Formatter system
The formatter coordinates the major systems. It is responsible for the following:
● Receiving and processing print data from the printer interface (from the computer)
● 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 parallel interface or the Universal Serial Bus (USB)
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 to
the laser system. 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 uses an embedded Coldfire V4 microprocessor operating at 133 MHz.
RAM
● One bank of nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM) stores parameters.
● Dynamic random access memory (DRAM) provides temporary storage of the product
program code and print data.
● The HP LaserJet 1010 and 1012 have 8 MB of RAM.
● The HP LaserJet 1015 has 16 MB of RAM.
Universal Serial Bus interface
The formatter receives incoming data through the USB interface. This interface provides
high-speed, two-way communication between the product and the host, allowing applications
on the host computer to change product settings and monitor product status. The USB
interface is compatible with the USB 2.0 specification.
Parallel interface (HP LaserJet 1015 only)
If the parallel interface on the HP LaserJet 1015 is used, the formatter receives incoming
data through bidirectional ECP. Like the USB interface, the parallel interface supports high-
speed, two-way communication between the product and the host, so applications on the
host computer can change product settings and monitor product status. Use an IEEE 1284-
compliant parallel cable.
Control panel
The control panel consists of:
● Three status lights.
● Go and Cancel Job buttons
ENWW Formatter system 37
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