, Recall 3-6
<ESC>BK PDF 417 3-6
<ESC>BP Postnet 3-6
<ESC>BQ QR Code 3-7
<ESC>BT Variable Ratio Barcodes 3-7
<ESC>BV Maxi Code 3-8
<ESC>BW Barcode Expansion 3-8
<ESC>BX Data Matrix Code 3-8

C: <ESC>C Repeat Label 3-8

<ESC>CC Card, Slot for Use 3-8
<ESC>CL CL/LF Deletion 3-9
<ESC>CS Print Speed 3-9

D: <ESC>D Barcode, Ratio 1:2 3-9

<ESC>d Barcode, Human Readable Information (HRI) 3-9
<ESC>DC Data Matrix Code, Data 3-9
<ESC>$ Font, Vector 3-10
<ESC>$= Outline Font Print 3-10

E: <ESC>E Line Feed 3-10

<ESC>EP Print End Position 3-10
<ESC>EU EAN/UCC Composite Symbol 3-10
<ESC>EX0 Print Length Expansion 3-10

F: <ESC>F Sequential Numbering 3-10

<ESC>FC Printing, Circles 3-11

i

<ESC>FM Memory Cartridge Format 3-11
<ESC>FP Memory Cartridge Printing 3-11
<ESC>FT Printing, Triangles 3-11
<ESC>FW Printing, Lines & Boxes 3-11
<ESC>FX Data Matrix Code, Sequential Number 3-12

G: <ESC>G Graphics, Custom 3-12

<ESC>GC BMP File, Recall 3-12
<ESC>GI Graphic, Store 3-12
<ESC>GM Graphics, BMP File 3-12
<ESC>GP Graphics, PCX File 3-12
<ESC>GR Graphic, Recall 3-13
<ESC>GT BMP File, Store 3-13

H: <ESC>H Horizontal Print Position 3-13
I: <ESC>ID Job Store ID 3-13
J: <ESC>J Journal Printing 3-13

K: <ESC>K Custom Designed Characters, Recall 3-13
L: <ESC>L Character, Expansion 3-13

<ESC>LA Language 3-13
<ESC>LD User Download 3-14
<ESC>LF Online Feed 3-14
<ESC>LH Zero Slash 3-14

M: <ESC>M M Font 3-14
N: <ESC>NC Auto Feed, Cut 3-14
O: <ESC>OA OA Font 3-14

<ESC>OB OB Font 3-14
<ESC>OL Online 3-14

P: <ESC>P Character, Pitch 3-14

<ESC>( Reverse Image 3-14
<ESC>PC Flash ROM Setup 3-14
<ESC>#E Print Darkness 3-14
<ESC>% Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point 3-14
<ESC>PG EEPROM Setup 3-14
<ESC>PI PCX File, Store 3-14
<ESC>PR Character, Fixed Spacing 3-14
<ESC>PS Character, Proportional Spacing 3-15
<ESC>PY PCX File, Recall 3-15

Q: <ESC>Q Print Quantity 3-15
R: <ESC>RD Font, Raster 3-15

<ESC>RF Recall and Print of Font & Logo 3-15
<ESC>RM Mirror Image 3-15

S: <ESC>S S Font 3-15

<ESC>/ Form Overlay, Recall 3-15
<ESC>/D Field, Recall 3-16
<ESC>/N Field, Store 3-16

T: <ESC>T Custom designed Characters 3-16
U: <ESC>U U Font 3-16
V: <ESC>V Vertical Print Position 3-16
W: <ESC>WA Calendar Printing 3-16

<ESC>WB WB Font 3-17
<ESC>WDH Copy Image Area (Partial Copy) 3-17
<ESC>WK Job Name 3-17
<ESC>WL WL Font 3-17
<ESC>WP Calendar Increment 3-17
<ESC>WT Calendar Configuration 3-17

X: <ESC>XB XB Font 3-17

<ESC>XL XL Font 3-18
<ESC>XM XM Font 3-18
<ESC>XS XS Font 3-18
<ESC>XU XU Font 3-18

Y: <ESC>YR Format, Recall 3-18

<ESC>YS Format, Store 3-18

Z: <ESC>Z Stop Label 3-18

<ESC>0 Replace Data (Partial Edit) 3-18

ii

STANDARD COMMAND CODES

Control Commands 4-2

<ESC>A Start Label 4-2
<ESC>Z Stop Label 4-2
<ESC>Q Print Quantity 4-3
<ESC>ID Job ID Store 4-4
<ESC>WK Job Name 4-5

Modification Commands 4-6

<ESC>L Character, Expansion 4-6
<ESC>P Character, Pitch 4-7
<ESC>PR Character, Fixed Spacing 4-8
<ESC>PS Character, Proportional Spacing 4-8
<ESC>% Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point 4-9
<ESC>F Sequential Numbering 4-10
<ESC>FC Print, Circles 4-11
<ESC>FT Print, Triangles 4-12
<ESC>FW Print, Lines & Boxes 4-13
<ESC>( Reverse Image 4-14
<ESC>& Form Overlay, Store 4-15
<ESC>/ Form Overlay, Recall 4-16
<ESC>0 Replace Data (Partial Edit) 4-17
<ESC>WD Copy Image Area (Partial Copy) 4-18
<ESC>J Journal Printing 4-19
<ESC>RF Recall and Print of Font & Logo 4-20
<ESC>RM Mirror Image 4-21

Print Position Commands 4-22

<ESC>A1 Media Size 4-22
<ESC>H Horizontal Print Position 4-23
<ESC>V Vertical Print Position 4-23

Font Commands 4-24

<ESC>XB XB Font 4-24
<ESC>XL XL Font 4-24
<ESC>XM XM Font 4-24
<ESC>XS XS Font 4-24
<ESC>XU XU Font 4-24
<ESC>S S Font 4-24
<ESC>M M Font 4-24
<ESC>U U Font 4-24
<ESC>OA OA Font 4-24
<ESC>OB OB Font 4-24
<ESC>WB WB Font 4-25
<ESC>WL WL Font 4-25
<ESC>RD Font, Raster 4-26
<ESC>$ Font, Vector 4-27
<ESC>$= Outline Font Print 4-27

Barcode Commands 4-28

<ESC>B Barcode, Ratio 1:3 4-28
<ESC>BD Barcode, Ratio 2:5 4-28
<ESC>D Barcode, Ratio 1:2 4-28
<ESC>d Barcode, Human Readable Information (HRI) 4-31
<ESC>EU EAN/UCC Composite Symbol 4-32
<ESC>BC CODE 93 Barcode 4-33
<ESC>BF Bookland 4-34
<ESC>BG CODE 128 Barcode 4-35
<ESC>BI UCC/EAN 128 4-36
<ESC>BP Postnet 4-38
<ESC>BT Variable Ratio Barcodes 4-39
<ESC>BW Barcode Expansion 4-40

2D Code Commands 4-41

<ESC>BK PDF417 4-41
<ESC>BQ QR Code 4-42

iii

<ESC>BV Maxi Code 4-43
<ESC>BX Data Matrix Code 4-44
<ESC>DC Data Matrix Code, Data 4-45
<ESC>FX Data Matrix Code, Sequential Number 4-46

System Commands 4-47

<ESC>CS Print Speed 4-47
<ESC>#E Print Darkness 4-48
<ESC>NC Cutting Operation 4-49
<ESC>A3 Base Reference Point 4-50
<ESC>AR Print Area, Standard 4-51
<ESC>AX Print Area Enlargement 4-51
<ESC>EP Print End Position 4-51
<ESC>~a Cut, Job 4-52
<ESC>~A Cut, Label 4-53
<ESC>~B Cut, Last 4-54
<ESC>* Clear Print Jobs & Memory 4-55
<ESC>@ Offline/Pause 4-56
<ESC>OL Online 4-56
<ESC>C Repeat Label 4-57
<ESC>PG EEPROM Setup 4-58
<ESC>PC Flash ROM Setup 4-58
<ESC>I2 Serial Interface, Configuration 4-59
<ESC>IG Sensor Type Selection 4-60
<ESC>E Line Feed 4-61
<ESC>LD User Download 4-62
<ESC>LA Language 4-63
<ESC>CL CL/LF Deletion 4-63
<ESC>LH Zero Slash 4-64
<ESC>AO Auto Online 4-64
<ESC>LF Online Feed 4-65
<ESC>EX0 Print Length Expansion 4-66

Graphic Commands 4-67

<ESC>G Graphics, Custom 4-67
<ESC>GM Graphics, BMP File 4-68
<ESC>GP Graphics, PCX File 4-69
<ESC>WDH Copy Image Area 4-70

OPTIONAL COMMAND CODES

Calendar Commands 5-2

<ESC>WA Calendar Printing 5-2
<ESC>WP Calendar Increment 5-3
<ESC>WT Calendar Configuration 5-4

Memory Card Commands 5-5

<ESC>CC Card, Slot for Use 5-5
<ESC>BJF Card, Format 5-6
<ESC>FM Memory Cartridge Format 5-7
<ESC>FP Memory Cartridge Printing 5-7
<ESC>* Memory Card Clear 5-8
<ESC>BJS Print Memory Card Status 5-9
<ESC>BJT True Type Font, Recall 5-10
<ESC>BJ/BJD True Type Font, Store 5-11
<ESC>YR/ID Format/Field, Recall 5-12
<ESC>YS/IN Format/Field, Store 5-13
<ESC>&R Form Overlay, Recall 5-14
<ESC>&S Form Overlay, Store 5-15
<ESC>GC BMP File, Recall 5-17
<ESC>GT BMP File, Store 5-18
<ESC>PY PCX File, Recall 5-19
<ESC>PI PCX File, Store 5-20
<ESC>GR Custom Graphic, Recall 5-21
<ESC>GI Custom Graphic, Store 5-22
<ESC>T Character, Custom Designed 5-23

iv

BI-DIRECTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS

Introduction 6-2

General Configuration 6-2
Serial Interface 6-2
Receive Buffer 6-2
Data Transmission 6-2

Enquire & Response 6-3

Enquire (SOH + ENQ) 6-3
Cancel (SOH + CAN) 6-3
Print Job 6-3
Print Stop (SOH + DLE) 6-3
Print Start (SOH + DC1) 6-4
Obtain History Data (SOH + LW) 6-4
Release Return Error (SOH + SUB) 6-4
Printer Status (SOH + MG) 6-4
Counter Status (SOH + ME) 6-5
Sensor Status (SOH + SG) 6-5
Head Status (SOH + HC) 6-5
System Version Information (SOH + SB) 6-5
Memory Status (SOH + EB) 6-5
Format Overlay Status (SOH + FO) 6-5
Font Configuration (SOH + FG) 6-5
Interface Status (SOH + IG) 6-5
Interface Settings (SOH + H2) 6-5
Item Number Check 6-6
BCC Check (Block Check Code) 6-6
Designation of Start Item Number (ESC + IQ) 6-6
Designation of Switching Status 5 Return (ESC+ PL) 6-7
Designation of Status 5 Return Check (ESC+ CR) 6-7

APPENDIX

Custom Characters & Graphics 7-2

Custom Designed Character Example 7-2
Custom Graphics Example 7-4
PCX Graphics Example 7-7

Custom Protocol Codes 7-9
Reference Tables 7-10

Table 1: Valid Commands (<ESC>L) 7-10
Table 2: Valid Commands (<ESC>P) 7-10
Table 3: Valid Commands (<ESC>PR) 7-10
Table 4: Valid Commands (<ESC>PS) 7-10
Table 5: Valid Commands (<ESC>%) 7-10
Table 6: Valid Commands (<ESC>F) 7-10
Table 7: Valid Commands (<ESC>&) 7-11
Table 8: Valid Commands (<ESC>/) 7-11
Table 9: Valid Commands (<ESC>H) 7-11
Table 10: Valid Commands (<ESC>V) 7-11
Table 11: Valid Commands (<ESC>XU, XS, XM, XB, XL) 7-11
Table 12: Character Font Set (<ESC>XU) 7-12
Table 13: Character Font Set (<ESC>XS) 7-12
Table 14: Character Font Set (<ESC>XM) 7-13
Table 15: Character Font Set (<ESC>XB) 7-13
Table 16: Character Font Set (<ESC>XL) 7-14
Table 17: Valid Commands (<ESC>OA, OB) 7-14
Table 18: Character Font Set (<ESC>OA) 7-15
Table 19: Character Font Set (<ESC>OB) 7-15
Table 20: Valid Commands (<ESC>RD) 7-16
Table 21: Valid Commands (<ESC>$) 7-16
Table 22: Valid Commands (<ESC>$=) 7-16
Table 23: Barcode Type (<ESC>B) 7-16
Table 24: Barcode Type (<ESC>BD) 7-17
Table 25: Barcode Type (<ESC>D) 7-17

v

Table 26: CODE128 Data Values (<ESC>BG) 7-18
Table 27: Format ID List (<ESC>BX) 7-19
Table 28: Parameters (<ESC>PG) 7-19
Table 29: Parameters (<ESC>PC) 7-21
Table 30: Parameters (<ESC>LD) 7-22
Table 31: Valid Commands (<ESC>YS) 7-22
Table 32: Invalid Commands (<ESC>YS) 7-22
Table 33: Valid Commands (<ESC>&R) 7-23
Table 34: Valid Commands (<ESC>&S) 7-23
Table 35: Error Commands (<ESC>&S) 7-23
Table 36: Valid Commands (<ESC>/N) 7-24
Table 37: Specified Item Status 7-24
Table 38: Item Status In Process 7-24

SATO CONTACTS 8-1

vi

Unit 1: Introduction

INTRODUCTION

• About This Manual

• Print Area Calculation

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 1-1

Unit 1: Introduction

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This manual is laid out consistent with the product discussed and provides all of the information
required for printer programming.

