User Guide

Formatter system
The formatter is involved in the following procedures:
■ Controlling the PowerSave/Sleep mode
■ Receiving and processing print data from the various printer I/Os
■ Monitoring control-panel functions and relaying printer-status information (through the control
panel and the bidirectional I/O)
■ Developing and coordinating data placement and timing with the dc controller PCA
■ Storing font information
■ Communicating with the host computer through the bidirectional interface
The formatter receives a print job from 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 two EIO cards,
additional memory DIMMs, the hard-disk accessory, and the optional HP Fast Infrared Receiver.
PowerSave (LJ 4200/4200L/4300) or Sleep (LJ 4250/4350) Mode
This feature on the configuration menu conserves power after the printer has been idle for a specific
period of time. When the printer is in PowerSave or Sleep mode, the control-panel backlight is turned
off, but the printer retains all printer settings, downloaded fonts, and macros. The default setting is
POWERSAVE=ON, or SLEEP=ON, with a 30-minute idle time. PowerSave/Sleep can also be turned
off from the resets menu on the control panel.
The printer exits PowerSave or Sleep mode and enters the warm-up cycle when any of the following
occurs:
■ A print job, valid data, or a PML or PJL command is received at the parallel port, serial port, or
EIO card.
■ A control panel key is pressed.
■ The top cover is opened.
■ A tray is opened.
■ The engine-test button is pressed.
NOTE Printer error messages override the PowerSave or Sleep message. The printer enters
PowerSave or Sleep mode at the appropriate time, but the error message continues to
appear.
Formatter system 161