Formatter System The Formatter PCA is responsible for the following: G Controlling the power save mode. G Receiving and processing print data from the various printer interfaces. G Monitoring Control Panel inputs and relaying printer status information (through the Control Panel and the bidirectional I/O). G Developing and coordinating data placement and timing with the print engine. G Storing font information. G Communicating with the host computer through the bidirectional Interface. The Formatter PCA receives a print job from the bidirectional parallel port (IEEE 1284) and separates it into image information and instructions which control the printing process.
The DC Controller synchronizes the Image Formation System with the Paper Input and Output Systems, and then signals the Formatter to send the print image data. The Formatter sends the print image data (dots) in the form of a VIDEO signal to start the printing process. The Formatter PCA also provides the electrical interface and mounting locations for three EIO cards, additional memory DIMMs, the Disk Accessory, the 8-bin Mailbox/5-bin Mailbox with Stapler, the 7-bin Tabletop Mailbox, and the 2 x 500-sheet Input Tray (Trays 4 and 5).
Power Save This user-adjustable feature (Configuration Menu) conserves power by shutting down the fuser and exhaust fans after the printer has been idle for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1, 2, or 3 hours. The printer retains all printer settings, downloaded fonts, and macros while in power save mode. The default setting is power save on, with a 1-hour idle time. (Power save can also be turned off from the control panel.) The printer exits power save mode and enters the warm-up cycle when any of the following occurs: • A print job, valid data, or a PML or PJL command is received at the parallel port or an EIO card. • A Control Panel key is pressed.
• Any printer door (except the front access door) is opened and then closed. 96 Chapter 5 Functional Overview C4085-91087