This manual also incorporates the use of special information boxes. Examples of these boxes
and the type of information provided in each, are below.

WARNING: PROVIDES INFORMATION THAT, IF UNHEEDED, MAY
RESULT IN PRESONAL INJURY.

CAUTION: PROVIDES INFORMATION THAT, IF UNHEEDED, MAY

RESULT IN EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.

NOTE: Provides helpful hints to assist in performing the tasks at hand.

LCD DISPLAY: Provides the specific display that should be visible on the
LCD at that point.

A comprehensive Table Of Contents provided at the front of this manual facilitates rapid
movement within. The contents identify the different Units, Chapters, and Sections. Each
references the page number of their commencement.

The pages of this manual have embedded headers and footers to assist the user in identifying
his or her exact position within the manual. The header provides the unit number followed by its
name. The footer identifies the product on the left and the page number to the right side of the
page.

Page enumeration is two-part with each separated by a hyphen. The first character set
references the Unit and the second identifies the page number. Page numbers begin with the
numeral (1) one at the commencement of a new unit and ascends sequentially.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 1-2

Unit 1: Introduction

PRINT AREA CALCULATION

Many print applications may not require labels that fill the entire printable area of the printer.
Therefore it is important to understand how to calculate print size so that the printed image does
not exceed the label size.

There are two axis to consider when calculating for print position; horizontal and vertical. The
horizontal axis is lateral positioning parallel with the print head and is measured from the right
side of the media to the left. The vertical axis is the label length from the front to its rear.

This juncture point of the horizontal and vertical axis is referred to as the Base Reference Point
(or zero point) and all measurement is incremental along those axis’ from there. The allowable
ranges for these references is dependent on the particular printer to accommodate different print
widths and resolutions.

A1 COMMAND

The A1 command is the preferred method of configuring the printer for media size. If using media
smaller than the print head width, use this command to specify the media size and adjust the
start position corresponding to that. The backing paper must be included in media size
considerations. This command would be as follows:

<A1>aaaaabbbb

a = Height of Label

b = Width of Label

NOTE: The valid ranges for each of the above may be found in the product
manuals.

A3 COMMAND

Before beginning to send code, one must perform some simple calculations to determine print
positioning. Firstly, determine the print resolution and maximum print width of the printer. This
information is provided in the Technical Data unit of the Operator Manual and Service Manuals.

The print resolution of the print head has a direct bearing on the “dots per inch” (DPI) of print
density. The corresponding formula for a 203 Resolution print head on a printer with 4.1
Maximum Print Width would be:

Resolution (DPI) x Maximum Printable Width (Linear Inches) =

Maximum Printable Width (Linear Dots)

203 (DPI) x 4.1 (Linear Inches) = 832 (Linear Dots)

Once this is done, one must calculate the label width in linear dots. That formula would be as
follows for a 2 inch wide label:

Resolution (DPI) x Label Width (Linear Inches) =

Label Width (Linear Dots)

203 (DPI) x 2.0 (Linear Inches) = 406 (Linear Dots)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 1-3

Unit 1: Introduction

POWER

ON LINE

STATUS LABEL RIBBON

LINE

FEED

Print Head

LABEL

LABEL

Label Width

Label Length

Maximum Printable Width

Initial Base Reference Point

Print Offset

New Base Reference Point

Lastly, one must calculate the horizontal distance to offset printing to accommodate for the
difference in size from the printer’s maximum printable width to the label width. That formula
would be as follows using the above examples:

Maximum Printable Width (Linear Dots) - Label Width (Linear Dots) =

Print Offset (Linear Dots)

832 (Linear Dots) - 406 (Linear Dots) = 426 (Linear Dots)

In the above example, 426 would be the required command entry to reset the initial base
reference point (or zero point) to the new base reference point (or zero point) based on the
label’s width.

Note that with each additional horizontal or vertical adjustment, the New Base Reference Point
will always be positioned relative to the last base reference point - not the Initial Base Reference
Point. In other words, the only way to return to the Initial Base Reference Point is to either
commands to reverse the prior commands or to delete all positioning commands to return the
printer to its default state.

Figure 1-1, Print Area Calculation

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 1-4

PROGRAMMING

CONCEPTS

• Programming Language

• Selecting Protocol Codes

• Using Basic

• Print Position Commands

• GL-specific Commands

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-1

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE

A programming language for a printer is a familiar concept to most programmers. It is a group of
commands that are designed to use the internal intelligence of the printer. The commands, which
are referred to as SATO Command Codes, contain non-printable ASCII characters (such as
<STX>, <ETX>, <ESC>) and printable characters. These commands must be assembled into an
organized block of code to be sent as one data stream to the printer, which in turn interprets the
command codes and generates the desired label output. The programmer is free to use any
programming language available to send the desired data to the printer.

The printer command codes used are based upon “Escape” (1B hexadecimal) sequences.
Typically there are four types of command sequences:

<ESC>{Command}

These commands generally tell the printer to perform a specific action, like “clear the memory.”

<ESC>{Command} {Data}

Commands with this format tell the printer to perform a specific action which is dependent upon
the following data, like “print X labels”, where the value for X is contained in the data.

<ESC>{Command} {Parameter}

These commands set the operational parameters of the printer, like “set the print speed to 3.”

<ESC>{Command} {Parameter} {Data}

Some commands can contain both Parameter and Data elements, such as “print a Code 39
symbol containing the data.”

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-2

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

SELECTING PROTOCOL CODES

Protocol codes are the special control characters that prepare the printer to receive instructions.
For example, the <ESC> character tells the printer that a command code will follow and the
<ENQ> character asks for the printer status.

There are two pre-defined different sets of Protocol Control codes to choose from. Each set is
made up of six special characters. The Standard Protocol Control codes are non-printable
characters, and the Non-Standard Protocol Control codes are printable characters. The Non­Standard set may be useful on host computers using protocol converters or in an application
where non-printable ASCII characters cannot be sent from the host.

This manual uses the Standard Protocol Control codes for all of the
examples. Alternately, the user may define and download a set of custom
Protocol Control Codes (see Appendix D).

PROTOCOL CODES

CONTROL
CHARACTER

STX 02 Hex Data start

ETX 03 Hex Data end

ESC 1B Hex Command Code to follow

ENQ 05 Hex Get printer status, Bi-Com Mode

CAN 18 Hex Cancel print job, Bi-Com mode

Off-Line 40 Hex Take printer Off-Line

STANDARD
DSW2-7 OFF

DESCRIPTION

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-3

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

USING BASIC

It may be useful to test your printer using a BASIC program on a PC or write your actual
production programs in BASIC. Whatever the reason, if working in BASIC, some of the following
hints may be helpful.

Set the WIDTH of the output device to 255 characters to avoid automatically sending <CR> and
<LF> characters after every line. The command string should be continuous and uninterrupted
by <CR> and/or <LF> commands. The examples given in this manual are printed on separate
lines because they will not fit on a single line and do not contain <CR> and/or <LF> characters. If
these characters are needed, they are explicitly noted by the inclusion of <CR> and <LF>
notations.

If using the printer’s RS232C interface, it is necessary to set the computer COM portion so the
CTS and DSR signals are ignored. Send OPEN “COM” statements as follows:

OPEN “COM1:9600,E,8,1,CS,DS”AS #1

This sets the host computer’s COM1 port RS232C communication parameters for 9600 baud,
Even parity, 8 Data bits, 1 Stop bit and directs the port to ignore the CTS and DSR control
signals.

It may be desirable to assign the <ESC> character to a string variable to reduce keystrokes since
this character is often used.

The following two examples use Standard Protocol codes in BASIC.

PRINTING WITH THE PARALLEL PORT

5 REM CL612 Parallel Example Identifies the program as a CL612 parallel port

print label. The “REM” prevents this data from
being sent to the printer and is only displayed on
the screen.

10 E$=CHR$(27) Sets the “E$” string as an <ESC> character

20 WIDTH “LPT1”,255 Sets the width of the output to 255 characters

30 LPRINT E$;"A"; Sends an “<ESC>A” command code to the LPT1

parallel port

40 LPRINT E$;"H400";E$;"V100";E$;"XL1SATO"; Sends the data “SATO” to be to be placed 400

dots horizontally and 100 dots vertically on the
label and printed in the “XL” font.

50 LPRINT E$;"Q1"; Instructs the printer to print one label.

60 LPRINT E$; “Z”; Tells the printer that the last command has been

sent. The printer can now create and print the job.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-4

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

PRINTING WITH THE RS232C PORT

5 REM CL612 Parallel Example Identifies the program as a CL612e RS232C port

print label. The “REM” prevents this data from
being sent to the printer and displays it only on
the screen.

10 E$=CHR$(27) Sets the“E$”string as an <ESC>character.

OPEN “COM1:9600,N,8,1,CS,DS”AS #1 Opens the COM1 port for output and sets the

parameters as 9600 baud, No parity, 8 Data bits,
1 Stop bit and instructs the port to ignore the CTS
and DSR control signals.

30 PRINT #1,CHR$ (2); Sends an <STX> (ASCII Code a decimal “2”) to

the printer instructing it to prepare to receive a
message.

50 PRINT #1,E$;"A"; Sends an “<ESC>A” command code to Print Port

#1 opened by statement 20 above.

60 PRINT#1, E$; "H400"; E$; "V100"; E$;
"XL1SATO"

50 PRINT #1, E$;"Q1"; Instructs the printer to print a quantity of one

60 PRINT #1, E$; “Z”; Informs the printer that the last command has

70 PRINT #1,CHR$ (3); Sends an <ETX> (ASCII Code decimal “3”)

Sends the data “SATO” to be placed 400 dots
horizontally and 100 dots vertically on the label
and printed in the “XL” auto smoothed font.

label.

been sent and printing can occur.

informs the printer of message end.

Identifies the program as a CL612e RS232C port
print label. The “REM” prevents this data from
being sent to the printer and displays it only on
the screen.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-5

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

LABEL

Label Width

Label Length

PRINT POSITION COMMANDS

There are three methods using command codes to properly orient print images on a label. They
are as follows:

MEDIA SIZE COMMAND

The Media Size Command (<ESC>A1) allows specification of the label width and
length so the printer may automatically adjust itself relative to the command entry.
However, the label size specified and the actual label size must match.

Example: <ESC>A1aaaaabbbb

a = Label Length
b = Label Width

Figure 2-1, Media Measurement

BASE REFERENCE POINT COMMAND

The Base Reference Point Command (<ESC>A3) establishes the zero point of
the Horizontal and Vertical axis so the distance may be calculated in dots from
that point to the label’s edge. This command immediately follows the Data Start
Command.

Example: Label Width = total dots - = 406 dots

New Base Ref Point = Max Print Width - Label Width
= (dot quantity) - (406 dots) = 426 dots

Issue Base Reference Point command <ESC>A3 after the data Start command.

<ESC>A<ESC>A3H0426V0001. . . . . .

HORIZONTAL OFFSET COMMAND

Allows print image orientation by combining a part of both methods above by
establishing the media size and then orienting it through base reference point
adjustment.

Example: A Printer with 8-dpmm:

Label Width = 2" x 25.4 mm/in x 8 dpmm = 406 dots
New Base Reference Point = Maximum Print Width - Label Width
= (832 dots) - (406 dots) = 426 dots

Each <ESC>H command would have the value “426” added to it to correctly

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-6

position each field.

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

NOTE: The <ESC>A3 Base Reference Point command can also shift the
reference point in a negative direction (toward the outside edge of the label).

The Command Code subsection contains a sample label output for each command code. These
samples reflect how the printed information would appear on a 4.25 inch wide label.

If you want to test any of the sample label outputs and are using labels less than five inches in
width, it is recommended that the Base Reference Point command be added to the data stream
to print the image onto the label.

The addition of the Base Reference Point command to the data stream will help adjust the print.
See the following two examples or refer to the Base Reference Point command description.

Example: <ESC>A

<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0303<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0200<ESC>B103100*SATO*
<ESC>H0070<ESC>V0310<ESC>L0101<ESC>XUSATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

If using a 2 inch wide label, the entire image may not appear on the label. By adding the following
Base Reference Point command to the second line of the data stream, the base reference point
will be changed, causing the image to shift toward the inside of the printer where it can be printed
on the narrower label.

Example: M8400RVe data stream results in a 2 inch wide label:

<ESC>A
<ESC>A3H0406V0001
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0303<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0200<ESC>B103100*SATO*
<ESC>H0170<ESC>V0310<ESC>L0101<ESC>XUSATO
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

The image is moved horizontally to the right 2 inches (406 dots) so that itcan be printed on a 2
inch wide label. For more information, see the Base Reference Point command description.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-7

Unit 2: Programming Concepts

This page is left blank intentionally

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 2-8

COMMAND QUICK

REFERENCE

• A through Z (all commands)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-1

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

A Start Code. Begins all print jobs

~Aaaaa Cut, Label. Specifies the number of labels to print between each cut. It is

independent of the Quantity command.

aaaa = Number of labels between each cut

~aaaa Cut, Job. Cuts labels at a specified interval in a print job. Quantity of labels

printed is equal to the product of the quantity specified x the value of aaaa.

aaaa = Number of labels between each cut (0001 to 9999)

~B Cut, Last. Cuts any printed labels that remain in the printer.

