PROGRAMMING GUIDE FRIENDLY GHOST LANGUAGE FGL46 / FGL26 FGL44 / FGL24 FGL42 / FGL22 Revision S (March 9, 2012) Bällstavägen 61 SE-168 66 Bromma Sweden Phone: +46 8 652 84 22 SMS/MMS: +46 705 429 501 www.mikmek.
(March 9, 2012) Revision S FRIENDLY GHOST LANGUAGE (FGL) is Boca’s industry standard language that allows the user to print data, graphics, boxes and bar codes anywhere on the ticket in virtually any orientation. Great care has been taken to make this language user friendly without sacrificing any of the features and flexibility required by both future and existing customers. FGL has been structured in such a way to easily accommodate adding new functions in the future.
DOWNLOADING FILE SUPPLEMENT ............................................................................................................ 32 DOWNLOADING LOGO SUPPLEMENT ......................................................................................................... 34 DOWNLOADING BMP & PCX SUPPLEMENT................................................................................................. 36 FGL TEXT LOGO (MACRO) SUPPLEMENT .....................................................................
GENERAL DESCRIPTION - READ THIS FIRST Many people will have neither the time nor patience to read through this entire programming guide. For those of you, we recommend that you skip to Appendix A and B of the manual. Appendix A contains sample basic programs, while Appendix B quickly lists all of the Ghostwriter commands.
small margin around the perimeter of the ticket in which no printing can appear. The starting position on each ticket is row 0, column 0 (0, 0). This is the left top-most corner of a ticket. The end of the ticket (the bottom right-hand corner) is considered to be position row 383, column 1049 (383, 1049). The printer can print different size character sets depending on the font size sent to it.
a return will position the next character below the beginning of the sentence as if it started with a double-sized character. If this feature is not desired, skip the return character and send a row/column command to position the next character where desired. Note - Care must be used when using size modifiers and positioning commands. In most instances, the printer will ignore all data sent outside the ticket boundaries as well as any data sent following an illegal positioning command.
A human readable interpretation line can also be selected by sending a BI (bar code interpretation) command. Please note that the bar codes will be printed the same way as characters are. This means that non-rotated picket fence bar codes will expand down and to the right from the initial starting position (with the interpretation below - if selected). Rotated-upside down picket fence bar codes expand in the opposite direction.
DIAGNOSTIC MODE The printer can be put in a diagnostic mode when there appears to be a problem communicating with it. In this mode, the printer simply stores all the data it receives and prints it out as is on a ticket. It does not process the data as ticket information. See the diagnostic mode supplement for further details. PAPER MODE Paper mode is primarily used for internal printer testing. As a result, there are a number of features that do not operate exactly as a standard BOCA printer.
COMMAND SEQUENCES The Ghostwriter accepts a wide variety of commands to control the printing of characters. A command sequence performs a unique function and many different sequences can be sent for each string to be printed. A command is distinguished from text by the < > characters. A < is used as a front marker for a command sequence and the > is used for an end marker. Any data sent between these markers is interpreted as command data. The data to be printed on the ticket is sent with no markers.
BOXSIZE COMMAND - This command changes the box size to the values sent. The first value is the box width and the second is the box height. The character printed sits in this box. The font3 box size is 20x33 so in this example the character will sit in a box that is one dot higher (34) and one dot wider (21) than normal. This means that there will be an extra dot space between characters and between lines of characters. This command is used to get compressed or expanded spacing of characters.
default size of 4 will be used. Each unit represents an 8 dot high bar so a default bar code will be 32 dots high. Bar codes can only be rotated in specific directions - and for picket fence; and for ladder bar codes. Refer to the particular bar code supplement selected in order to find the exact commands and strings needed for bar code printing. BAR CODE EXPANDED COMMAND - This command allows you to expand the width of a bar code bar (normally based on a one dot unit).
REPEAT COMMAND - The REPEAT command allows the user to print multiple copies without retransmitting the ticket. The number used in the repeat command represents the number of tickets to be printed in addition to the first ticket. The repeat command can be sent anywhere in the data stream prior to the print command. TRANSPARENT MODE ON COMMAND - All data sent after receipt of this command will be transmitted out of the CRT #1 port without being processed by the printer.
This feature is for customers whose systems can't handle non-ASCII characters but need valid xon/xoff values. All status information, except for a valid xon/xoff, will have 30h added to them to convert them to an ASCII value. This command remains in effect until power off. Note: xon/xoff status sent in response to an command will have the 30H added but xon/xoff sent for handshaking will not. (Values over 20H are unaffected by this command.
The printer maintains separate re-settable ticket counts for each path. This command resets the re-settable ticket count on the printer. The # field represents the path number. The re-settable ticket count is printed on the test ticket preceded by RTC. This count is not affected by turning off the printer. PERMANENT TICKET COUNT - (no applicable commands) – [not available on 22/42] - The printer maintains separate non re-settable ticket counts for each path.
DIAGNOSTIC MODE COMMAND - The printer can be put in diagnostic mode by sending a command. For an explanation of diagnostic mode, see the diagnostic supplement. This command remains in effect until power off. PURGE PRINTER OF REMAINING TICKETS COMMAND - or Normally, when the printer runs out of tickets, it will save whatever ticket data it has not yet printed. Then, when new stock has been loaded, it will continue where it left off.
values. This command should only be used by customers that are modifying the font data with their own bitmaps. This command will be stored in flash, if present, and will remain in effect until disabled. EXPANDED CHARACTER MODE DISABLE COMMAND - This is the normal default condition of the printer. This command is used to disable the function of the command mentioned above. This command will be stored in flash, if present, and will remain in effect until a is issued.
DISABLE TEST TICKET ACKNOWLEDGE COMMAND - This command returns the printer to the normal test ticket mode in which no ack character is sent. SCALE DOWN COMMAND - [not available on 22/24/26] An FGL fonts may be scaled down to a fraction of its original size. The font will be divided by the # indicated in the scale down command. This command may be used in combination with the command to create fractional multiples of font sizes. (e.g.
