Epson MX-80 User Manual page 41

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Introduction to Graphics

OK. What's the Bottom Line?

The bottom line is — to print the same graphics characters on paper as seen on

the screen thru use of LPRINT C H R $ ( # # # ) , we have to add 32 to the regular

Model I graphics ASCII code number. The new E P S O N graphics ASCII

codes for printing on paper are between 160-223. See Appendix G.

OK, What Are My Options?

There are 3 options:

1. Accept the fact that we have to add 32 and stop fighting it.

2. Move internal switch 2-4 to the ON position. This deliberately switches

the graphics down 32 ASCII spaces, so the Printer graphics have the same

ASCII numbers as Model I video screen.

That might sound good, but it's really a poor option. It replaces the more

versatile control codes that usually reside there and eliminates many of

the really fine features the MX-80 offers.

3. Print the desired graphics display on the screen, then " d u m p " the screen's

contents to paper. Hmmm. It has its points. What are the trade-offs?

On the plus side, anything shown on the Model I screen can be " d u m p e d "

to paper. On the negative side, the screen can't display compressed charac-

ters, or other non-printing control characters. They have to be set up prior

to the "screen dump".

Exercising the Options

We've already discussed option 1 and learned the reasons behind it. It's a good

option and will probably be used for most serious programming.

Option 2 is a loser since it robs us of the Printer's power. It does work fine how-

ever for mundane LPRINTing and LLISTing.

Option 3 is worth some study. The "screen d u m p " approach has real value, and

we don't have to be highly skilled to use it. The necessary software program is

coming up next.