AOa Auto Online. Allows the automatic online on power up setting to be

enabled or disabled.

a = 0: Powers up in the online mode

1: Powers up in the offline mode

A1aaaabbbb Media Size. Specifies the label size.

aaaa = Label height in dots (0 to Vmax)

bbbb = Label width in dots (0 to Hmax)

& Store Form Overlay. Stores a specified label image in the printer’s volatile

form overlay memory.

AR Normal Print Length. This command resets the printer to the Standard

print length (7 inches).

&Raa Form Overlay, Recall. Recalls a label image previously stored in

Expanded Memory.

aa = Storage number (00 to 99)

&S,aa,bbbb,cccc Form Overlay, Store. Stores a label image in Expanded Memory.

aa = Storage number (00 to 99)

bbbb = Horizontal size of window to be stored (50 to Hmax)

cccc = Vertical size of window to be stored (50 to Vmax)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-2

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

*a,bbb Clear Memory Card. Stores a label image in Expanded Memory.

a = Memory section to be cleared.

G: SATO graphics file (001 to 999)
P: PCX graphics file (001 to 999)
F: Stored formats (001 to 999)
O: TrueType fonts, memory card (001 to 009)
R: BMP graphic file (001 to 999)

bbb = BMP graphic file (001 to 999)

@,nn...n Offline/Pause. Signals the printer to go offline after upon job completion.

nn...n = Optional message to be displayed on the LCD (max 32

characters).

A3H-aaaa-Vbbbb Base Reference Point. Establishes a new base reference point position

for the current label. Units of measurement are dots.

- = Optional character.If included, will shift reference point in
negative direction.

aaaa = Horizontal reference point

bbbb = Vertical reference point

AX Print Area Enlargement. This command sets the printer to the Expanded

print length (14 inches). <ESC>EX0 is the recommended replacement.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-3

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

Babbcccd Bar Codes. Prints a 1:3 ratio barcode.

a = 0: Codabar

1: Code 39
2: Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)
3: UPC-A/EAN-13
4: EAN-8
5: Industrial 2 of 5
6: Matrix 2 of 5
7: reserved
8: reserved
9: reserved
A: MSI
B: reserved
C: Code 93
D: reserved
E: UPC-E
F: Bookland
G: Code 128
H: SSCC

bb = Number of dots (01 to 12) for narrow bar and narrow space

ccc = Bar height in dots (001 to 999)

d = SSCC only

0: No human readable text
1: Human readable at top
2: Human readable at bottom

BC CODE 93 Barcode. Prints a CODE 93 barcode.

a = Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b = Height of barcode (001 to 999 dots)

c = Digit quantity of data (01 to 99)

n=Print data

BDabbcccd Bar Codes. Prints a 2:5 ratio barcode, except for UPC, EAN, Code 93,

Code 128 and SSCC symbols, which are fixed width bar codes. For values
a, bb, ccc and d see instructions for Babbcccd.

For UPC/EAN bar codes, this command puts descender bars and humand
readable text below the symbol.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-4

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

BF Bookland. Prints a Bookland barcode.

a

= Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b

= Height of barcode (001 to 999 dots)

n

= Print data

BG CODE 128. Prints a CODE 128 barcode.

a

= Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b

= Height of barcode (001 to 999 dots)

n

= Print data

BI SSCC. Prints a SSCC barcode.

a

b

c

n

BJaa..abb..b True Type Font, Store. Prepares the Expanded Memory to accept True

Type font data.

aa...a

bb...b

BJDcccccddddee...e True Type Font, Download Bit Mapped Data. Downloads the bit mapped

TrueType font data to the memory area specified.

ccccc

dddd

ee...e

BJFaaaaaaaa Card, Format. Initializes the Memory Area and formats it for use. Should

be preceded by the Memory Area Select command for the memory area to
be initialized.

Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

=

Barcode height (001 to 999 dots)

=

Barcode expository font specification

=

0: Without HRI
1: HRI available in upper part of barcode
2: HRI available in upper part of barcode

Barcode print data (17 digits fixed)

=

= 40 byte font description

= 10 byte date field

= Memory Offset (hexadecimal)

= Data size in bytes (max = 2000)

= Font data to be downloaded

aaaa....a

BJS Print Memory Card Status. Reports the status of the currently active

Memory Card to the host by printing a status label.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-5

8 character alphanumeric password

=

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

BJTaabbccddeefffgg..g True Type Font, Recall. Recalls a previously stored bit mapped TrueType

font for use.

aa

= Font ID (01 to 99)

bb

= Horizontal Expansion (01 to 12)

cc

= Vertical Expansion (01 to 12)

dd

= Reserved, always 00

ee

= Character pitch (01 to 99)

ffff

= Number of characters

gg...g

BKaabbcddeeefffnn...n PDF417. Prints PDF417 2-D symbols.

nn...n = Data to be printed.

BPn...n Postnet. Prints Postnet bar codes.

= Data to be printed using font

aa = Minimum module dimension (03-09 dots). Will not print for

values of 01, 02 or greater than 09.

bb = Minimum module pitch dimension (04-240 dots). Will not

print for values of 01, 02, 03 or greater than 25.

c = Security level (1-8).

dd = Code words per line (01-30). If 00 is specified for dd and

ee, printer will automatically optimize settings.

ee = Rows/symbol (00 or 03). If 00 is specified for dd and ee,

printer will automatically optimize settings.

fff = Number of characters to be encoded (0001-2700)

g = Not specified, standard PDF417

M: Micro PDF417
T: Truncated PDF417

n...n = 5 digit ZIP (Postnet-32 format)

6 digits (Postnet-37 format)
9 digit ZIP+4 (Postnet -52 format)
11 digit ZIP+4+DPC (Postnet-62, Delivery Point format).

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-6

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

BQ QR Code. Prints QR CODE of 2D code.

a = Error correction level

1: 7% high density
2: 15% standard
3: 30% high reliability
4: 25%

b = Concatenation mode

0: Normal Mode
1: Concatenation mode

c = Size of one side of cell (01 to 32)

d = Quantity of partitions by concatenation mode (01 to 16)

e = Sequential number partitioned by concatenation (01 to 16)

f = Concatenation mode parity data (00 to FF)

g = Character mode

1: Number Mode
2: Alphanumeric Mode
3: Binary Mode

h = Quantity of data (0001 to 7366)

n=Print data.

BTabbccddee Bar Codes. Variable Ratio. provides the ability to print a bar code with a

ratio other than those specified through the standard bar code commands
(B, BD, and D).

a = Bar code option:

0: Codabar
1: Code 39
2: Interleaved 2 of 5
5: Industrial 2 of 5
6: Matrix 2 of 5

bb = Narrow space in dots (01-99)

cc = Wide space in dots (01-99)

dd = Narrow bar in dots (01-99)

ee = Wide bar in dots (01-99)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-7

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

BVa,b,c, ddddddddd,eee,
f f f,gg..g

BWaabbb Bar Codes. Expansion. Works together with the BT command to specify

BXaabbccddeeefffghh Data Matrix. Data Format. Specifies the format of the Data Matrix 2-D

Maxicode. Prints 2-D Maxicode symbols per AIM I.S.S. specification.

a = Position of symbol within the set

b = Total number of symbols in the set

c=Mode

dd..d = 9 digit numeric Postal Code

eee = 3 digit numeric Country Code

f f f = 3 digit numeric Service Class

gg..g = Data, terminated by <ESC>

an expansion factor and the bar code height for the particular symbol being
printed.

aa = Expansion factor by which the width of all bars and spaces

is increased (01 to 12)

bbb = Bar height by dot (004 to 999 dots)

symbology.

aa = Format ID (01 to 06, If ECC200 is selected (bb=20) this

field is ignored.

bb = Error correction level (00, 05, 08,10,14, 20 or 200. All other

values processed as 00.

cc = Horizontal cell size (03 to 12 dots/cell)

dd = Vertical cell size (03 to 12 dots per cell)

eee = Cells per line. Use 000 for optimized symbol.

fff = Cell lines. Use 000 to optimize.

g = Mirror image

0: Normal Print
1: Reverse Print

hh = Guide cell thickness (01 to 15) 01 indicates normal type.

C Repeat Label. Prints a duplicate of the last label printed.

CCa Card, Slot for Use. Selects the memory area for all following expanded

memory commands.

a

= Memory Area 1

b

= Memory Area 2

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-8

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

CLa CL/LF Deletion. Deletes the occurrence of CR/LF characters in the data

stream.

a

CSa Print Speed Selection. Specifies a unique print speed in in./sec. through

software for a particular label.

a

Dabbcccn Barcode, Human Readable Information (HRI). Specifies the character

type of human readable information of barcode.

a

b

c

n

dn...n Barcode, Human Readable Information (HRI). Specifies the character

type of human readable information of barcode. May be used in
conjunction with the preceding <ESC>D.

d

0: Do not delete CR/LF

=

1: Delete CR/LF

Speed Range

=

3: JAN/EAN13

=

4: JAN/EAN8
H: UPC-A

Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

=

Barcode height (001 to 999 dots)

=

Barcode print data

=

Character type specification

=

XU
XS
XM
XB
XL
OA
OB
HRI data

n

DCxx...x Data Matrix. Print Data. Prints data using Data Matrix format specified in

BX Data Format command.

xx...x = Data to be printed. Cannot exceed 500 characters.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-9

HRI print data

=

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

$ Font, Vector. Specifies printing of the unique SATO vector font.

a = A: Helvetica Bold (proportional spacing)

B: Helvetica Bold (fixed spacing)

b = Font width (50 to 999 dots)

c = Font height (50 to 999 dots)

d = Font variation (0 to 9) as follows:

0: Standard
1: Standard open (outlined)
2: Gray (mesh) pattern 1
3: Gray (mesh) pattern 2
4: Gray (mesh) pattern 3
5: Standard, shadow 1
6: Standard, shadow 2
7: Standard mirror image
8: Italic
9: Italic open (outlined)

$= Outline Font Print. Specifies the print of outline font.

n=Print data

Eaaa Line Feed. Provides the ability to print multiple lines of the same character

size without specifying a new print position for each line.

aaa = Number of dots (1 to 999) between the bottom of the

characters on one line to the top of the characters on the
next line.

EP Print End Position. Specifies the label stop position in the sensor valid

mode.

EU EAN/UCC Composite Symbol. Specifies the composite symbol of EAN/

UCC.

EX0 Expanded Print Length. Expands the print length to 9999 dots.

Faaaabcccc ddee Sequential Numbering. Allows the printing of sequencing fields (text, bar

codes) where all incrementing is done within the printer.

aaaa = Number of times to repeat the same data (0001 to 9999).

b = Plus or minus symbol (+ for increments; - for decrements).

cccc = Value of step for sequence (001 to 9999).

dd = Quantity of digits for sequential numbering (01 to 99).

ee = Quantity of digits free for sequential numbering (01 to 99).

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-10

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

FC Print, Circles. Specifies the printing of circles.

a = Radius (5 to 999 dots)

b = Line width (1 to 999 dots)

c = Sectional number (0 to 8 dots)

d = Pattern (0to 3)

0: Solid black line
1: Gray 1
2: Gray 2
3: Gray 3

FM Memory Cartridge Format. Formats the memory cartridge. Up to 8 bytes

of alphanumeric and symbol (omissible)

FP Memory Cartridge Printing. Printing the memory cartridge. It will be

printed by width 100mm and pitch 100mm.

FT Print, Triangles.

a = Side length (10 to 2000 dots)

b = Line width (01 to 1000 dots)

c = Base length (10 to 2000 dots)

d = Pattern (0 to 3)

0: Solid black line
1: Gray 1
2: Gray 2
3: Gray 3

FWaabcccc Line. Prints a line. Units of measurement are dots.

aa = Width of line

b = V: Vertical line

H: Horizontal line

cccc = Length of line

FWaabbVcccHdddd Box. Prints a box. For values aa, bbbb, cc, and dddd, see instructions for

horizontal and vertical lines. Units of measurement are dots.

aa = Width of horizontal side

bb = Width of vertical side

cccc = Length of vertical side

dddd = Length of horizontal side

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-11

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

FXaaabcccdddeee Data Matrix. Sequential Numbering. Prints sequential numbered Data

Matrix 2-D symbols.

aaa = Number of duplicate labels (001 to 999)

b = Increment or decrement

+: Increment

-: Decrement

ccc = Increment/decrement steps (001 to 999)

ddd = Sequential numbering start position (001 to 999) from left

side.

eee = Incremented data length (001 to 999). Measured from start

position.

Gabbbccc(data) Custom Graphics. Allows the creation and printing of graphic images

using a dot-addressable matrix.

a = Specifies format of data stream to follow

B: Binary
H: Hexadecimal

bbb = Number of horizontal 8 x 8 blocks

ccc = Number of vertical 8 x 8 blocks

data = Data to describe the graphic image

GCaaa BMP File, Recall. Recalls BMP graphic files stored in Expanded Memory.