FILE COMMANDS FILE ID COMMAND - See the downloading file supplement for further details PERMANENT FILE COMMAND - [not available on 22/24/26] See the downloading file supplement for further details TEMPORARY FILE COMMAND - See the downloading file supplement for further details DELETE FILE COMMAND - See the downloading file supplement for further details PRINT COMMANDS PRINT / CUT TICKET - This is the normal print command.
PRINT / NO CUT (HOLD TICKET IMAGE) - This command works just like the hold command above except that in cut mode no ticket is cut until a normal print command ( or FF) is sent.(NOTE: This command is not currently supported when using soft fonts. This command is not applicable to MagMini and Dual printers.) SPECIAL COMMANDS The following commands are to be transmitted independently (without the < or > characters). NORMAL PRINT / CUT COMMAND - 0CH (FF) This command prints and cuts the ticket.
DRIVER COMMANDS (implemented November 2007 on new 26/46 printers) In general, we discourage sending FGL commands from the driver as they lead to unexpected results. However, the following commands were designed specifically for use with windows drivers. All of these commands must be sent using one of BOCA’s resident fonts. (Mac and Linux drivers do not support resident fonts.
STANDARD INTERFACE PINOUTS RS232 (std) PIN FUNCTION 2 Printer Transmit 3 Printer Receive 7 Ground 5,20 Printer Ready 4,22 RTS (+5V) SERIAL PINOUTS RS232 (PC) PIN FUNCTION 2 Printer Receive 3 Printer Transmit 5 RTS (+5V) 6 DTR (printer rdy) 7 Ground 8 CD (+5V) RS232 CPU PORT (RJ11) PIN FUNCTION 1 DTR (printer rdy) 2 Printer Transmit 3 Printer Receive 4 Ground 5 Ground 6 TYPICAL RS232 PIN CONNECTIONS (standard) (standard) (pc type) 25 PIN PC 9 PIN PC 25 PIN PC BOCA CPU BOCA CPU BOCA CPU 2 ---- 3 RXD 2 ----
UPC SUPPLEMENT UPC (version A) is a numeric only code that contains a left hand border character, 6 left hand characters, a center character, 6 right hand characters and a right border character. The letter U is used to select UPC bar code. The border and center characters are defined as follows: Left Border Center Right Border J K L All UPC bar codes include a check digit. The UPC check digit is the 12th digit, located in the lower-right corner of the barcode itself.
INTERLEAVED 2OF5 SUPPLEMENT Interleaved 2 of 5 bar code is a numeric only bar code. All I 2 of 5 bar codes must contain an even number of characters and are bracketed by a stop and start character. The character is the colon (:). The letter F is used to select interleaved two of five bar code. Note: this bar code can be printed in either a 2:1 or 3:1 wide to narrow ratio. The following are 2:1 ratio commands (the default value).
EAN13 SUPPLEMENT EAN13 is a numeric only bar code. All EAN13 codes must contain a variable parity bit followed by a front guard character (J), 6 lefthand characters, a center pattern (K), 6 righthand characters and an ending guard pattern (L). The parity of the lefthand characters is determined by the first (parity) bit. The last bit in the righthand side is the check-digit. The firmware automatically recalculates this value after transmission. The letter E is used to select EAN13 bar code.
CODE 128 SUPPLEMENT Code 128 is an alphanumeric bar code. All code 128 data must be bracketed by a caret (^) on both sides. The letter O is used to select one twenty eight bar code. Shift characters and check digits are automatically calculated by the Ghostwriter. The printer will switch between start codes ‘B’ and ‘C’ where appropriate. A typical ladder code 128 bar code would be sent as follows: "^CODE128^" This would result in a 3 unit wide bar code starting on row 0, column 70.
TWO DIMENSIONAL BAR CODE SUPPLEMENT The 2D bar codes are available in 24/44 Ghostwriter printers and 26/46 Lemur model printers. There are four 2D barcode types currently supported. They are: 1. 2. 3. 4. PDF 417 – Portable Data File DTM – Data Matrix QR – Quick Response (26/46 printer only) AZ – Aztec (26/46 printer only) To print the 2D bar codes or true type fonts it is necessary for the printer to have a version of firmware and resident font files that are new enough.
PDF417 N4 04 Pt PDF417 N4 06 Pt PDF417 N4 08 Pt PDF417 N4 10 Pt PDF417 N4 12 Pt PDF417 N5 04 Pt PDF417 N5 06 Pt PDF417 N5 08 Pt PDF417 N5 10 Pt PDF417 N5 12 Pt Dat
PDF-417 2D Bar Code PDF-417 Bar Codes - {barcode text} All of the Portable Data File (PDF) bar code command parameters are optional. If omitted default values will be used. The PDF command and the barcode text is all that is required. For example the command {Boca Systems} will create a PDF 417 2D barcode for the text “Boca Systems” using all default values. Experimentation with the parameters is the easiest way to determine the effect of each.
Data Matrix 2D Bar Code Data Matrix Bar Codes - {barcode text} All of the Data Matrix (DTM) bar code command parameters are optional. If omitted default values will be used. The DTM command and the barcode text is all that is required. For example the command {Boca Systems} will create a Data Matrix 2D barcode for the text “Boca Systems” using all default values. Experimentation with the parameters is the easiest way to determine the effect of each.
Quick Response 2D Bar Code Quick Response Bar Codes - {barcode text} All of the Quick Response (QR) bar code command parameters are optional. If omitted default values will be used. The QR command and the barcode text is all that is required. For example the command {Boca Systems} will create a Quick Response 2D barcode for the text “Boca Systems” using all default values. Experimentation with the parameters is the easiest way to determine the effect of each.
Aztec 2D Bar Code Aztec Bar Codes - {barcode text} Both of the Aztec (AZ) bar code command parameters are optional. If omitted default values will be used. The Aztec command and the barcode text is all that is required. For example the command {Boca Systems} will create an Aztec 2D barcode for the text “Boca Systems” using all default values. Experimentation with the parameters is the easiest way to determine the effect of each.
DOWNLOADING FILE SUPPLEMENT NOTE: 22/24/26 does not support any of the flash related functions described below. The printer supports three modes of file storage: resident, permanent, or temporary. Resident files are usually stored in FLASH by Boca Systems. Permanent files are stored in FLASH by the customer and temporary files are stored in RAM. All files downloaded to the printer are initially stored as permanent files.
