HP 3150 EN - Manual (Page 74)

72 Functional overview EN
Formatter system
The formatter is responsible for the following:
● controlling the document scanner
● formatting and controlling faxes
● formatting and controlling copies
● receiving and processing print data from the printer interface
● monitoring the control panel and relaying printer status
information
● developing and coordinating data placement and timing with the
print engine
● communicating with the host computer through the bidirectional
interface
The formatter receives print data from the bidirectional ECP interface
and converts it into a dot image. The ECU synchronizes the image
formation system with the paper feed system and signals the
formatter to send the print image data. The formatter sends the print
image data (dots) in the form of a video signal and the printing
process begins.
Central processing unit
The formatter incorporates a Motorola 68030 custom microprocessor
operating at 25.2 megahertz (MHz).
Memory
Memory can be cleared by removing the formatter board. For
information about removing the formatter board, see Chapter 5,
“Removal and replacement.”
Read-only memory (ROM)
● Flash ROM stores the microprocessor control program.
● Masked ROM, also known as Boot ROM, stores startup
sequences, commands, and the demo page.