GIabbbcccdddee...e Graphic, Store. Stores a graphic image in the memory card to be called

later for printing on a label.

a = Specifies format of data stream to follow

B: Binary
H: Hexadecimal

bbb = Number of horizontal 8 x 8 blocks

ccc = Number of vertical 8 x 8 blocks

ddd = Graphics storage number (001 to 999)

ee...e = Data to describe the graphic image

GMaaaaa BMP File. Downloads BMP file to the internal graphics image memory.

aaaaa = Quantity of bytes to download (max DOS file size is 32K).

GPaaaaa PCX File. Downloads PCX file to the internal graphics image memory.

aaaaa = Quantity of bytes to download (max DOS file size is 32K).

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-12

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

GRccc Graphic, Recall. Recalls for printing the graphic image stored by the GI

command.

ccc = Storage number (001 to 999)

GTaaa,bbbbb, nn. . . n BMP File, Store. Stores BMP files in Expanded Memory.

aaa = Storage area number (001 to 999)

bbbbb = Size of BMP file in bytes

nn....n = Data

Haaaa Horizontal Position. Specifies a field’s horizontal location across the width

of the label from the current base reference point. The units of
measurement are dots.

IDaa Job ID Store. Stores the Job ID number.

aa = Job ID number assigned (01 to 99)

J Journal Print. Provides the ability to print text line by line. Fixed spacing

between lines and characters.

Kab90cc Custom Designed Characters, Recall. Recalls for printing a custom

character stored by the Tabcc(data) command.

a = 1: 16 x 16 matrix

2: 24 x 24 matrix

b = Indicates the format that data stream was stored

B: Binary
H: Hexadecimal

cc = Memory location where the character was stored. Valid

locations are 21 to 52 or “!” to “R” in hex values.

Laabb Character, Expansion. Expands characters in both directions.

aa = Multiple to expand horizontally (01 to 12)

bb = Multiple to expand vertically (01 to 12)

LAa Language. Specifies the display language for the LCD.

a = 0: English

1: French
2: German
3: Spanish
4: Italian
5: Portugese
6: Extensible language (Japanese, etc)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-13

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

LDa,b,c,d,e,f,g,i,jj User Download. Downloads a user defined set of Alternate Protocol

Command Codes. See Appendix E for details on the proper usage of this
command.

LFa Online Feed. To enable or disable online label feed.

a = 0: Enables label feed when online

1: Disables label feed when online

LHa Zero Slash. Allows printing zeroes with or without a slash.

a = 0: Prints zeroes without a slash

1: Prints zeroes with a slash

M Font type. Specifies the 13W x 20H dot matrix font (includes descenders).

NC Cutting Operation. Specifies the movement of cutting.

OA Font type. Specifies the OCR-A font.

OB Font type. Specifies the OCR-B font dot matrix.

OL Online. Changes the printer status from offline to online.

Paa Character Pitch. Designates the number of dots between characters.

aa = Number of dots between characters (01 to 99)

(aaaa,bbbb Reverse Image. Reverse image from black to white and vice versa. The

units of measure are dots.

aaaa = Horizontal length in dots of area to be reversed.

bbbb = Vertical height in dots of area to be reversed.

PCaa,bbPCF,a,........z Flash ROM Setup. Sets the default printer configuration in Flash ROM.

#Ea Print Darkness. Specifies a new print darkness setting.

%a Rotate, Fixed Base Reference Point.

a = 0: Sets print to normal direction.

1: Sets print to 90 degrees counter-clockwise.
2: Sets print to 180 degrees rotated (upside down)
3: Sets print to 270 degrees counter-clockwise (90x CW).

PG EEPROM Setup. Sets the default printer configuration in EEPROM.

PIaaa,bbbbb,cc...c PCX File, Store. Stores a PCX graphic file.

aaa = Storage number (001 to 999)

bbbbb = Number of bytes in the file to be stored.

cc...c =

PR Fixed Font Spacing. Returns the printer to fixed character spacing mode.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-14

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

PS Proportional Font Spacing. Places the printer in the proportional

character spacing mode. Will not work with U Font.

PYaaa PCX File, Recall. Recalls a PCX graphics file.

aaa = The storage number assigned to the file (001 to 999)

Qaaaaaa Print Quantity. Specifies the total number of labels to print.

aaaaaa = Total quantity of labels to print for the job (000001-999999)

RDabb,ccc,ddd,nn...n Font Type. Specifies the internal AGFA raster fonts.

a = F: Specifies Futura font

P: Specifies CG Palcio font
S: CG Century Schoolbook font
G: CG Triumvirate Condenced font
V: CG Univers font
t: CG Times font

bb = 0: No character set

1: ISO 8859/1 Latin1
2: ISO 8859/2 Latin2
3: ISO 8859/9 Latin5
4: CP-737 DOSGreek
5: CP-885 DOS Cirillic
6: CP-864 DOSArabic
8: PC-850 Multilingal

ccc = Horizontal Size (16 to 999 dots or P08 to P72 point size)

ddd = Vertical Size (16 to 999 dots or P08 to P72 point size)

nn..n = Data to be printed

RF Recall and Print of Font & Logo. Calls and prints font and logo

downloaded with Label Gallery’s “GalleryMemMaster”.

a = Font ID number (01 to 99)

b = Print digit (1 to 9999)

n=Print data

RMaaaa,bbbb Mirror Image. Prints mirror image of data. Must be preceded by an

<ESC>A1 Media Size command.

S Font type. Specifies the 8W x 15H dot matrix font (includes descenders).

/ Form Overlay, Recall. Recalls the label image from the printer’s form

overlay memory for printing.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-15

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

/D Field, Recall. To recall a field previously stored in in the memory card.

bb = Quantity of fields to be recalled (01 to 99).

cc...c = Data to be placed in field.

/N Field, Store. To store a field in the memory card.

bb = Field number (01 to 99).

cc = Quantity of characters in the field.

Tabcc(data) Store Custom Designed Characters. To create and store custom

characters or images in the printer’s volatile memory. See Kab90cc to
recall the character for printing.

a = 1: 16 x 16 matrix

2: 24 x 24 matrix

b = Specifies data stream format to follow

B: Binary
H: Hexadecimal

cc = Memory location to store the character. Valid locations are

21 to 52 or “!” to “R” in hex values.

(data) = Data to describe the character.

U Font type. Specifies a 5W x 9L dot matrix font (includes descenders).

Vbbbb Vertical Position. Specifies a field’s vertical location down the length of the

label from the current base reference point. Units of measurement are
dots.

WA (elements) Calendar Print. Prints the date and/or time field (up to 16 characters) from

the printer’s internal clock. Use slash to separate date elements and colon
to separate time elements. The calendar feature is a purchase option and
will only be applicable to those printers so ordered.

Elements = YY: 2 digit Year (00 to 99)

YYYY: 4 digit Year (1981 to 2080)
MM: Month (01 to 12)
DD: Day (01 to 31)
HH: 12 Hour (00 to 11)
hh: 24 Hour Clock (00 to 23)
mm: Minutes (00 to 59)
ss: Seconds (00 to 59)
TT: AM or PM
JJJ: Julian Date (000 to 366)
WW: Week (00 to 53)
ww: Week (01 to 54)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-16

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

WB Font Type. Specifies the 18W x 30L dot matrix font (includes descenders).

a = 0: Disables auto-smoothing of font

1: Enables auto-smoothing if expansion is greater than 3

WDHaaaaVbbbbXccccYd
ddd

WKnn...n Job Name. Stores the job name.

WLa Font type. Specifies the 28W x 52L dot matrix font (including decenders).

WPabbb Calendar Increment. To add a value to the printer’s current date and/or

Copy Image Area (Partial Copy). To copy an image to another location of
the label.

aaaa = Horizontal position of the top left corner of image area

bbbb = Vertical position of the top left corner of image area

cccc = Horizontal length of image area

dddd = Vertical length of image area

nn..n = Job name, up to 16 ASCII characters

a = 0: Disables auto-smoothing of font

1: Enables auto-smoothing if expansion is greater than 3

time. Does not change the printerís internal time setting. The calendar
feature is a purchase option and will only be applicable to those printers so
ordered.

a=Y: Years

M: Months
D: Days
h: Hours

bbb = Numeric data, Week (00-99), Years (1-9), Months (01-99),

Days (001-999), Hours (001-999).

WTaabbccddee Calendar Set. To set the time and date of the printer’s internal clock.

aa = Year (00-99)

bb = Month (01-12)

cc = Day (01-31)

dd = Hour (00-23)

ee = Minute (00-59)

XBa Font Type. Specifies 48W x 48L dot matrix font (includes descenders).

a = 0: Disables auto-smoothing of font

1: Enables auto-smoothing if expansion is greater than 3.

n=Print data

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-17

Unit 3: Command Quick Reference

COMMAND QUICK REFERENCE

INSTRUCTION DESCRIPTION

XL Font Type. Specifies the 48W x 48H dot matrix font (includes descenders).

a = Smoothing specification

0: Smoothing disabled
1: Smoothing enabled

n=Print data

XM Font type. Specifies the 24W x 24H dot matrix font (includes descenders).

XS Font type. Specifies the 17W x 17H dot matrix font (includes descenders).

XU Font type. Specifies the 5W x 9L dot matrix font (includes descenders).

YR,aaa/D,bb,cc...c Recall Format/Field. To recall a field from a format previously stored in the

memory card.

aaa = Number of format to be recalled (001 to 999)

bb = Number of field to be recalled (01-99)

cc...c = Data to be placed in field.

YS,aaa/Nbb,cc Store Format/Field. To store a field in a format in the memory card.

aaa = Format number (001 -999)

bb = Field number (01-99)

cc = Number of characters in the field

Z Stop Code. Ends all print jobs.

0 (zero) Replace Data (Partial Edit). Provides the ability to replace a specified

area of the previous label with new data.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 3-18

STANDARD

COMMAND CODES

• Control Commands

• Modification Commands

• Print Position Commands

• Font Commands

• Barcode Commands

• 2D Code Commands

• System Commands

• Graphic Commands

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-1

CONTROL COMMANDS

START/STOP LABEL

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

For all print jobs, the Start command must precede the data and the Stop command
must follow. The print job will not run properly if these are not in place.

Start Command: <ESC>A

Stop Command: <ESC>Z

<ESC>A must precede data <ESC>Z must follow data.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0100<ESC>WB1SATO
<ESC>H0130<ESC>V0200<ESC>B103150*SATO*
<ESC>H0170<ESC>V0360<ESC>L0202<ESC>S*SATO*
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

There is no output for these commands they are not accompanied by other label
printing commands. However, these commands must precede and follow each print
job sent to the printer.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-2

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

PRINT QUANTITY

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To specify the total quantity of labels to print for a given print job.

<ESC>Qaaaaaa

aaaaaa = Total number of labels to print (1 to 999999)

Place just preceding <ESC>Z, unless <ESC>~ exists, then preceding that. This
command must be present in every print job.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>WB1SATO
<ESC>Q3
<ESC>Z

Three labels containing the data “SATO” will be printed.

To cancel a print job, turn off the printer or send the <ESC>CAN code if using the Bi­Com mode. Multi-Buffer jobs can be cleared with the Clear Print Job (<ESC>*) and
Memory command.

When used with the Sequential Numbering (<ESC>F) command, the Print Quantity
value should be equal to the total number of labels to be printed.

If a Print Quantity is not specified, the printer will not print a label.

For this command, leading zeroes do not have to be entered. The command “Q1” is
equivalent to “Q000001”.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-3

JOB ID, STORE

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To add an identification number to a job. The status of the job can then be determined
using the ENQ command in the Bi-Com status mode.

<ESC>IDaa

aa = Job ID assigned (01 to 99)

Place immediately following the <ESC>A in the job data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>ID02
. . . Job . . .
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

Works only in Bi-Communications modes. The Job ID number must be stored before
Bi-Com status mode can be used.

If more than one ID number is sent in a single job, i.e.

<ESC>A

<ESC>ID01

. . . . . . . . . .

<ESC>ID02

. . . . . . . . .

The last number transmitted will be used.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-4

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

JOB NAME

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

This command is to identify a particular job using a descriptive name.

<ESC>WKnnn. . . n

nn..n = Job Name assigned, up to 16 ASCII characters

Place immediately following the <ESC>A in the job data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>WKSATO
. . . Job . . .
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. The information is returned to the

host upon receipt of a Bi-Com status request.

Works only in Bi-Com 4 mode. The Job Name must be stored before Bi-Com status

mode can be used.

If more than one Job Name is sent in a single job, i.e.

<ESC>A

<ESC>WKSATO

. . . . . . . . . .

<ESC>WKSATO AMERICA

. . . . . . . . .

The last name transmitted will be used.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-5

MODIFICATION COMMANDS

CHARACTER, EXPANSION

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To independently expand characters in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The
command allows enlargement of the base size of each font (except the vector font) up
to 12 times in either direction.

<ESC>Laabb

aa = Multiple to expand horizontally (01 to 12)

bb = Multiple to expand vertically (01 to 12)

Place preceding the data to be expanded.