• The printer keeps track of the file ID's as they are deleted. The ID assigned to the next file downloaded will always be one greater than the highest remaining ID left in the printer. If all files are deleted, then the ID number starts back at one. Example: If the printer has soft font1, soft font2, soft font3, and logo1 downloaded and you wanted to delete soft font2 you would send the following string: . The next soft font downloaded would then be soft font4.
DOWNLOADING LOGO SUPPLEMENT NOTE: 22/24/46 does not support any of the flash related functions described below. Note: please read the Downloading File Supplement first. Logos can originate in one of two manners. They can be permanently stored in the printer's memory before leaving the factory or they can be downloaded by the customer directly. The former is accessed by use of the command, the latter, by the command.
PRINT DOWNLOADED LOGOS - To print a downloaded logo #2 starting at row/column position 50,120 send: The following sample Basic program illustrates one way to send a downloaded logo to the printer (use the figure for reference).
DOWNLOADING BMP & PCX SUPPLEMENT (PCX not available on 22/24/26) (BMP available on 46 Only) BMP & PCX files are a commonly found format used by image and paint programs. These files can be downloaded directly as is to the printer as long as they are preceded with a small FGL string. The only restriction on the BMP & PCX file is that it must be saved in the 1-bit format. This is the normal format for noncolor images.
To store a bmp or pcx file as a logo in flash run the above program with the following line changes. 175 PRINT #1,chr$(27); 250 PRINT #1,chr$(27); The logo can then be printed as explained above (eg. ). BMP, PCX vs FGL Image format The BOCA printer handles both 1-bit BMP & PCX files and FGL image files. PCX files take up less room in memory than the corresponding FGL image. Therefore, more logos can fit in memory if they are in PCX format than in the FGL format.
DOWNLOADING FONTS SUPPLEMENT Note: please read the Downloading File Supplement first. 44 and 46 printers will no longer accept downloaded FGL bitmapped fonts. Instead, you can download HP Soft fonts directly to the printer. Soft fonts are readily available and, therefore, provide a far greater selection of fonts than those available through FGL. Soft font files contain complete character data and instructions and may be downloaded “as is” to the printer. Soft fonts usually end with the .SFP or .
RESIDENT FONT TRANSLATION TABLE ENABLE/DISABLE COMMAND - or Normally, the Translation Table command above does not work with Resident fonts (like font13). A new command has been added to allow the user to translate resident fonts. For example, font 13 which is stored in the printer in code page 850 format can be printed as code page 1252. You could use the command to do this. Use the lowercase commands to permanently store the commands in the printer.
TRUETYPE FONTS SUPPLEMENT (This option is available with all 26/46 models and some 24/44 models. Also needed is the appropriate SB02 or SB03 resident font file. ) TrueType Download Command - The TrueType font files can be downloaded manually or through a customer’s application using the appropriate command. The command is issued to alert the printer that a TrueType file follows; the # sign is replaced with the TrueType fonts file size as reported by the operating system.
While considering the and examples below let’s pretend the user has already downloaded three TTF files into the printer in the following order: 1. Times New Roman 2. Arial 3.
UPDATING FIRMWARE, FONTS and FEATURES Most features of the 24/44 and 26/46 printers can be updated through the printer’s communication port. Boca has a customer program found on our website (www.bocasystems.com/news.html ) that allows the customer to send a new firmware version directly to the printer without the need to open up the printer. After updating successfully the printer will reset itself. The printer will display the message Updating code while it is updating the firmware.
BOX AND LINE SUPPLEMENT The box and line commands are very useful in adding a finished appearance to the ticket. The following example shows how a ticket could be formatted using these commands. (NOTE: The following ticket is printed on a 2" wide print head with 200 dpi.
HOST TO PRINTER COMMUNICATION SUPPLEMENT BOCA printers can be used with a variety of Host systems, including IBM PC's or compatibles, Apple computers, mainframes and mini computers like the IBM AS400. They are also used with many different types of terminals, protocol converters, and spoolers. However, some of these devices (particularly the AS400) have a tendency to automatically add unwanted characters to the printer's data stream.
DIAGNOSTIC MODE SUPPLEMENT The printer can be put in diagnostic mode thru either hardware or software. The control panel can be used to select “diagnostic mode”. To put the printer in diagnostic mode thru software, send the command. Diagnostic mode is used when there appears to be a problem communicating with the printer. When the printer is in this mode, it stores all the data sent to it but does not process it as ticket data. Instead, it prints each data value between 0 and FFH as a unique character.
ORIENTAL CHARACTER SETS (Not available for 22/24/26) Boca offers several resident oriental fonts as options. The optional Japanese font supplied with the FGL printer contains the following types of characters: miscellaneous symbols; upper and lower case Roman characters and numerals; Hiragana characters; full-width Katakana; Greek characters, Cyrillic characters and approximately 6350 KANJI characters. This character set is provided in all four FGL directions.
Sample Basic Program The following basic program was used to print the sample Japanese ticket. CLS OPEN "lpt1:" FOR OUTPUT AS #1 WIDTH #1, 255 PRINT #1, ""; FOR i = 1 TO 7 'row number FOR j = 1 TO 94 'cell number IF j MOD 20 = 0 THEN PRINT #1, CHR$(13); END IF PRINT #1, CHR$(i + 160); CHR$(j + 160); NEXT j PRINT #1, CHR$(13); CHR$(13); NEXT i PRINT #1, CHR$(12); Sample Ticket Rows 1-7 of KANJI Font Note: The above was printed on a 300 dpi printer.
DUAL PRINTER SUPPLEMENT - Print on ticket path #1. This command must be sent prior to any other data or commands for this ticket. - Print on ticket path #2. This command must be sent prior to any other data or commands for this ticket. NOTE: We recommend sending and on every ticket printed on a dual printer. Commands which have been modified in relation to dual mode. - Permanent print length command.
Miscellaneous Comments on Duals • Test Tickets - The first test ticket will be printed on path #2. Each time the test button is pressed, the printer will alternate between the two ticket paths. If the test button is pressed and held, multiple test tickets will be printed on the same path. • Out of Tickets - Ticket stock is continuously monitored on both ticket paths. Anytime either path run out of tickets the printer will stop and wait for tickets to be reloaded.
