Genicom GEK 00031B - Manual (Page 8)

Chapter 1. Introduction GEK-00029B 8
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
OVERVIEW OF PRINTER EMULATION
Commands are sent to the printer in the form of control codes and
escape sequences. These differ from normal data to be printed in that
they give instructions to the printer on paper movement, style of
print, size, density, and many other selectable features.
Certain protocols are needed so that the printer can recognize and
act on these commands sent from the host.
The shuttle matrix printer contains emulations to make it behave in a
manner that is functionally similar to other printers. The emulations
that it contains are:
▪ ANSI Standard X3.64-1979 (Default)
▪ Printronix P300/P600
▪ Printronix P Series
▪ IBM Proprinter
▪ Epson FX286-e (9-wire dot matrix)
▪ DEC LG / Compaq LGPlus
▪ DEC PPL III
Each emulation has a set of control codes and/or escape sequences
that are explained in this manual. There is a separate chapter for
each emulation.
CONTROL CODES
Control codes are used to transmit information other than printable
characters to the printer. They may occupy the first 32 locations on
the ASCII code chart and are represented by two- or three-letter
abbreviations. Locations 0X80 through 0X9F may also be interpreted
as control codes, depending on the emulation and settings.
The control code <LF> (10 decimal, 0A hex), for instance, is almost
universally interpreted as a line feed. However, the response of the
printer to other control codes will depend on the emulation.
ESCAPE SEQUENCES
Remote selection of the printer's functions and features is achieved
by using command strings (a combination of characters and
parameters) preceded by an <ESC> (27 decimal, IB hex) or CSI
character (155 decimal, 9B hex). Escape sequences associated with
similar functions will vary from one emulation to the next.