HP PCL/PJL reference - Printer Job Language Technical Reference Manual

EN Introduction to PJL 1-3
The Benefits of PJL
Listed below are some of the benefits PJL provides:
• Programmatic printer language switching. PJL provides
fully reliable switching between printer languages, such as
PCL, Epson, IBM ProPrinter, and PostScript, directly from
within applications.
• Printer status readback. Printer model information,
configuration, printer feature settings, and other printer status
information can be obtained using PJL.
• Programmatic front panel control. Control panel settings,
including control panel messages, can be changed remotely.
• Ease of use. All PJL commands except the Universal Exit
Language (UEL) command consist of printable characters and
plain-English words or abbreviated words. Learning to use PJL
can be accomplished by reading the first three chapters of this
manual and following the examples provided in the text.
• Better spooler control. PJL allows spoolers improved printer
management, especially in a network environment.
Who Should Use PJL?
PJL is designed to be used by experienced programmers, such as
software application developers and technical support personnel.
Although PJL is not complicated, it is a powerful tool, and should be
used only by experienced users who can create jobs that cause no
adverse effects on other jobs in a shared environment. Applications
containing PJL commands used as described in this manual provide
users with smooth transitions between print jobs. Conversely,
improperly used PJL commands can create problems in multi-user
printing environments.