<ESC>A<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ESC>L0402<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0300<ESC>L0204<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-1)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-6

Expanded characters are typically used with this command for added emphasis or for
long distance readability. This command will expand the following fonts: Fonts U, S,
M, XU, XS, XM, OA & OB and fonts WB, WL, XB and XL.

This command will also affect the following commands: Character Pitch Characters,
Custom-Designed

The Character Expansion value is in effect for the current print job until a new
expansion command is specified.

The Line and Box command, if used within the data stream, may return all
subsequent text to the default expansion of 1 x 1. Therefore, either send the
Character Expansion command before all printed data, or send Line and Box
commands last, preceding the Quantity (<ESC>Q) command.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 1 for additional information.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

CHARACTER, PITCH

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To designate the amount of spacing (in dots) between characters. This command
provides a means of altering character spacing for label constraints or to enhance
readability.

<ESC>Paa

aa = Number of dots between characters (00 to 99)

Place preceding the text to be printed.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>L0202<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0125<ESC>L0202<ESC>P20<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0225<ESC>L0202<ESC>P40<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-2)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-7

This command is affected by the <ESC>L Character Expansion command. The
character pitch is actually the product of the current horizontal expansion multiple and
the designated pitch value.

Example:

<ESC>L0304
<ESC>P03

Pitch = (03) x (03) = 9 dots

To avoid confusion, you may want to include the <ESC>L Character Expansion
command and this command together in your program.

This command affects fonts U, S, M, XU, XS, XM, OA & OB, WB, WL, XB and XL,
and the vector font.

Character Pitch will always revert to the default value unless it is specified before
each new font command in the data stream.

This command also affects Codabar, Code 39 and Industrial 2 of 5 bar codes.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 2 for additional information.

CHARACTER, FIXED SPACING

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To reset proportional spacing and place the printer back to fixed spacing.

<ESC>PR

Place preceding the fixed space data.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050<ESC>PS
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMPROPORTIONAL SPACING
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0180<ESC>PR
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMFIXED SPACING
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-3)

This command only works with proportionally spaced fonts: XU, XM, XS, XL and XB.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 3 for additional information.

CHARACTER, PROPORTIONAL SPACING

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To specify the printing of proportional or fixed spacing for proportionally spaced fonts.

<ESC>PS Set to proportional spacing Reset to fixed spacing.

Place preceding the data to be proportionally spaced.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0050<ESC>PS
<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMPROPORTIONAL SPACING
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-4)

Once this command is sent in the data stream, it is in effect until the end of the print
job unless a reset command is sent.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 4 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-8

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

ROTATE, FIXED BASE REFERENCE POINT

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To rotate the print direction in 90° increments without changing the location of the
base reference point. The diagram below illustrates the use of the Rotate (<ESC>%)
command. Note that the entire print area is shown, but your label will probably not be
as large as the entire area.

<ESC>%a

a = 0: Sets print to normal direction

1: Sets print to 90°CCW
2: Sets print to 180° rotated (upside down)
3: Sets print to 270° CCW

Place preceding any printed data to be rotated.

<ESC>A
<ESC>%0<ESC>L0202<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0100<ESC>MNORMAL DIRECTION
<ESC>%1<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0300<ESC>MONE
<ESC>%2<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0400<ESC>MTWO
<ESC>%3<ESC H0200<ESC>V0500<ESC>MTHREE
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-5a)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-9

The specified values are valid until another Rotate (<ESC>%) command is received.
Receipt of a Stop Print (<ESC>Z) command will reset the setting to the default value.

(4-5b)

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 5 for additional information.

SEQUENTIAL NUMBERING

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To print sequential fields (text, bar codes) where all incrementing is done within the
printer. Up to eight different sequential fields can be specified per label. Sequencing is
effective for up to 99-digit numeric data within each field.

<ESC>Faaaabcccc,dd,ee,g

aaaa = Number of times to repeat the same data (0001 to 9999)

b = Plus or minus symbol (+ for increments; - for decrements)

cccc = Value of step for sequence (0001 to 9999)

dd = Sequential numbering digit quantity (01 to 99). The first character

starts after those exempted in ee. If digits are omitted, 8 is default

ee = Number of digits free from sequential numbering (0 to 99) starting

with the right most position. If digits are left out, the default is 0.

g = Count base 1 Decimal Count 2 Hexadecimal Base

Place preceding the starting value to be incremented or decremented.

<ESC>A<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>MSERIAL NUMBER:
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200
<ESC>F001+005
<ESC>L0202<ESC>M1000<ESC>Q2<ESC>Z1

(4-6a)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-10

The value specified for Print Quantity should be equal to the number of different
sequential values desired multiplied by the number of repeats specified. Example: To
print 2 sets each of numbers 1001-1025 on separate labels, we need 50 total labels.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>F002+001<ESC>XM1001<ESC>Q50<ESC>Z

(4-6b)

It is necessary to specify the print position for each sequential field on a label. Up to
eight different sequential fields can be specified per label. Alpha characters are ignore

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 6 for additional information.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

PRINT, CIRCLES

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies the printing of circles.

<ESC>FC

a = Radius (5 to 999 dots)

b = Line width (1 to 999 dots)

c = Section number (0 to 8)

d = Pattern (0 to 3)

0: Solid black line
1: Gray 1
2: Gray 2
3: Gray 3

Place anywhere within the data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0200<ESC>FC,100, 8, 0, 0
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

This command sets the base reference point to the center of a circle and can be
registered to the format.

(4-7a)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-11

When a sectional number value outside of the range is specified, it will be processed
as “0” and will not be a command error.

When the pattern designation value is outside the range is specified, it will be
processed as “0” and also will not be a command error.

When the print start position is outside of the printable area, printing will not be
performed due to command error.

(4-7b)

PRINT, TRIANGLES

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies the printing of triangles.

<ESC>FT

a = Side length (10 to 2000 dots)

b = Line width (1 to 1000 dots)

c = Base length (10 to 2000)

d = Pattern (0 to 3)

0: Solid black line
1: Gray 1
2: Gray 2
3: Gray 3

Place anywhere within the data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0100<ESC>FT,100,8,100,0
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

This command sets the base reference point to the apex of the triangle and can be
registered to the format.

(4-8)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-12

This command is only enabled while online.

The value for the base length can be omitted and its value will be equal to the length
of sides.

The key buffer size is 1KB. One key entry information requires 2 bytes and up to 512
information entries are available.

The key buffer acts as ring buffer. When the key entry exceeds the maximum entry
capacity, the oldest entry information will be overwritten.

When the exclusive use of key is initiated, the key buffer is initialized and vice-versa
when it is terminated. As a result, key entry information is obtainable following this
operation.

Label printing or label error detection will be performed as usual even when the
exclusive use of key is activated. Error occurrence while the exclusive use of key is
activated will release the exclusive state. After recovering from the error and going
back online, the exclusive use of key will be active again.

Exclusive use of key is initially off when powering on the printer.

Key Entry <IZ> is invalid when the exclusive use of key is activated.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

PRINT, LINES & BOXES

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

To print horizontal lines, vertical lines, and boxes as images on the label.

Line: <ESC>FWaabcccc

aa = Width of horizontal line in dots (01 to 99)

b = Line orientation H Horizontal line V Vertical Line

cccc = Length of line in dots

Box: <ESC>FWaabbVccccHdddd

aa = Width of horizontal side in dots (01 to 99)

bb = Width of vertical side in dots (01 to 99)

cccc = Length of vertical side in dots

dddd = Length of horizontal side in dots

Place following the necessary positioning commands.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW20H0200
<ESC>H0320<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW20V0200
<ESC>H0350<ESC>V0100<ESC>FW1010H0200V0200
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

OUTPUT

NOTES

(4-9)

It is recommended that all lines and boxes be specified in the normal print direction.
Use the <ESC>EX0 Expanded Print Length command for maximum label length.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-13

REVERSE IMAGE

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To reverse an image area from black to white and vice versa. Use the Print Position
commands (<ESC>H and <ESC>V) to locate the top left corner of the reverse image
area.

<ESC>(aaaa,bbbb

a = Horizontal length in dots of reverse image area

b = Vertical height in dots of reverse image area.

Must be preceded by all other data and be placed just before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0120<ESC>L0202<ESC>WB1REVERSE
<ESC>H0250<ESC>V0300<ES C>L0202<ESC>WB1HALF
<ESC>H0040<ESC>V0110<ESC>(370,100
<ESC>H0240<ESC>V0290<ESC>(220,47
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-10)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-14

A reverse image area is affected by the rotate commands. Therefore, always assume
the printer is in the normal print orientation when designing and sending the Reverse
Image command.

If using reverse images with the form overlay, place this command before the Form
Overlay command in the data stream.

If the height and width to be reversed contains anything other than alphanumeric
data, the area is not printed.

If the values specified exceed the maximum ranges, the reverse image is not created.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FORM OVERLAY, STORE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To store a label image in the volatile form overlay memory. Only one label image may
be stored in this memory area at a time.

<ESC>&

Must be preceded by all other data and placed just before Stop (<ESC>Z) command.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0125
<ESC>STHIS IS THE STORED IMAGE WITH A BARCODE
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0165<ESC>B103100*12345*
<ESC>
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. It stores the label image in the
overlay buffer.

Remember that this storage is volatile. Therefore, if the printer loses power, the
overlay must be sent again.

The overlay is recalled using the Form Overlay Recall (<ESC>/) command.

Form overlays do not have to be recompiled each time they are called to be printed
and therefore may result in much faster print output.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 7 for additional information.

&

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-15

FORM OVERLAY, RECALL

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To recall the label image from the form overlay memory for printing. Additional or
different data can be printed with the recalled image.

<ESC>/

Must be preceded by all other data and placed just before Print Quantity (<ESC>Q)
command.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H01000<ESC>V0125
<ESC>STHIS IS THE STORED IMAGE WITH A BARCODE
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0165<ESC>B103100*12345*
<ESC>&<ESC>Z
<ESC>A<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050
<ESC>STHIS IS RECALLING AND ADDING TO THE STORED IMAGE<ESC>/
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-11)

NOTES

The overlay is stored using the Form Overlay Store (<ESC>&) command.

If this command is used with the Expanded Print Length (<ESC>EX0) command the
Form Overlay length cannot exceed 9999 dots.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 8 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-16

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

REPLACE DATA (PARTIAL EDIT)

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To replace a specified area of the previous label with new data. This command will
cause the previous label to print along with any changes specified within the current
data stream.

<ESC>0 (<ESC>zero)

Must follow <ESC>A and precede all other print data

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0020<ESC>WB0Company Name
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0085<ESC>WB1SATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0150<ESC>WL0SATO
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0215<ESC>WL1SATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

<ESC>A
<ESC>0<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0020<ESC>WB0SATO
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-12)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-17

Specify the exact same parameters for the image to be replaced as were specified in
the original data stream; including rotation, expansion, pitch, etc. This will ensure the
new data will exactly replace the old image. If the replacement data contains fewer
characters than the old data, then the characters not replaced will still be printed.

This command will not function if the power has been cycled off and back on since the
last label was printed.

Proportional Pitch text cannot be used with this command.

COPY IMAGE AREA (PARTIAL COPY)

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To copy an image from one location to another on the same label. This may be useful
for duplicating individual fields or entire sections of the label with only one command.

<ESC>WDHaaaaVbbbbXccccYdddd

aaaa = Horizontal position of the top left corner of the area

bbbb = Vertical position of the top left corner of the area

cccc = Horizontal length of the image area to be copied

dddd = Vertical length of the image area to be copied

Place anywhere within the data stream after specifying the location of the duplicate
image.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>E010<ESC>XM
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
SATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATOSATO
<ESC>H0180<ESC>V0250<ESC>WDH0130V0050X0400Y0200
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-13)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-18

Use the Print Position (V and H) commands to locate the new area for the duplicate
image.

Position of the new target area must not be inside the original image.

If you use the Rotate command; the V, H, X, and Y axis will be reversed.

If the reference area of the target image exceeds the print area, it will not be printed.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

JOURNAL PRINTING

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To print text in a line by line format on a label. By specifying this command, you
automatically select Font XS with a Character Expansion of 2x2. You also establish a
base reference point of H2,V2. The character pitch is 2 dots and the line gap is 16
dots. Simply issue an ASCII <CR> at the end of each text line.

<ESC>J

Place immediately following <ESC>A.

<ESC>A
<ESC>J WITH THE JOURNAL FEATURE YOU CAN PRINT TEXT WITHOUT
USING ANY FONT COMMANDS
OR POSITION COMMANDS
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-14)

NOTES

Journal mode assumes a maximum label width. Otherwise, you may print where
there is no label and damage your print head.

It is effective only for the current print job.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-19

RECALL AND PRINT OF FONT & LOGO

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Calls and prints fonts and logos downloaded with the exclusive tool.

<ESC>RF

a = Font ID number (01 to 99)

b = Print digit (1 to 9999)

n=Print data

Place after <ESC>H but before <ESC>Q1.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>RF020002,826B
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-15)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-20

Specify the value of Unicode for print data. When calling and printing a logo, specify
Print digit: 0002, Print data: <6B82>
code of L.

16. Note that <826B>16 is the value of Shift JIS

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

MIRROR IMAGE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To allow mirror image printing of data, such as on transparent labels to be applied to
a glass or other transparent surface.

<ESC>RM

Place after the label data.

