5-2 Packet Reference Manual
Overview of Bitmapped Images
A printed image is formed through a series of dots. Each square on the
grid below represents a dot on the printhead. The graphic image is
created by blackening dots in a specific pattern. You can print varying
shades of gray according to the concentration of dots on the image.
When the dots are printed together, the end result is a graphic image.
Determining a Method
You can use one of two methods to map out your graphic image:
Hex Method
The dot sequences are segmented into binary numbers and then
converted to hex numbers. A graphic using gray-scaling, several slanted
lines, or several vertical lines typically translates more efficiently with hex
representation.
Run Length
Encoding Method
The dot sequences are segmented into black and white strings within a
row. The total count of each white string is converted to a lower-case
letter, corresponding to numeric value. The total count of each black
string is converted to an uppercase letter, corresponding to numeric
value. This method can reduce imaging time for graphics that contain
repetitive rows of dots. A graphic with horizontal lines or very few white-
to-black borders typically translates more efficiently with run length
encoding.
The most efficient encoding method depends on how complicated your graphic image is and
whether or not imaging time is a concern. You may want to experiment with both encoding
methods to get optimal performance.
Designing Compliance Labels
To use a graphic packet to design your compliance label:
1. Decide which fields are fixed (constant text, lines, boxes) and which fields are variable
(addresses and shipping information).
2. Design your compliance label as you would any other format.
Designing Bitmapped Images
Once you determine the encoding method to use, you can begin
mapping out your graphic image.
Note: The image that you map must be an upside down mirror
image of the final result.
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