FGL CONTROL PANEL The 24/44 and 26/46 printers allow the user to adjust various printer options through the control panel. Enters new value. Also saves new values Selects proper menu topic (baud rate, cut count, etc.) Scrolls through choices in individual menu topics To access and use the OPERATOR MENU, follow these steps: 1. Ticket stock should be loaded into the printer.
The following is an overview of what each Menu option does: BAUD RATE? Controls the serial interface baud rate, parity bit, data bits and stop bits. Here are the following choices: 1200,N,8,1 1200,E,7,1 1200,O,7,1 2400,N,8,1 2400,E,7,1 2400,O,7,1 4800,N,8,1 4800,E,7,1 4800,O,7,1 9600,N,8,1 9600,E,7,1 9600,0,7,1 19200,N,8,1 19200,E,7,1 19200,0,7,1 28800,N,8,1 28800,E,7,1 38400,N,8,1 38400,E,7,1 57600,N,8,1 57600,E,7,1 115200,N,8,1 115200,E,7,1 MINI/MICRO? Defines the type of printer.
REV ADJ2.5 P2 REV ADJ2.5 BOTH REV ADJ2.7 P1 REV ADJ2.7 P2 REV ADJ2.7 BOTH REV ADJ3 P1 REV ADJ3 P2 REV ADJ3 BOTH REV ADJ2.125 P1 REV ADJ2.125 P2 REV ADJ2.125 BTH REV ADJ3.25 P1 REV ADJ3.25 P2 REV ADJ3.25 BTH DUAL PATH PRINTER WITH RADJ paper guide set to 2.50” on path #2 DUAL PATH PRINTER WITH REV RADJ paper guide set to 2.50” on both paths DUAL & SINGLE PATH PRINTER WITH RADJ paper guide set to 2.70” DUAL PATH PRINTER WITH RADJ paper guide set to 2.
RIBBON - The printer will feed out one blank ticket. This mode is used for label stock to prevent peeling. PRINT INTENSITY? Controls the darkness of ticket print out. Here are the following choices: LIGHT MED LIGHT NORMAL MED DARK SHORT HEAD LIFE (factory default) SKI MODE? Enables the operator to set an unprintable area on the first .50” of a ticket. This is ideally used for label stock. Your choices are YES (Enabled) or NO (Disabled).
CUTTER TYPE? Defines the type of cutter the printer has. SILENT – This is the old Silent Cutter assembly. BOCA - improved, stepper motor driven cutter assembly. This feature is set at the factory and should not be changed. CUT SPEED? Defines the cut speed for a BOCA cutter type. This feature is set at the factory and should not be changed. ORIENTATION? Defines the orientation of the ticket layout. REVERSE will rotate ticket layout 180°.
INC REV COUNT? Enables the operator to move the position to the right (towards the ticket exit area). Print position value is in increments of .003” for 300dpi and .005” for 200dpi. Depressing CHOICES changes this value. This adjustment has a limited range and is set at the factory. DEC REV COUNT? Enables the operator to move the position to the left (towards the ticket entrance area). Print position value is in increments of .003” for 300dpi and .005” for 200dpi. Depressing CHOICES changes this value.
PRINTER STATUS SUPPLEMENT BI-DIRECTIONAL STATUS (for Serial, Ethernet, USB and Bluetooth) The Ghostwriter will transmit status information back to the host via pin 2 of the RS232 interface when switch 7 on sw2 is enabled.
LED STATUS PANEL SUPPLEMENT Some printers have an LED panel that is used to display the present status of the printer. The panel usually contains the following LED's: Ready, Data, Paper Jam and Check Stock. The LED will stay on as long as that status remains valid. Additional, error status conditions can be indicated by flashing or flickering the LED panel. The flashing LED's usually last for about 3 seconds and then the printer tries to resume normal operation.
SAMPLE BASIC PROGRAM FOR SENDING AND RECEIVING STATUS FROM PRINTER.
SHADING PATTERN SUPPLEMENT (Not available on 22/24/26) The ability to shade the ticket with different patterns is available on the 44 and 46 printer. There are around twenty patterns presently stored in the printer. More patterns will probably be added in the future. Also, we intend to allow the customer to download their own patterns. The following commands and examples demonstrate the SHADING function of the printer.
Sample foreground shading ticket produced by the following commands. SHADING TEST SHADING TEST SHADING TEST Sample background shading ticket produced by the following commands. SHADING TEST SHADING TEST SHADING TEST SHADING TEST You can shade an entire ticket by using the starting and ending row, column commands along with the shading command.
TEXT CENTERING SUPPLEMENT (New feature for 26/46 only) FGL Text Centering Command - The FGL centering command is based on the concept of a text field. The text field has a starting position and length as well as other FGL attributes that define the text formatting. The field length is provided as a parameter to the centering command () and specifies the field length in dots.
FLASH MEMORY EXPANSION SUPPLEMENT (NOT AVAILABLE ON 22/24/26 level) The 46 printer comes standard with 512KB of Flash memory (44 – 256KB). However, 46 (non-Lemur) can be ordered or upgraded with an additional 4MB of expansion Flash memory for a total of 4MB. A 44 can be ordered or upgraded with an additional 2MB of expansion Flash memory for a total of 2.25MB. A 46 Lemur comes with 4MB of expansion Flash memory already. The FGL42 printer comes standard with 128KB of Flash memory.
FONT SIZE SUPPLEMENT This section describes the different font sizes available on the Boca Printers and any restrictions pertaining to each. See the following pages for actual-size samples of most of the available font sizes. The samples are usually shown with character 33 (!) first, thru character 126. If a character can't be printed in a certain font size it will appear as a blank character. All font sizes are available in rotated and non-rotated modes unless indicated.
PRINTER DRIVER SUPPLEMENT There are multiple driver types that can be used with a Boca Systems printer. We supply printer drivers on our web site. Windows supplies printer drivers with the PC and some third party ticket vendors will supply a printer driver with their ticketing system. All of our drivers and those supplied by Windows will allow you to communicate through driver dependent applications like Word, Excel, etc.
