Formatter-control system
The formatter performs the following functions:
●
Controlling sleep mode
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Receiving and processing print data from the various product interfaces
●
Monitoring control panel functions and relaying product status information (through the control
panel and the network or bi-directional interface)
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Developing and coordinating data placement and timing with the DC controller PCA
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Storing font information
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Communicating with the host computer through the network or the bidirectional interface
The formatter receives a print job from the network or 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.
Formatter hardware
The formatter system includes the following components.
Table 1-2 Formatter hardware components
Component Function
Microprocessor Stores fonts and microprocessor control programs.
RAM Stores printing and font information and temporarily stores print-image data before it sent to
the print engine. RAM data is lost when the product is turned off.
NOTE: Upgrading RAM improves graphic-intense printing operations, but does not
increase the I/O buffer space or the printing speed.
NVRAM Stores configuration information. NVRAM is saved when the product is turned off.
USB Sends and receives data through USB type B interface connector (connected to the host
computer).
Hard disk drive (HDD)
Solid state module (SSM)
The firmware is contained in the HDD or SSD. A remote firmware upgrade process is used to
overwrite and upgrade the firmware on the HDD or SSM.
NOTE: The SSM is for the M855dn model only.
Real time clock This clock is used for the Wake-up time feature. It includes a battery to supply power when
the product is turned off.
HP Jetdirect Inside (JDI) JDI is an Ethernet interface that is part of the formatter.
Sleep mode
NOTE: In the General Settings menu (a submenu of the Administration menu), this item is termed
Sleep Timer Settings.
This feature conserves power after the product has been idle for an adjustable period of time. When
the product is in Sleep Mode, the control panel backlight is turned off, but the product retains all
4 Chapter 1 Theory of operation ENWW
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