Directly Connected ImageWriter LQ Problem with OPEN "LPT1: " (43744)
The information in this article applies to:
- Microsoft QuickBASIC Compiler for the Apple Macintosh 1.0
This article was previously published under Q43744 SUMMARY
Output to an Apple ImageWriter LQ printer may give problems if it is
directly connected and you output to it using the "LPT1:" or
"LPT1:PROMPT" device name from your Microsoft QuickBASIC program. The
problems do not occur when sending output to the ImageWriter LQ
printer over the AppleTalk Network.
The LPT1: device is expecting to communicate with a device at 9600
baud. The ImageWriter LQ communicates at a rate of 19,200 baud. To
communicate with a directly connected ImageWriter LQ printer from your
QuickBASIC program, you must connect the printer to the communications
port and use the OPEN "COM1:" statement instead. Output can then be
sent with the PRINT#n or WRITE#n statement.
MORE INFORMATION
The major drawback with output to COM1: is that the WINDOW OUTPUT #n
statement (for redirecting graphics to the printer) is not supported
to the COM1: device. Your program must send the proper Apple
ImageWriter printer control codes to change the font and size of
printed text. The ImageWriter's control characters invoke only certain
character-mode fonts, such as Elite and Pica, which don't look like
Macintosh graphics-mode fonts. Your program must also send a carriage
return and linefeed character sequence at the end of each line.
If the ImageWriter LQ still prints strange characters using the method
described above, check the dip switch settings for the printer.
Specifically, check the fourth dip switch on the second bank of
switches. It should be in the UP position. Check your ImageWriter LQ
user's manual for the location of these switches.
| Modification Type: | Minor | Last Reviewed: | 1/8/2003 |
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| Keywords: | KB43744 |
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