• • • • • • Choose the correct driver based on the Make, Model and Head Size and click “Next” Click “Next” to replace existing driver (this screen may not appear) Enter Printer local Name and click on Yes or No to select Default and then click “Next” If the printer is to be used across a LAN click “Share Name” and enter the network Share Name and select “Next” Select “No” to printing a test page and click “Next” Select “Finish” General A printer driver translates the graphical information displayed in you
Apple/Mac Printer Drivers Driver Download To download the Boca Systems Mac printer drivers go to our web site, Printer Drivers, Apple/Mac and click on the boca_driver to save the MAC file on the PC. Next, double click on boca.pkg.zip to unzip the file. Boca.pkg will appear on your desktop. Be careful to select the proper print resolution (200, 300 or 600 dpi). Printer Driver Installation USB All instructions are based upon the use of the Intel-based Mac OS X 10.4.9.
Linux Printer Drivers Driver Download To download the Boca Systems Linux printer drivers go to our web site Printer Drivers, Linux and click on one of the driver files listed. The 32 bit files can be used with either intel or amd based computers. The 64 bit drivers must be targeted for the appropriate manufacturer’s hardware. The .deb files are intended for Ubuntu, Debian and most other Linux versions with the exception of Suse and Redhat which should use the .rpm files.
the page size and margins. In general, you should use the smallest margins which do not cause the data to wrap around to the opposite side of the ticket. Apple supports the following methods of defining page sizes: • Vendor (BOCA) Defined - We have pre-defined some common page (ticket) sizes which can be used with any Windows application. You must use a BOCA defined page size to define your document.
MAG PRINTERS NOTE: The , and commands should not be used with any Mag printers printers.
CPU COMMANDS COMMAND Definition write track 1 magnetics write track 2 magnetics write track 3 magnetics write track 4 magnetics start writing magnetics burst length Printer Response ACK or NAK after completion of encode The burst length is preset at the factory and should not require adjustment by the customer.
42/44/46 CONFIGURATION TEST TICKET SUPPLEMENT All 42/44/46 printers running version C and above can now print a configuration test ticket in addition to the standard test button ticket. The configuration data will print out according to the size and shape of your ticket. If all of the data will not fit on one ticket, then further tickets will be printed as needed.
TICKET TYPE COMMAND - Note: This function is set at the factory and should not be changed. This command sets the ticket type (opto configuration) of the printer. The values can range as shown below: 0 - Normal ticket 1 - ATM ticket 2 - Label ticket 3 - Special ticket STATUS ENABLED COMMAND - This command enables or disables status responses from the printer to the Host.
PATH TYPE COMMANDS - These commands are explained in the FGL programming guide. BUFFER MODE COMMANDS - These commands are explained in the FGL programming guide. CLEAR DOWNLOAD SPACE COMMAND – ESC c This command is explained in the FGL programming guide. DEFAULT SETTINGS COMMAND - Note: This function should only be used by an experienced user. This command returns the printer to its factory default settings.
BI-DIRECTIONAL PARALLEL MODE ENABLED/DISABLED COMMANDS - / Note: This function should only be used by an experienced user. These commands set the printer up for bi-directional parallel or non- bi-directional parallel communication. TEST TICKET TYPE COMMANDS - / These commands set the test ticket type that is printed off the test button.
2- sound buzzer every 15s. 3- sound buzzer every 30s. 4- sound buzzer every 45s. SHUFFLE MODE ENABLED/DISABLED COMMAND - / This feature is normally disabled with the exception of ATM style printers which have it enabled as the factory default setting. When enabled, shuffle mode causes the printer to move the ticket stock forward in small increments once every 15 minutes until the ticket reaches a predetermined limit.
This command adjusts the amount the printer reverses to start printing. The value range depends on the Magnetic Printer Style. For a Switch Style Printer it is 180 +/- 7. Otherwise, it is 70 +/- 7. INC/DEC BURST COUNT COMMAND – Note: This function should only be used by an experienced user and is only applicable to mag printers. This command sets the burst count for the burster. Before sending this command, the user must identify the ticket length value stored in the printer.
ETHERNET COMMANDS…………. For a complete description of the FGL Networking commands please refer to the ETHERNET INTERFACE ADDENDUM. ADDITIONAL ITEMS PRINTED ON THE CONFIGURATION TICKET MAY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: Firmware revision Common code revision Font name Serial number Control panel enabled Test button enabled Ticket length in dots Printing length in dots Printing width in dots Print head size Lptix (lines per ticket) Top offset Bottom offset Left offset Offsets enabled Ex.
CHANGING ETHERNET PARAMETERS SUPPLEMENT CONTROL PANEL CONFIGURATION: CHANGING 'ETHERNET' SETTING 1. Please follow these steps to change the ETHERNET setting on your Ethernet printer. 2. Depress both the MENU and CHOICES buttons while turning on the printer. Keep both buttons depressed until FACTORY MENU appears in the LCD window or the display starts scrolling through different topics. 3. Using the MENU button scroll down to the ETHERNET? topic and press the CHOICE button. 4.
CHANGING 'DEFAULT GATEWAY' ADDRESS Follow same procedure as 'Changing IP address' above but in step 3 scroll down to the DEFAULT GATEWAY topic. CHANGING 'SUBNET MASK' SETTING 1. Depress both the MENU and CHOICES buttons while turning on the printer. Keep both buttons depressed until FACTORY MENU appears in the LCD window or the display starts scrolling through different topics. 2. Using the MENU button scroll down to the Subnet Mask? topic and press the CHOICE button. 3.
ETHERNET INTERFACE ADDENDUM - REV F ETHERNET – Quick Installation Guide • • • • • • • Connect the printer to your network (the IP address will be automatically assigned by your DHCP server) Load tickets into the printer Wait one minute to allow assignment of IP address Print a test ticket to identify the printer's IP address Ping the printer Open your web browser and type the printer’s IP address to review its configuration If you experience any problems, please refer to the Ethernet Interface Addendum or
Web Browser (different Network number) · Change the computer’s IP address to communicate with the printer o Connect the printer directly to the Host using an Ethernet crossover cable. o Check Control Panel>Network Connections>Local Area Connections>Properties o Scroll down and highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) o Click properties. o Record the present settings on this screen before making any changes. o Click 'Use the following IP address'. Fill in the fields as follows: o IP address: 10.0.0.
