Macro questions

[jknt]

I've created a logo macro using the HPiii print driver and word. The macro downloads to the printer OK using a "C:copy xxxxx.prn lpt1" and I can execute and call the macro (similar method as above) by building a .prn file with "esc fNy2X" or "esc fNy3X" (where N is the macro number). The problem I have is that when I build and execute a .prn with "esc fNy4X" I would expect the macro to run every for every print job until I issue an "esc fNy5X". However, the printer doesn't print the macro, furthermore, the printer will not print anything until I force page output by pressing the page eject/ready button at which time I'll get the document I was trying to print but no overlay.

I have an HP LJ1300 with the HP LaserJet 1300 PCL 5e driver installed running on an XP pro sp2 machine.

I've downloaded and read the HP pcl/pjl 5 reference set when I first started this process. I've looked at the pcl postings on this site and I think I'm on the right track since I can execute and call the macro. I'm just stumped as to the reason why the automatic overlay function won't work.

I will appreciate any thoughts or suggestions as to what I may be missing, or an alternate method to accomplish an automatic overlay.

Thanks
Jim K

 

[jlasman]

I can only assume that something is resetting the overlay enable or is maybe deleting the macro itself.

Try declaring the macro as permanent...

<esc>&fNy10X

That should be the last thing in the macro file.

Does the macro have an absolute X,Y positioning command within? It is required for an overlay.

Make sure you do a binary copy...

copy /b printfile lpt1:


Jim Asman

 

[jknt]

Jim,
Thanks for getting back so quickly.

I've tried your suggestions, same problem exists.

Regarding absolute positioning, If I read the manual correctly then absolute positioning would look like ".*p543X" and relative positioning would be ".*p+128X"

I have only absolute positioning in the macro.

Thanks again for the help.
Jim K

 

[jlasman]

If you issue ...

<esc>&f25y4X

The printer will automattically run macro 25 on every PAGE until a disable macro command is received OR a printer reset <esc>E is received. Thus, overlays do NOT persist from one job to the other.

If you want to send me the pertinant files, I will have a look at them.

jlasman at telus dot net

Jim Asman