Formatter system
The formatter is responsible for the following procedures:
■ Controlling Sleep mode
■ Receiving and processing print data from the various MFP interfaces
■ Monitoring control-panel functions and relaying MFP-status information (through the control
panel and the network or the bidirectional interface)
■ Developing and coordinating data placement and timing with the dc controller PCA
■ Storing font information
■ Communicating with the host computer through the network or the bidirectional interface
The formatter receives a print job from the network or the bidirectional interface and separates it into
image information and instructions that control the printing process. The dc controller PCA
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 also provides the electrical interface and mounting locations for one EIO card, three
memory DIMMs, two additional flash memory cards (one slot is reserved for the firmware), the hard-
disk accessory, and the optional analog fax accessory.
Sleep mode
This feature conserves power after the MFP has been idle for an adjustable period of time. When the
MFP is in Sleep mode, the control-panel backlight is turned off, but the MFP retains all settings,
downloaded fonts, and macros. The default setting is for Sleep mode to be enabled, and the MFP
enters the Sleep mode after a 90-minute idle time. Sleep mode can also be turned off from the
RESET menu on the control panel.
The MFP exits Sleep mode and enters the warm-up cycle when any of the following events occurs:
■ A print job, valid data, or a PML or PJL command is received
■ A control-panel button is pressed or you touch the touchscreen
■ The top cover is opened
■ A paper tray is opened
■ The engine-test switch is pressed
NOTE MFP error messages override the Sleep message. The MFP enters Sleep mode at
the appropriate time, but the error message continues to appear.
Resolution Enhancement technology (REt)
The formatter contains circuitry for Resolution Enhancement technology (REt), which modifies the
standard video dot data on its way to the dc controller PCA to produce “smoothed” line edges. The
REt can be turned on or off from the control panel or from some software programs. The default
setting is medium.
80 5 Theory of operation
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