SUPPORTED PROTOCOLS (must use default port values). While Boca does not support every Ethernet protocol, the printer supports a sufficient number of high level protocols to function effectively as a network printer. Below is a list of supported and non-supported features of the printer. More support may be added in the future as needed.
UNSUPPORTED INTERFACE APP Socket COMMENTS Raw TCP protocol data from Host to printer (port 9100) Status returned to Host as UDP data on Port 9101 RAW TCP OPERATION TCP communication is initiated by opening the connection (item 1) and terminated by closing the connection (item 4). Item 2 is necessary to print tickets. The printer can return status data (item 3) either in response to an external status request or as a result of a change in printer status.
FGL NETWORKING COMMANDS: ETHERNET MODE COMMAND - This command sets the Ethernet mode for the printer and is permanently stored in flash. This can also be set using the 'Factory Menu'. The values can range as shown below: 0 - NO - Ethernet Interface disabled 1 - YES - Ethernet Interface enabled (uses static IP address). 2 - Ethernet DIAGNOSTIC Mode - (prints all packets transmitted or received by the printer).
seeking to communicate with the printer. In this case, a reset (RST packet) will be sent to the open connection, and any previously stored data will be flushed. The default setting is 30 seconds. This command permanently stores the Retransmit Timeout value in flash. The value (#) can range from 1-65535 seconds. This command sets the total timeout period for a network port connection to remain open if there is a problem communicating between ports.
12 13 14 15 16 255.240.0.0 255.248.0.0 255.252.0.0 255.254.0.0 255.255.0.0 “ “ “ “ “ 29 30 31 32 255.255.255.248 255.255.255.252 255.255.255.254 (unusable) 255.255.255.255 (host-single address) Note: If a Subnet Mask and Gateway Address have been provided, the printer will attempt to obtain the Gateway’s MAC address (using the ARP protocol) during initialization of the printer.
Parameters -SServer > Specifies the name of the computer or print device running LPD. -PPrinter > Specifies the name of the printer for the desired queue. -l (Lowercase L) > Specifies that a detailed status should be given. Note: specifying the command without the lowercase L returns a generic printer ok status message if the printer is not busy (see below). However, the printer will not accept the command if it is busy, so nothing is usually returned until the printer is ready again. ex. lpq -S10.0.0.
Ethernet Trouble-shooting guide.... MAC conflicts: You must make sure there are no MAC address conflicts between multiple Boca Printers and any other devices on your network. Though it should never be the case, there was once an instance where two Boca Printers had the same MAC. The printer’s MAC address is based on its serial number. Changing the printer’s serial number might cause a problem. Packet loss: Determine if you are losing packets. To test for packet loss, ping the printer 1000 times.
You can obtain a free packet sniffer called 'Ethereal' from the following link- http://www.wireshark.org/ or http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=255. Note: In June 2006 Ethereal was renamed Wireshark due to trademark issues. All references below are valid for either Wireshark or Ethereal. Important Note: On a switched network, in order to see all the network traffic, both the Boca and computer should be connected to a non-switched hub.
Most network interfaces can also be put in "promiscuous" mode, in which they supply to the host all network packets they see. Ethereal will try to put the interface on which it's capturing into promiscuous mode unless the "Capture packets in promiscuous mode" option is turned off in the "Capture Options" dialog box, and Tethereal will try to put the interface on which it's capturing into promiscuous mode unless the -p option was specified.
Create a Standard TCP/IP port using raw protocol and install a Boca Systems printer driver. Windows 7 operating system Printer Drivers If the intent is to install the Boca Systems Ethernet printer with a Boca Systems printer driver, please install the drivers onto the PC before proceeding with the steps outlined below. If needed click on the link below to download and save the self extracting executable file on the local PC at perhaps c:\boca. Once saved, double click on the file to unzip and run it.
Select “Create a new port:” and choose type as “Standard TCP/IP Port”. Click “Next”. Enter the printers IP address. In this example 10.0.2.32 was entered as “Hostname or IP address”. The “Port Name” field is automatically filled in with the same IP address. Other text can be added or substituted for the “Port Name” if desired. Click “Next”.
The PC starts looking for the printer (above) and then displays the second screen below. The Boca Systems TCP/IP Device Type default settings are same as the “Generic Network Card” settings as shown here. So, just select “Standard - Generic Network Card” as shown on the window below.
Click “Next” and the PC will display the screen below while it finishes setting up the comunication for the printer. Once the screen below appears, select “Boca” as the manufacturer and then the appropriate version of printer driver. In this example an FGL 26/46 300 DPI print is being used.
Click “Next” and the PC will display the screen below. Select “Use the driver that is currently installed (recommended)”. Click “Next” and the PC will display the screen below with the Printer Name displayed. Other text can be added or substituted for the “Printer Name” if desired. In this example “Ethernet” was added to distinguish it from other printers already installed.
Click “Next” and the PC will display the screen below. In this example the printer is not shared. Click “Next” to reach the final install screen. Choose this as the default printer (or not). It is always recommended that a test page is printed by pressing the “Print a test page” button. Finally click “Finish”.
Print Queue showing the test page printing 97
Installation of port monitors instructions Windows 2000 & XP Note: Please make sure you have either the HP LaserJet llP Plus Print driver or the appropriate Boca FGL Print driver installed before continuing with these instructions (see website for FGL driver). Installing a Standard TCP/IP port using Raw protocol on Windows 2000 (preferred method). 1. Open the Control Panel through the Start Menu and open Printers. 2. Double click Add Printer. 3. Click Next. 4.
.The LPR port is best suited to servers that need to communicate with host computers such as UNIX or VAX machines by way of RFC 1179. .For computers that need to submit print jobs to host computers, the standard TCP/IP port (see above) should be used in most cases. .The LPR port only allows limited printer status to be reported to the Host. A generic error condition is reported when something goes wrong like a paper jam or paper out.
REMOTE MANAGEMENT ADDENDUM (Implemented on A46 boards) Remote management is provided on all printers with Ethernet capability, allowing remote control and monitoring of the printer using the internal Web Server and E-mail Service. Basic printer status, including a software controlled Tickets Low status, can be viewed on user accessible web pages. REAL-TIME STATUS WEBPAGE The Web Menu is displayed by entering the IP address of the printer into a Web Browser.