Label #1
<ESC>A
<ESC>A1<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050<ESC>XL0ABCDEF
<ESC>RM
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-16)

The <ESC>A1 Media defines the area to be mirrored.

This command can be used with the Rotate Fixed Base Reference Point (<ESC>%)
command. Note that the reference point rotation is dependent upon the location of
the <ESC>% command in the data stream.

This command should not be specified more than once in any single job.

This command cannot be used with commands requiring re-editing of the print area,
such as Sequential Numbering, Real time clock or Copy Image Area.

Any data outside the area defined by the Media Size (<ESC>A1) command is not
mirrored the command is treated as a command error. Any print job containing the
<ESC>RM command and without any print data will be treated as a command error.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-21

PRINT POSITION COMMANDS

MEDIA SIZE

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

INPUT

OUTPUT

NOTES

To set the size of the media.

<ESC>A1aaaabbbb

aaaa = Label Height in dots (0 to Hmax)

bbbb = Label Width in dots (0 to Vmax)

Place in a separate data stream to the printer.

<ESC>A
<ESC>A108321424
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. It is used to automatically adjust the
offset values for the size of label being used. The sample command stream specifies
a label 832 dots wide by 1424 dots long.

The Base Reference point is always the on the right (looking at the front of the printer)
side of the print head. This command adjusts the Base Reference Point to correspond
with the right edge of the loaded media.

If the label size is changed, then this command must be re-specified to center the print
image on the label.

All eight variables “aaaa” and “bbbb” must be included in this command.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-22

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

PRINT POSITION

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

The Horizontal and Vertical commands specify the top left corner of a field or label,
using the current base reference point as an origin. They also establish a reference
point for subsequent fields until the next horizontal and/or vertical print position
command is issued.

Horizontal Position: <ESC>Haaaa

Vertical Position: <ESC>Vbbbb

aaaa = Number of horizontal dots from base reference point (1 to Hmax)

bbbb = Number of vertical dots from base reference point (1 to Vmax)

Place preceding any print field description of lines/boxes, fonts, bar codes, or
graphics.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0050<ESC>L0303<ESC>MSATO
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0150<ESC>MSATO
<ESC>Q2
<ESC>Z

(4-17)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-23

To expand the print length to the maximum limit, the Expanded Print Length
(<ESC>EX0) command must be used. If any part of an image is placed past
maximum allowable dots across the label, that part of the image will be lost.

Leading zeroes do not have to be entered - command “V1” is equivalent to “V0001”.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Tables 9 & 10 for additional information.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FONT COMMANDS

FONTS: S, M, U, OA, OB, XB, XL, XS, XM, XU

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT (4-18)

To print text images on a label. These are eight of the built-in fonts available on the

printer. All matrices include descenders.

Font XU: <ESC>XU Font U: <ESC>U

Font XS: <ESC>XS Font S: <ESC>S

Font XM: <ESC>XM Font M: <ESC>M

Font OA: <ESC>OA Font OB: <ESC>OB

Place preceding the data to be printed.

<ESC>A
<ESC>PS
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0202<ESC>XUSATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0175<ESC>L0202<ESC>XSSATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0250<ESC>L0202<ESC>XMSATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0325<ESC>L0101<ESC>OASATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0400<ESC>L0101<ESC>OBSATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0100<ESC>L0202<ESC>USATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0175<ESC>L0202<ESC>SSATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0250<ESC>L0202<ESC>MSATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

NOTES Characters may be enlarged through the use of the Character Expansion command

and character spacing may be altered through the use of the Character Pitch
command. The default is 2 dots between characters. Custom characters or fonts may
also be created - refer to Custom-Designed Characters (<ESC>T) command.

It is recommended to use a spacing of 5 dots for OCR-A and 1 dot for OCR-B. The
matrices for the OA and OB fonts are scaled so that they will remain a constant size
according to the OCR-A and OCR-B specifications when printed on different
resolution printers.

The proportionally spaced fonts XU, XS, XM, XL and XA can be printed with fixed
spacing using the Proportional Space (<ESC>PS) command.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Tables 11 through 19 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-24

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

SMOOTHING FONTS: WB, WL, XB, XL

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To print text images on a label. These are the four auto-smoothing fonts available on
the printer.

Font WB: <ESC>WBa Font XB: <ESC>XBa

Font WL: <ESC>WLa Font XL: <ESC>XLa

a = 0: Disables auto-smoothing of font

1: Enables auto-smoothing of font (see notes below)

Place preceding the data to be printed.

<ESC>A
<ESC>PS
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0100<ESC>WB0SATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0185<ESC>WB1SATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0270<ESC>WL0SATO
<ESC>H0001<ESC>V0355<ESC>WL1SATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0100<ESC>XB0SATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0185<ESC>XB1SATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0270<ESC>XL0SATO
<ESC>H0300<ESC>V0355<ESC>XL1SATO
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-19)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-25

Auto-smoothing (when enabled) is only effective if the character expansion rate is at
least (3) times in each direction.

Characters may be enlarged through the use of the Character Expansion (<ESC>L)
command.

Character spacing may be altered through the use of the Character Pitch (<ESC>A)
command.

A font must be defined for each field to be printed. There is no default font.

FONT, RASTER

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

To print point size characters created using font definitions.

<ESC>A<ESC>RDabb,ccc,ddd,eee,nn. . .n

a = A: CG Times

B: CG Triumvirate
C: MKaiS0-Medium-U (Simplified)
c: MHeiS-Bold-U (Traditional)
K: HYRGoThic-Medium
T: AngsanaUPC
F: Futura2Book
P: CG Palacio
S: CG Century Schoolbook
G: CG Triumvirate Condensed
V: Universe Medium
t: CG Times

bb = 0: No character set

1: ISO 8859/1 Latin1
2: ISO 8859/2 Latin2
3: ISO 8859/9 Latin5
4: CP-737 DOSGreek
5: CP-885 DOSCyrillic
6: CP-864 DOSArabic
7: CP-874 Thai
8: CP850 Multilingal

EXAMPLE

ccc = 0: No character set

ddd = Horizontal size (4 - 999 dots or P02 - P99)

eee = Vertical size (4 - 999 dots or P02 - P99)

nn..n = Data to be printed.

Place within the normal command stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100
<ESC>RDA00,P28,P28,CG Times
<ESC>V0200<ESC>H0100
<ESC>RDB00,075,075,CG Triumvirate
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-26

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FONT, RASTER

OUTPUT

NOTES

(4-20)

The “cccc” Horizontal Size and “dddd” Horizontal Size parameters can be entered
either in dots or points, but both parameters must use the same value types. If point
size is used, the point size is preceded by a “P”.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Tables 20 & 21 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-27

FONT, VECTOR

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

To specify printing of the unique SATO vector font. The vector font allows large
characters to be printed with smooth, round edges. Each character is made of a
number of vectors (or lines), and will require slightly more printer compiling time.

Specify Vector Font: <ESC>$a,b,c,d

Data for Vector Font: <ESC>$=(data)

a = A: Helvetica Bold (proportional spacing)

B: Helvetica Bold (fixed spacing)

b = Font width (50-999)

c = Font height (50-999 dots)

d = Font variation (0-9) as follows:

0: Standard
1: Standard open (outlined)
2: Gray (mesh) pattern 1
3: Gray (mesh) pattern 2
4: Gray (mesh) pattern 3
5: Standard open, shadow 1
6: Standard open, shadow 2
7: Standard mirror image
8: Italic 9 Italic open, shadow

Place immediately preceding the data to be printed.

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>$A,100,100,0
<ESC>$=SATO AMERICA
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ESC>$=VECTOR FONT
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0350<ESC>$A,200,300,8<ESC>$=SATO
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

(4-21)

The Pitch command can be used with Vector fonts. If the font size designation is out
of the specified range, a default value of 50 is used.

The font width and height values include ascenders, descenders, and other space. A
font must be defined for each field to be printed. There is not a default font.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Tables 22 & 23 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-28

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BARCODE COMMANDS

BAR CODES

FUNCTION

FORMAT

To print bar code images on a label.

2:5 narrow/wide ratio: <ESC>BDabbcccd

1:3 narrow/wide bar ratio: <ESC>Babbcccd

1:2 narrow/wide bar ratio: <ESC>Dabbcccd

a = 0: Codabar

1: Code 39
2: Interleaved 2 of 5 (I 2/5)
3: UPC-A / EAN-13
4: EAN-8
5: Industrial 2 of 5
6: Matrix 2 of 5
7: reserved
8: reserved
9: reserved
A: MSI
B: reserved
C: Code 93
D: reserved
E: UPC-E
F: Bookland
G: Code 128
I: SSCC

bb = Number of dots (01-12) for narrow bar and narrow space

ccc = Bar height in dots (001-999)

d = SSCC only. Not used for other bar code types

0: No human readable text
1: Human readable at top
2: Human readable at bottom

Place immediately preceding the data to be encoded.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-29

BAR CODES

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

EXAMPLE

Note: Carriage Returns and Line Feeds have been added to the command listing for clarity and
should not be included in the actual data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>B103100*CODE 39*
<ESC>H0155<ESC>V0130<ESC>XS*CODE 39*
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD20210045676567
<ESC>H0075<ESC>V0310<ESC>XM45676567
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0375<ESC>BD30215001234567890
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0600<ESC>BD50210012345
<ESC>H0175<ESC>V0710<ESC>XS12345
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0775<ESC>BD60210012345
<ESC>H0105<ESC>V0885<ESC>XS12345
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0950<ESC>BA03100123455
<ESC>H0095<ESC>V1060<ESC>XS12345
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V1125<ESC>BC03100081234ABCD
<ESC>H0080<ESC>V1240<ESC>XS1234ABCD
<ESC>H0525<ESC>V0025<ESC>B002100A12345B
<ESC>H0565<ESC>V0135<ESC>XS12345
<ESC>H0475<ESC>V0200<ESC>BD303100123456789012
<ESC>H0525<ESC>V0375<ESC>BD4031001234567
<ESC>H0525<ESC>V0550<ESC>DE03100123456
<ESC>H0500<ESC>V0600<ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0533<ESC>V0655<ESC>OB123456
<ESC>H0350<ESC>V0725<ESC>D30315009827721123
<ESC>L0101<ESC>H0320<ESC>V0800<ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0365<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB98277
<ESC>H0505<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB21123
<ESC>H0665<ESC>V0760<ESC>BF0313021826
<ESC>H0680<ESC>V0730<ESC>OB21826
<ESC>H0425<ESC>V1125<ESC>D30315000633895260
<ESC>L0101<ESC>H0395<ESC>V1200<ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0440<ESC>V1278<ESC>OB06338
<ESC>H0580<ESC>V1278<ESC>OB95260
<ESC>H0730<ESC>V1155<ESC>BF0314024
<ESC>H0745<ESC>V1125<ESC>OB24
<ESC>H0325<ESC>V0950<ESC>BG03100>GAB>D789>C123456
<ESC>H0435<ESC>V1055<ESC>XSAB789123456 <ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-30

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BAR CODES

OUPUT

Without Incrementing:

<ESC>A<EXC>H0100<EXC>V0100
<ESC>BI104150101234567000000001
<ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

(4-22a)

With Incrementing:

<ESC>A<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100
<ESC>F001+001<ESC>BI104150101234567000000001
<ESC>Q2<ESC>Z

(4-22b)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-31

UPC and EAN bar codes are not affected by the different types of narrow to wide
ratios. Instead, the <ESC>D command adds descender bars to these codes where
needed to meet UPC specifications. The <ESC>BD command puts desender bars
and human readable text below the symbol.

The Code 128, UCC 128, MSI, and Code 93 bar codes are not affected by the narrow
to wide ratios.

The Codabar, Code 39, Industrial 2 of 5, and Matrix 2 of 5 bar codes are affected by
the Character Pitch command. This command must be placed before the Bar Code
command.

Because of their unique characteristics, two-dimensional (2D) symbols are covered
separately.

For UCC128, the FNC1 code is automatically inserted and the Mod 10 and Mod 103
check digits are automatically calculated. For the MSI bar code, the check digit is not
automatically calculated.

The <ESC>D and <ESC>BD commands are not valid for the MSI, Code 128, Code
93, UPC-E, Bookland, UCC128 and Postnet symbologies.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Tables 24 through 26 for additional information.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BARCODE, HUMAN READABLE INFORMATION (HRI)

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies the character type of human readable information (HRI) for barcode.

<ESC>da

a = Barcode type

3: JAN/EAN13
4: JAN/EAN8
H: UPC-A

b = Narrow Bar Width (01 to 12 dots)

c = Barcode Height (001 to 999 dots)

n = Print Data (barcode data)

d = Character Type Specification (XU,XS, XM, XB, XL, OA, OB)

n = Print Data (HRI data)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>d3021204902471006795
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-22c)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-32

Adds HRI with a specified character type. If data with other than the specified value is
set, printing will not be performed. When the barcode enlargement ratio and character
type is large, HRI may be overlapping each other.
The printer will properly lay out HRI.
HRI for JAN/WAN13 and UPC-A requires the following items:

8 dots/mm (203 dpi), “02” and “03” is the proper value for narrow bar width.
12 dots/mm (305 dpi), “03” and “04” is the proper value for narrow bar width.
24 dots/mm (309 dpi), “06”, “07”, and “08” is the proper value for narrow bar width.

