Programming instructions

125
Intermec Fingerprint 6.13 – Programmer's Guide
ACTLEN
This function returns the approximate length in dots of most
recently executed paper feed operation. It can for example be used
to determine the length of the labels before printing a list, so the list
can be divided into portions that fit the labels.
Example:
10 FORMFEED
20 PRINT ACTLEN
RUN
The term “Batch Printing” means the process of printing several
labels without stopping the paper feed motor between labels. The
labels may be exact copies or differ more or less in appearance.
For batch printing, the most critical factor is the time required to
process the print image, as specified by the program, into a bitmap
pattern and store it in the image buffer. The image buffer compen-
sates for differences between processing time and printing time. If
the label layout is too large as to be stored in its entity in the image
buffer, the layout will be divided into a number of segments across
the paper feed direction, that will be processed one after the other
and downloaded to the image buffer. As the buffer is emptied by
printing, a new segment can be processed and downloaded.
A large image buffer takes more time to process and fill, which may
delay the start of the printing, whereas a small image buffer may be
emptied before a new segment has been processed and down-
loaded. The print speed is also important. Obviously, the faster a
label is printed, the faster next segment or label must be processed.
There are a number of instructions that facilitate batch printing:
FIELDNO Divides the program into portions that can be
cleared individually.
CLL Clears part or all of the image buffer.
OPTIMIZE ON Enables optimizing. Three optimizing strat-
egies are available.
OPTIMIZE OFF Disables optimizing.
When using batch printing, consider this:
• The program must be written as to allow batch printing.
• In case of small differences between labels, make use of CLL and
FIELDNO instructions and write the program so the variable data
are processed last.
• Always use the OPTIMIZE "BATCH" ON strategy.
• Increase or decrease the size of the image buffer as to obtain a
smooth flow of data to the printhead.
11. PRINTING CONTROL, cont'd.
Continued!
4. Length of Last Feed
Operation
5. Batch Printing