SAMPLE SCREENSHOTS: Boca Printer Configuration Webpage Screenshot: 101
Boca Printer Real-time Status Webpage Screenshot: 102
Boca Printer Email Settings Webpage Screenshot: Note: Links to navigate between web pages appear on the left side of each page.
TICKETS LOW FUNCTION This feature allows the customer to enter the amount of tickets loaded (Tickets Remaining Count) and then select the tickets low trigger point (Tickets Low Count). When the number of tickets remaining reaches the trigger point a Tickets Low Status byte (15) will be sent to the Host. This status will be sent once during normal operation.
MEMORY INVENTORY COMMAND SUPPLEMENT MEMORY INVENTORY COMMANDS - & The & commands causes the printer to output data back to the PC in a readable format. This data can be read by an application and displayed. Hyper Terminal was used for the example displayed below. These commands produce a list of the downloaded logos, resident fonts, and downloaded soft fonts stored in the printer’s memory.
RESIDENT AND DOWNLOADED TRUETYPE FONT INVENTORY...
RFID ADDENDUM - REV F Introduction to RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) RFID tags consist of an integrated circuit (IC) attached to an antenna—typically printed or etched conductors on a thin plastic sheet. Data is stored on the IC and transmitted through the antenna. RFID tags are either passive (no battery) or active (self-powered by a battery). Data transmission speed and range depend on the frequency used, antenna size, power output, and interference.
The encoding and verification process, which can take milliseconds to seconds depending on the amount of data to be stored in the RFID tag, makes smart ticket throughput somewhat slower than comparable bar code printers. In practice, this slower speed has not been a drawback because smart tickets generally are not used for high-volume, high-throughput applications. The tags used in smart tickets are made from flexible material that does not damage the print head.
• Philips MIFARE Ultralight (ISO 14443A) – 13.56MHz The latest technology development from Philips Semiconductors, MIFARE® Ultralight, is particularly suited for applications requiring low-cost, contactless ticketing solutions. Typical applications include single trip tickets in public transport systems, loyalty cards or event tickets for exhibitions, stadiums and leisure parks.
• Philips MIFARE 1K (ISO 14443A) – 13.56MHz The MIFARE-1K classic family is the pioneer and front runner in contactless smart card ICs operating in the 13.56 MHz frequency range with read/write capability. The MIFARE® standard IC, launched in 1995, was the first product which could be fitted into a ISO contactless smart card, and with its slim coil allowed very high volume production.
Sector Memory segment of the MIFARE 1K Card. Each segment consists of 4 blocks and has individual keys and access conditions. Security Key 6 byte structure assigned to each sector of the card. Transport Key Key as stored after delivery from the manufacturer.(for example A0A1A2A3A4A5, B0B1B2B3B4B5 or FFFFFFFFFFFF) Block 16 byte memory segment of the MIFARE 1K card. Value 4 byte (unsigned long) variable stored in a special format in a block or page.
• Value functions Inc, Dec, Transfer and Restore are not supported by the reader. Programming Tickets RFID extensions have been added to the FGL programming language allowing users to program the tag data with the same ease as defining the data for a bar code ticket or label. RFID commands can be used in conjunction with any standard FGL programming command. The RFID commands can be used to read the unique ID number of each ticket, read/write tag data and send that data to the Host.
This command can be sent by the Host after receiving a NAK (15H) to determine the cause of the error. The printer sends back a single byte ASCII status indicating the status. A list of the status codes and errors are shown at the end. Looking at the list you will see that different errors can have the same code. For example, the printer will return a generic ‘C’ code for all command errors but displays the specific error message on the LCD display. Once a NAK has been sent the ticket is considered ‘Void’.
Important Note: locking the data prevents further write access to that data and is irreversible. The data can still be read by the Host. All data is locked on a block wide (4 byte) basis. Make sure you have written all the data you want to a block before locking it. The data bytes are the numbers or characters you want to store on the RF card. The data stream is terminated by a carriage return or a Boca command starting delimiter character.
Ex: change key B value to B0,B1,B2,B3,B4,B5 before reading 16 bytes from block 2. PERMANENT RF KEY COMMAND - This command is the same as the uppercase command except it is permanently stored in flash. This command should only be sent once to configure the printer. If changing key A frequently, use the uppercase command. Note: only key A value can be permanently stored using this command.
This command permanently stores the retry value (#) in flash. The value (#) can range from 1-5. The default value is 2. This is the number of times the printer will retry performing the requested RFID operation before printing a ‘Void’ ticket. RFID TIMEOUT COMMAND - This command permanently stores the timeout value (#) in flash. The value (#) can range from 1-256ms. The default value is 60ms.
RFID Error Messages STATUS CODE - LCD Error Message A – NO ERRORS C - NON ASCII CHAR C - BAD CRC C - FLAGS DON’T MATCH C - UNKNOWN COMMAND C - BAD START BLK C - BAD NUM BLKS C - BAD MSG LEN R - READ TAG FAIL S – SELECT TAG FAILED T - CARD TIMEOUT W– WRITE TAG FAIL Z - RFID ENCODER ERR - Explanation - RFID operation(s) completed OK. Non-ASCII character in request. Bad CRC. Flags don’t match command or tag type. Unknown command. Invalid Starting block. Invalid Number of blocks.
WiFi ADDENDUM Configure WiFi Connection To use the wireless capabilities in FGL and PCL 26/46 model printers equipped with a wireless interface, it will first be necessary to setup the printer with information and security settings that match the wireless settings of the local wireless server/router. To configure the printer with the correct security settings, it is necessary to acquire these settings directly from the wireless server/router or see your network administrator.
Configure WiFi Connection Step by Step Connect the Boca printer to your PC using one of the hardwired interface connections (Serial, USB or parallel), run the “Customer” program and select the interface connection configured above. Using the Boca Systems Customer Interface tool select the “Configure WiFi Connection” from the Printer Operations drop down menu. The first prompt “Printer WiFi” turns on/off the wireless Ethernet capability in the printer itself.