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

EAN/UCC COMPOSITE SYMBOL

FUNCTION

FORMAT 1

Specifies the composite symbol of EAN/UCC.

<ESC>EUaabbn~n

a = 1D barcode symbology

a = 01 : RSS-14

02 : RSS-14 (Truncated)

03 : RSS-14 (Stacked)

04 : RSS-14 (Stacked Omnidirectional)

05 : RSS (Limited)

07 : UPC-A

08 : UPC-E

09 : EAN13

10 : EAN8

b = Minimum Bar Width (01 to 12 dots)

n = Print Data (Sum of 1D and 2D codes up to 120-digit)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

FORMAT 2

EXAMPLE

NOTES

<ESC>EUaabbcccn~n

a = 1D barcode symbology

a = 11 : UCC/EAN128 with CC-A/B

12 : UCC/EAN128 with CC-C

b = Minimum Bar Width (01 to 12 dots)

c = Height of Barcode (001 to 500 dots)

*Specify the value of [Height of barcode] when setting [Minimum
bar width] to [01]. For instance, if setting [Minimum bar width] is
[03] / [Height of barcode] is [100], [Height of barcode] will be 300
dots.

n = Print Data (Sum of 1D and 2D codes up to 120-digit)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100<ESC>EU01040361234567890|11990102
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

This command does not support RSS Expand. Print of HRI cannot be designated with
this command. If the value in 1D barcode symbology is not set to the data portion,
composite symbol will not be printed.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-33

CODE 93

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Specifies CODE93 barcode.

<ESC>BCaabbbccn~n

a = Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b = Barcode Height (001 to 999 dots)

c = Data Digit Number (01 to 99)

n = Print Data (barcode data)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>H0100<ESC>V1125<ESC>BC0310008123
<ESC>H0155<ESC>V1240<ESC>XS1234ABCD

(4-23)

The quantity of digit data and input data must be equal. A command error will occur if
the digit data and input data are not equal.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-34

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BOOKLAND

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies Bookland barcode.

<ESC>BFaabbn~n

a = Narrow bar width (01 to 03dots)

b = Barcode Height (001 to 999 dots)

n = Print Data (numeric (0 to 9) 2 to 5 digits)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>H0325<ESC>V0725<ESC>D30315009827721123
<ESC>L0101<ESC>H0295<ESC>V0800<ESC>ESC>OB0
<ESC>H0340<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB98277
<ESC>0480<ESC>V0878<ESC>OB21123
<ESC>H640<ESC>V0760<ESC>BF0313021826
<ESC>H655<ESC>V0730<ESC>OB21826

(4-24)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-35

Only numeric can be specified as print data. Refer to the attached table.

CODE128

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Specifies CODE128 barcode.

<ESC>BGaabbbn~n

a = Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b = Barcode Height (001 to 999 dots)

n = Print Data (barcode data)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>H0200<ESC>V0550<ESC>BG03100>GAB>B789>C123456
<ESC>H0310<ESC>V665<ESC>XSAB789123456

(4-25)

Specify Start Code at the head of the data.

(1) Start Code A = <ESC>G
(2) Start Code B = <ESC>H
(3) Start Code C = <ESC>I

When using “Start Code C”, specify the print data in even numbered digits.

When the print data contains an odd number of digits, specify “Start Code A” or B” to
change the first character of the print data.

Examples:

1) 15 digits [123456789012345]
<ESC>B1<ESC>C23456789012345

2) 9 digits/Alphanumeric 6 digits [123456789ABC123]
<ESC>C12345678<ESC>B9ABC123

If using “Start Code C” to specify an odd numbered digit, “0” will be added to the end
of the print data before printing.

When a Start Code is omitted, data will be printed with “Start Code B”.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 27 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-36

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

SSCC

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) barcode.

<ESC>BIaabbbcn~n

a = Narrow bar width (01 to 12 dots)

b = Barcode Height (001 to 999 dots)

c = Barcode Expository Font Specification

0: No HRI
1: HRL available (upper part)
2: HRI available (lower part)

n = Print Data

For barcode data, refer to the UCC/EAN128 code table.
EAN128 (Barcode for Standard Carton ID) fixed 18 digits:

Identifier of a continuous code for freight packaging
Type of packaging
Country/manufacturer code
Serial number for shipping container
Check digit

Note that check digit is automatically added; therefore, specify
data in 17 digits excluding check digit.

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

EXAMPLE

Without incrementing:

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>BI10415010123456000000001
<ESC>Q2
<ESC>Z

With incrementing:

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>F001+001
<ESC>BI104150101234567000000001
<ESC>Q2
<ESC>Z

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-37

SSCC

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

OUTPUT

NOTES

Without incrementing:

(4-26a)

With incrementing:

(4-26b)

UCC128 code is exclusive to Standard Carton ID. When printing in EAN128,
designed for the markets in the medical, fresh food, or flowers and plants, use
CODE128 Barcode <ESC>BG to specify print data with application identification or
separator that matches each specification.

Start character code, function character, end character code, and identification code
(corresponds only to “00”) are added automatically.

Modulus 10 check character and modulus 103 check character are automatically
generated.

Sequential number of barcode data is available.

Line pitch between barcode and expository font is fixed at 10 dots.

If the width of expository font is wider than that of the barcode, it starts printing from
the print start position of barcode.

If the width of expository font is narrower than that of the barcode, expository font will
be aligned to the center of barcode for printing.

Prints expository font in OCR-B.

If the expository font is outside of the print area, it will not be printed. When HRI is
available, specify Vertical Print Position (<ESC>V) and Horizontal Print Position
(<ESC>H) in consideration of print of expository font.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-38

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

POSTNET

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To print Postnet bar codes.

<ESC>BPn...n

n...n = 5 digits (Postnet-32 format)

6 digits (Postnet-37 format)
9 digits (Postnet-52 format)

11 digits (Postnet-62, Delivery Point format)

Place immediately preceding the data to be encoded.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0120<ESC>BP94089
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0160<ESC>BP123456
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0200<ESC>BP123456789
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0240<ESC>BP12345678901
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-27)

NOTES

If the number of data digits does not match those listed, the command is ignored.
Only numeric data will be accepted.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-39

VARIABLE RATIO BARCODES

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

To print a bar code with a ratio other than those specified through the standard bar
code commands (B,BD, and D). This is done through individual control of each of the
bar code elements (bars, spaces) as shown above. Remember that this command
only applies to the five bar code types shown.

<ESC>BTabbccddee

a = Bar Code Symbol:

0: Codabar
1: Code 39
2: Interleaved 2 of 5
5: Industrial 2 of 5
6: Matrix 2 of 5

bb = Narrow space in dots (01 to 99)

cc = Wide space in dots (01 to 99)

dd = Narrow bar in dots (01 to 99)

ee = Wide bar in dots (01 to 99)

Place following the print position commands and preceding <ESC>BW.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT101030103
<ESC>BW03100*1234*
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

OUTPUT

NOTES

(4-28)

This command must be immediately followed by the Bar Code Expansion
(<ESC>BW) command.

You may use only one variable ratio bar code per label.

If the data specified in this command is incorrect, the command is ignored and the
ratio used will be based on the previous setting.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-40

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BARCODE EXPANSION

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

This command works together with the <ESC>BT command to specify an expansion
factor and the bar code height for the particular symbol being printed.

<ESC>BWabbb

aa = Expansion factor by which the width of all bars and spaces will be

increased (01 to 12)

bbb = Bar height by dot (004 to 999 dots)

Place immediately following the <ESC>BT command and preceding data to be
encoded.

<ESC>A

<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>BT101030103
<ESC>BW04100*1234*
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-29)

NOTES

This command must be preceded by the Variable Ratio Bar Codes (<ESC>BT)
command.

The following bar codes will be affected by the Character Pitch command: Codabar,
Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-41

2D CODE COMMANDS

PDF417

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies PDF417 of 2D code.

<ESC>BKaabbcddeeffffg~g, h

a = Minimum Module Width (01 to 09 dots)

b = Minimum Module Height (01 to 24 dots)

c = Security Level (0 to 8)

d = Number of Data Code Words per Digit (01 to 30)

00: Automatic (width depends on data number specified)

e = Digit Number per Symbol (03 to 90)

00: Automatic (height depends on data number specified)

f = Data Digit Number (0001 to 2681)

g = Print Data (data)

h = PDF Code Type

When omitted: PDF417
T: Truncated scale
M: Micro PDF

n = Low Priority Message (alphanumeric/symbol)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100<ESC>BK0607400000021PDF417 PDF417 PDF417

(4-30)

The minimum module width can be set to 01 and 02; however, it may not read
properly. 01, 02, and 03 are designable for minimum module height and may cause a
reading problem.

If specifying “00” for Number of Data Code Words per Digit and Digit Number per
Symbol, the size of height to width (aspect ratio) will be at 1:2 based on the number of
print data.

If increasing the security level, it is necessary to specify a higher value for Digit
Number per Symbol or Number of Data Code Words per Digit.

The maximum Digit Number of Data is 2681; however, it may vary depending on the
specification of minimum module size, security level, and print data type.

If the specification of parameter or number of data is not matching, printing will not be
properly performed.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-42

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

QR CODE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies QR Code of 2D code.

<ESC>BQ (Manual setting)

<ESC>BQ (Auto setting)

a = Error correction level

1: 7% high density
2: 15% standard
3: 30% high reliability
4: 25%

b = Concentration mode

0: Normal mode
1: Concentration mode

c = Cell size (01 to 32)

d = Number of partitions by concentration mode (01 to 16)

e = Sequential number partitioned by concentration mode (01 to 16)

f = Concentration mode parity data (00 to ff)

g = Character mode

1: Number mode
2: Alphanumeric mode
3: Binary mode

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

h = Data number (0001 to 7366)

n=Data

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>BQ3010,112345
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-31)

Carry out XOR logic operation of all the partitioned print data of the QR code and
then, specify this operation data in hexadecimal character. This is referred to as
“Parity Data”.

When the character mode is set to other than binary mode, it is not necessary to set
the data number parameter.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-43

MAXI CODE

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

Specifies Maxi code of 2D code.

<ESC>BVa, b, c, ddddddddd, eee, fff, n~n

a = Symbol Number (1 to 8)

b = Symbol Digit Number (1 to 8)

c=Mode

2: for delivery
3: for delivery
4: standard symbol
6: for reader

d = Zip Code (0 to 999999)

e = Country Code (001 to 999)

f = Service Class (001 to 999)

n = Low Priority Message (alphanumeric/symbol)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100
<ESC>BV1,1,2,123456789,840,001,[)<RS>01<GS>961Z01547089<GS>UPSN

<GS>056872<GS>348<GS>99999999<GS>001/005
<GS>029<GS>N<GS><GS>LENEXA<GS>KS<RS><EOT>

<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

OUTPUT

NOTES

(4-32)

For mode 2, specify up to 9 numeric digits; and for mode 3, specify fixed 6 digits
(alphanumeric - use English capital letters). “00H” cannot be specified for print data.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-44

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

DATA MATRIX CODE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies Data Matrix Code of 2D code.

<ESC>BXaabbccddeeeffffghh

a = Format ID (01 to 06 dots)

b = Error Correction Level

00: ECC000
05: ECC050
08: ECC080
10: ECC100
14: ECC140
20: ECC200

c = Cell Width (01 to 16 dots/cell)

d = Cell Pitch (01 to 16 dots/cell)

e = Number of Cells per Line (008 to 148)

000: Automatic)

f = Number of Cell Line (008 to 148)

000: Automatic

g = Mirror Image

0: Normal Image (standard print)
1: Mirror Image

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

h = Guide Cell Size (01 to 15)

Place anywhere after <ESC>V but before <ESC>Q.

<ESC>V0100<ESC>H0100
<ESC>BX05051010000000001
<ESC>DCDATA MATRIX DATA MATRIX

(4-33)

If “20” is specified for Error Correction Level, the specification of Format ID, Mirror
Image, and Size of Guide Cell will be ignored.

“01” and “02” are designable for Cell Width and Cell Pitch; however, they may not
read properly. In this case, “00” will be an error.

If “000” is specified for Number of Cells per Line and Number of Cell Lines, optimum
matrix size is automatically set based on the number of data.

The thickness of normal type guide cell is “01”.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 28 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-45

DATA MATRIX CODE, DATA

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Specifies data for the data matrix code of 2D code.

<ESC>DC

n=Print data

Place after <ESC>BX.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>BX011002020000000001
<ESC>DC1234567890
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. Refer to <ESC>DC for printer output.

This code must be placed after the <ESC>BX command.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-46

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

DATA MATRIX CODE, SEQUENTIAL NUMBER

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies sequential numbering for the data matrix code of 2D code.

<ESC>FX

a = Quantity of duplications to print (001 to 999)

b = Flag of increase/decrease

+: Increase

-: Decrease

c = Quantity of increase/decrease (001 to 999)

d = Specification of digit position (001 to 999)

e = Digit number (001 to 999)

Place before <ESC>BX.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0100<ESC>FX001+001005003
<ESC>BX011002020000000001
<ESC>DC00006000
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>z

Label Set 1:

(4-34a)

Label Set 2:

(4-34b)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-47

This code must be placed before the <ESC>BX command.

