Radio Shack TRS-80 PTC-64

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Summary

Service Policy

Limited Warranty Terms and Conditions

Introduction to the PTC-64 Printer Controller

Description of the PTC-64 Printer Controller

Front Panel Controls and Indicators

Details POWER, STATUS, and FAULT lamps, and the CLEAR, COPY, PAUSE keys on the PTC-64's front panel.

Front Panel Operational Functions

Explains how to activate Control Sequences ON/OFF and perform the Self-Test using front panel keys.

Rear Panel Connectivity

Identifies the AC Power Jack, Computer Input Connector, and Printer Output Connector on the rear of the unit.

Setting Up the PTC-64 Printer Controller

Setup Precautions and Connection Procedure

Provides advice on placement and details the steps to connect the PTC-64 to a computer and printer.

Power Up Sequence

Describes the power-on sequence for the PTC-64 and its initial system interaction.

Buffer Verification and Self-Test

Details the automatic Buffer Verification Test and the manual Self-Test procedure for system diagnostics.

Using the PTC-64 Printer Controller

General Operation Steps

Details the sequential steps for performing printing operations with the PTC-64.

Operational Hints and Tips

Provides advice on buffer capacity, multiple copies, and data retention.

PTC-64 Control Sequences

Basic Control Sequences

Lists and explains fundamental control sequences like BEEPER, CLEAR, COPY, DOWNLOAD, IGNORE, and PAUSE.

Advanced Control Sequences

Describes advanced sequences for REDEFINE Special Character and TRANSLATE Character Mode.

Appendix A: Special Character Functions

Default Special Characters

Lists the 16 default special characters available upon power-up and their selection method.

Redefining Custom Special Characters

Explains the procedure to redefine default characters or create new symbols using dot matrix definitions.

Appendix B: Using PTC-64 with Applications

Scripsit Integration for Special Characters

Details how to define PTC-64 special characters within the Scripsit application's control codes.

Scripsit Integration for PTC-64 Functions

Demonstrates using PTC-64 functions like PAUSE via Scripsit control codes.

Appendix C: Downloading Special Drivers

Downloading Drivers: Procedure and Format

Outlines the process for downloading custom driver programs and the required file format.

Program File Block Structure

Explains the structure of program files, including data, comment, and trailer blocks.

Writing Custom Printer Drivers

Provides low-level information on Z-80 interrupts and port control for driver development.

I;O Port Mapping and Signals

Port 0 and Port 1 Mapping

Details the mapping of data (Port 0) and status/control (Port 1) I/O ports for computer communication.

NMI Timing and Service Routine

Covers the NMI timing diagram and provides an example of a basic NMI service routine for handling data.

Appendix D: Character Redefinition Worksheet

Appendix E: Specifications and Interface

Physical and Environmental Specifications

Lists the weight, dimensions, and operating temperature/humidity range of the PTC-64.

Parallel Interface Pin-Outs and Signals

Details the pin assignments and signal functions for the parallel interface connector connecting to a printer.

Parallel Interface Connector Arrangement

Provides the pin arrangement and signal names for the parallel interface connector connecting to a computer.