WEP Security Mode – Allows the user to communicate through the network using WEP wireless encryption. With WEP one can select 64 bit or 128 bit encryption. When the security encryption mode is chosen it will be required to enter the “Pass Phrase” for the local wireless network. Some networks also enforce the use of a default transmit key. If needed select one, else leave it set to “1”. Next the four security key values will have to be entered to match those of the local network.
BLUETOOTH ADDENDUM Boca now offers Bluetooth capable printers. These printers contain a special Bluetooth I/O board as well as new firmware to communicate with the board. The Bluetooth Interface can be enabled using the Control Panel, the Web Menu or an FGL command. Note: this feature would normally be enabled at the factory for customers requesting a Bluetooth printer. CONTROL PANEL CONFIGURATION: 1. Please follow these steps to enable the Bluetooth interface on your printer. 2.
Generic Access Profile (GAP)--Defines how two Bluetooth devices discover and establish communications between each other. The GAP is the "mother" of all profiles, as it defines the modes and procedures that all the other profiles use. Service Discovery Application Profile (SDAP)--Allows Bluetooth devices to query the services available on other Bluetooth devices. Serial Port Profile--Defines how two Bluetooth devices can communicate with each other by using virtual serial ports.
Figure 2. A Boca printer should show up as a printer device with a name of BocaPrinter ######, where # is the 6 digit serial number of the printer (Figure 3). Figure 3. Select the device you want to connect to and then press Connect. You should get a message near the Bluetooth Icon asking for a Pin Code (Figure 4). Figure 4. Click to get the next screen. You will be asked for a PIN code in order to pair your computer with the printer. The PIN is 0000.
Figure 5. The printer should now be paired. It will now show up in the list under ‘Bluetooth Serial Port’ Devices as shown in Figure 6. Figure 6. Select it and then the printer will be connected. The software connects to the Boca using COM1 and a virtual COM port (Figure 7). Figure 7. Once connected, it will have a check mark next to it in the Device list (see Figure 8). Notice The Blue Icon has changed color.
Figure 8. Double-Clicking ‘MY Bluetooth Places’ should bring up a Window (Figure 9) that shows the connection. Notice the connection is on Virtual Com Port 6 in this case. Record this port number and use it in place of the standard COM1 or COM2 that your software normally uses to communicate with the printer. You can also find the virtual port number under the Bluetooth Properties tab (Figure 10).
Figure 10.
USB DRIVER ADDENDUM USB Printer/HID Device Type There are two approved ways to install a Boca Systems USB printer. The class 7 printer drivers Boca Systems provides are Microsoft certified on Win2000, XP, Win2003 server, Vista and Win7. The 26/46 model printers have the ability to operate as a USB Class 7 device (Printer Mode) or a USB Class 3 device (HID Mode). This does not apply to all 22/42 & most 24/44 model USB printers. These older printers operate as a USB Class 7 device (Printer Mode) only. 1.
APPENDIX A - SAMPLE BASIC PROGRAM FOR 200 DPI PRINT HEAD 1 CLS:PRINT:PRINT "WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING PORTS IS YOUR PRINTER CONNECTED TO?" 2 PRINT:PRINT "1=LPT1:":PRINT "2=LPT2:":PRINT "3=COM1:":PRINT "4=COM2:" 3 PRINT:INPUT "ENTER NUMBER 1-4";PN$:PN=VAL(PN$) 4 IF PN < 1 OR PN > 4 THEN CLS:GOTO 1 5 ON PN GOTO 6,7,8,9 6 OPEN "LPT1:" AS #1:WIDTH #1,255:GOTO 10 7 OPEN "LPT2:" AS #1:WIDTH #1,255:GOTO 10 8 OPEN "COM1:9600,N,8,1,RS,DS60000" AS #1:GOTO 10 9 OPEN "COM2:9600,N,8,1,RS,DS60000" AS #1:GOTO 10 10 CLS 20 PR
APPENDIX B - GHOSTWRITER COMMANDS - Quick Reference Chart • • ROW/COLUMN COMMAND - ROTATION COMMAND - No rotation Rotate right (+90) Rotate upside down (+180) Rotate left (+270 or - 90) • • HEIGHT/WIDTH COMMAND - FONT SIZE COMMAND - Font1 characters (5x7) Font2 characters (8x16) OCRB (17x31) OCRA (5x9) large OCRB (30x52) OCRA (15x29) Courier (20x40)(20x33) small OCRB (13x20) Prestige (25x41) Script (25x49) Orato
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • STATUS REQUEST - PROM TYPE AND TICKET COUNT STATUS REQUEST - DELAYED STATUS - or NO STATUS - or ASCII STATUS - or DOWNLOAD BYTES AVAILABLE STATUS - PARTIAL ASCII STATUS - or DIRTY BYTES TOTAL STATUS CLEAR PERMANENT STATUS COMMAND - PRINT DOWNLOADABLE FONT - PRINT DOWNLOADABLE LOGO - PRINT LOGO - STAR
• • LOW VOLTAGE ENABLE - TOP ADJUSTMENT COMMAND - The following commands are NOT AVAILABLE on 22/44 printers • SCALE DOWN - • SHADE PATTERN IN BACKGROUND - • SHADE PATTERN IN FOREGROUND - • SHADE PATTERN # - • ENABLE SHADING - • DISABLE SHADING - • PCX FILE BEING SENT COMMAND - • NO CUT MODE - For use with FGL Driver only (Windows Only). • CUT MODE - For use with FGL Driver only (Windows Only).
APPENDIX C - ASCII CHARACTER SET CHAR NUL SOH STX ETX EOT ENQ ACK BEL BS HT LF VT FF CR SO SI DLE DC1 DC2 DC3 DC4 NAK SYN ETB CAN EM SUB ESC FS GS RS US SP ! " # $ % & ' ( ) * DEC 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 HEX 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 A B C D E F 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 1A 1B 1C 1D 1E 1F 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 2A CHAR + .
APPENDIX D – Special Character Set 133
200 DPI FONT SAMPLES 134
Filnamn: PROGRAMMING GUIDE (22_42, 24_44, 26_46) Katalog: C:\Users\mikmek\Dropbox\Mikmek Mika Enterprise AB\Avtal Mall: C:\Users\mikmek\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Mallar\Normal.