SYSTEM COMMANDS

PRINT SPEED

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

GL
SPECIFIC
DATA

To specify a unique print speed through software for a particular label. This allows
flexibility in finding the best performance and quality for the particular label format,
media, and ribbon.

<ESC>CSa

a = Designates the speed selection in ips

Place immediately after <ESC>A and immediately before <ESC>Z in a separate data
stream.

Refer to the product manual for specific print speed increments.

<ESC>A <ESC>CS6 <ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

This becomes the new setting for all subsequent print jobs, unless changed. All
subsequent labels will print at this speed unless the speed is changed with this
command or through the Operator Panel.

The setting is stored in non-volatile memory and is not affected by cycling the power.

The GL4xxe can be operated at either 8 dots/mm or 12 dots/mm, depending on the
print head installed.

The parameter range is 1 through 9 for both print resolutions, as follows:

1: 2 ips (50 mm/s)

2: 3 ips (75 mm/s)

3: 4 ips (100 mm/s)

4: 5 ips (125 mm/s)

5: 6 ips (150 mm/s)

6: 7 ips (175 mm/s)

7: 8 ips (200 mm/s)

8: 9 ips (225 mm/s)

9: 10 ips (250 mm/s)

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-48

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

PRINT DARKNESS

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

GL
SPECIFIC
DATA

To specify a new print darkness setting through software control for unique media and
ribbon combinations.

<ESC>#Ea

a = Print Darkness Value

Must be placed immediately after <ESC>A and immediately before <ESC>Z in its
own separate data stream.

Refer to the product manual for specific print speed increments.

<ESC>A
<ESC>#E2
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

This becomes the new setting in the printer configuration for all subsequent print jobs
unless changed. The setting is stored in non-volatile memory and is not affected by
cycling power. The lightest setting is the smallest value and the darkest setting is the
largest value.

The format for GL4xxe is <#E>ab, where

a [Print darkness level specification] =

1: -15 (Lightest)

2: -7 (Light)

3: 0 (Normal)(Initial value)

4: +7 (Dark)

5: +15 (Darkest)

b [Print darkness specification] = A ~ F (Omissible)

The initial value is 3, and the valid parameter range is 1 - 5 for 8 dots/mm and 12 dots/
mm print head configurations.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-49

CUTTING OPERATION

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

To specify the movement of cutting.

<ESC>NC

<ESC>A
<ESC>NC
<ESC>Z

c Label stop position

A : Print completed
B : Not printed
C : Not printed
D : Not printed

" Receiving command

" Feeding label to cutting

position

" Cutting label

" Backfeeding to the head

position

NOTES

This command is valid only for the printer equipped with cutter. This command
discharges and cuts labels. Delimit Start of Data Transmission <A> and End of
Transmission <Z> with this command for use. This command cannot be used in
combination with other commands. This command is valid when printer is in standby
state after the completion of print.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-50

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

BASE REFERENCE POINT

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To establish a new base reference point for the current label. The base reference
point is the top left corner or “origin” from where all print position commands are
based. This command may be very helpful when using labels less than four inches
wide to place images on the printable label surface. It may also be used to move
images past preprinted fields on a label.

<ESC>A3H-aaaa-Vbbbb

- = This character is optional. When present, it specifies that The
horizontal offset is in the negative direction. If it is left out the
offset direction is positive.

aaaa = Horizontal Print Offset (-Hmax to +Hmax)

bbbb = Vertical Print Offset (-Vmax to +Vmax)

Place preceding all images based on the new base reference point.

<ESC>A
<ESC>L0202
<ESC>H0025<ESC>V0025<ESC>WB0MNORMAL REFERENCE POINT
<ESC>A3H0300V0075
<ESC>H0100<ESC>V0050<ESC>WB0MNEW REFERENCE POINT
<ESC>Q1
<ESC>Z

(4-36)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-51

Use of this command will set the printer’s Vertical/Horizontal Offset configuration until
a new Base Reference Point command is issued or the setting is changed from the
operator panel.

This command may be used more than once in a print job.

An alternative to using this command is to make changes to your current Horizontal
and Vertical Print Position commands.

Example: If the current base reference point is H=1, V=1 and you wish to move all the
fields on your label downward vertically by 150 dots. You could either, (1) add the
Base Reference Point command or, (2) change all the vertical position commands by
an additional 150 dots.

For a more detailed example of the Base Reference Point command, refer to the
Introduction unit.

The printer will not “wrap” if any part of a character or image extends beyond the last
print dot position. It will disappear and not be visible on any part of the label.

PRINT AREA, ENLARGEMENT

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Specifies the print area to be standard height of 178 mm or enlarged to 356 mm.

<ESC>AR Standard print area

<ESC>AX Enlarged print area

Place after <ESC>A within the data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>AR
<ESC>Z

(4-37)

NOTES

This command changes the print area of pitch direction.

Insert this command after Start of Data Transmission (<ESC>A). To return to the
standard print area, power off the printer to cancel the command.

PRINT END POSITION

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Changes the label stop position in the sensor invalid mode.

<ESC>EP

Place after <ESC>A within the data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>EP
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

None.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-52

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

CUT, JOB

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Regulates label cutting when using a cutter assembly with the printer. This command
allows the cutting of a multi-part tag or label at a specified interval within a print job.

<ESC>~aaaa

aaaa = Number of labels to print between each cut (1 to 9999)

Place following the Print Quantity command <ESC>Q.

<ESC>A
<ESC>H0020<ESC>V0020<ESC>XB1ABC<ESC>Q3
<ESC>~0002
<ESC>Z

This set of commands will print 6 labels (3 x 2) with two labels between each cut.

(4-38)

The optional label cutter must be installed and the printer configured for its use for this
function to be valid. If the cut value is (a = 0), the cutter is inactive.

A “~” (tilde) character or <NUL> (ASCII 00 Hex) character can be used in this
command. It is recommended that the “~” be used whenever possible.

When using the Cutter command, the total number of labels printed is the product of
the cut value and the print quantity.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-53

CUT, LABEL

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Regulates label cutting when using a cutter assembly with the printer. This command
allows the cutting of a multi-part tag or label at a specified interval within a print job. It
differs from the <ESC>~ Cut Job command in that it does not interact with the
quantity command.

ESC>~Aaaaa

aaaa = Number of labels to print between each cut (1 to 9999)

Place preceding the <ESC>Q Print Quantity command.

This set of commands will print seven labels with two labels between each cut. One
label will be cut separately.

(4-39)

The optional cutter assembly must be installed and enabled to use this function.

If the cutter option has been enabled in the printer configuration and the cut value is
(a = 0), the cutter is inactive.

This command is independent of the <ESC>Q Quantity command. It will cut the
specified number of labels.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-54

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

CUT, LAST

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

Regulates label cutting when using a cutter assembly with the printer. This command
allows the cutting of a printed multi-part tag or label that is left in the printer after a job
is cut.

<ESC>~B

Place in a separate data stream sent to the printer.

<ESC>A
<ESC>~B
<ESC>Z

This command will feed the last printed label to the cut position, cut the label and then
back feed to the head position in preparation for printing the next job.

(4-40)

NOTES

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-55

The optional cutter assembly must be installed and enabled to use this function.

CLEAR PRINT JOBS & MEMORY

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To clear individual memory or buffer areas of the printer.

<ESC>*a

a = If the “a” parameter is not included with this command and the

printer is in the multi-buffer mode, this command clears all print
jobs in the printer memory, including the current print job.

a = If “a” is included with this command, it specifies the internal

memory section to be cleared. To clear the custom character
memory & To clear the form overlay memory X To clear all
internal memory

This command should be sent to the printer as an independent data stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>*
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. The current print job in the buffer will
be terminated and all other print jobs in the buffer cleared.

See Expanded Memory Functions for variations of this command used to clear data
from the optional Expanded Memory.

It is not necessary to clear the printer’s memory between each print job.

The primary purpose of this command is to clear all print jobs in the multi-buffer
mode. The “a” parameter can be used in either the multi-buffer or single job mode to
clear specific parts of the memory.

When the “a” parameter is used, the section of memory specified will not be cleared
until the label is printed.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-56

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

OFFLINE/PAUSE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

ONLINE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies when, and under what circumstances, the printer goes into an off-line state.
When used within a print job, the printer goes off-line after finishing the print job.

<ESC>@,nn . . . n

nn...n = Optional display message on the LCD (32 characters max.)

Place anywhere between <ESC>A and <ESC>Z.

<ESC>A
<ESC>@, LOAD BLUE LABELS AND PLACE PRINTER ON-LINE
...Job...
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output. The printer is placed in the Off-Line
mode as soon as the current print job is finished.

When using this command and the print job specifies <ESC>Q10, all ten labels will
print before the printer goes off-line. Press the LINE key to return the printer to an on­line status.

Changes the printer from offline to online status.

<ESC>OL

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Place anywhere between <ESC>A and <ESC>Z.

<ESC>A
<ESC>OL
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

Up to 32 characters are available for LCD messages.

In the printer’s Receive Mode, specify the single-item buffer mode. This command is
not disclosed to users.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-57

REPEAT LABEL

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To print a duplicate of the last label printed.

<ESC>C

Place immediately after <ESC>A and immediately before <ESC>Z in a separate data
stream.

<ESC>A
<ESC>C
<ESC>Z

A duplicate of the previous label will be printed.

This command will not have an effect if the printer’s power is cycled off and back on
since printing the previous label.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-58

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

EEPROM SETUP

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Registers the operation of the printer in EEPROM.

<ESC>PG

Place immediately after <ESC>A.

<ESC>A
<ESC>PG
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

This command is not necessary with normal label printing. The operational settings
specified are still in effect after powering off the printer.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 29 for additional information.

FLASH ROM SETUP

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Registers the operation of the printer in EEPROM.

<ESC>PC

Place immediately after <ESC>A.

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

<ESC>A
<ESC>PC26,1
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

Go to the Advanced Mode or Service Mode for configuration. These command setting
will remain in effect after powering off the printer.

The entire or partial parameter entries is omissible by using commas for total settings.
Any commas that are omitted will result in those settings remaining as default.

Refer to Appendix: Reference Table 30 for additional information.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-59

SERIAL INTERFACE, CONFIGURATION

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

Specifies the programming configuration of the serial interface.

<ESC>I2abcde

a = Baud rate

0: 9600 bps
1: 9200 bps
2: 8400 bps
3: 57600 bps

b = Data bits

0: 8
1: 7

c=Parity

0: No parity
1: Odd parity
2: Even parity

d = Stop bits

0: 1 Stop bit
1: 2 Stop bits

e = 0: Single item buffer

1: Multi item buffer
2: X-On/X-Off Flow control
3: Bi-Com 4
4: Bi-Com 3

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

Place in separate data stream sent to the printer.

<ESC>A
<ESC>I230011
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

The settings are stored in the EEPROM by this command and they will remain in
effect until a new <ESC>I2 command is received. Cycling power will not have an
effect on these settings.

To change the value stored in the EEPROM, use the <ESC>PC Printer Setting
command or use the Printer Setting Utility program contained on the CDROM shipped
with the printer.

All command parameters must be present in the data stream sent to the printer.

Selecting X-On/X-Off, Bi-Com3 or Bi-Com4 will automatically place the printer in the
Multi Buffer mode.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-60

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

SENSOR TYPE

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

NOTES

To select a label sensing method for a print job.

<ESC>IGa

a = 0: Reflective (Eye-Mark) sensor

1: Gap (transmissive) sensor
2: Sensor not used.

Place in separate data stream sent to the printer.

<ESC>A
<ESC>IG1
<ESC>Z

This command does not result in printer output.

When the power is cycled, the value set by this command is lost and replaced by the
default value stored in the EEPROM.

To change the value stored in the EEPROM, use the Printer Setting (<ESC>PC)
command or use the Printer Setting Utility program contained on the CD-ROM shipped
with the printer.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-61

LINE FEED

Unit 4: Standard Command Codes

FUNCTION

FORMAT

EXAMPLE

OUTPUT

To print multiple lines of the same character size without specifying a new print
position for each line.

<ESC>Eaaa

aaa = Number of dots (001-999) between the bottom of the characters

on one line to the top of the characters on the next line.

Place preceding the text that will use the line feed function.

<ESC>A
<ESC>E010<ESC>H0050<ESC>V0050<ESC>L0202<ESC>S
THIS IS THE 1ST LINE<CR>
THIS IS THE 2ND LINE<CR>
THIS IS THE 3RD LINE<CR>
<ESC>Q1<ESC>Z

(4-41)

NOTES

With the Line Feed (<ESC>E) command, specify the number of dots you want
between each line. Then, send an ASCII <ESC>CR at the end of each line of text. The
printer automatically identifies the size of the last character, moves down the number
of dots specified, and begins printing the next line.

It is effective only for the current data stream.

When printing lines or boxes in the same data stream with the Line Feed command,
the Lines and Boxes command should be specified last, preceding Quantity
(<ESC>Q) command.

This command is invalid only if the value specified is zero.

Following this command with a <ESC>CR character will allow printing with auto line
feed. The print position will be determined from the value specified and the H value set
in the printer. If several “H” values are specified after this command, the print position
will be determined by the “H” value last specified. The font to be used must be
redefined after each “H” command.

SATO GL4xxe SBPL Programming Reference Page 4-62