AN INTRODUCTION TO HP-GL/2 GRAPHICS



WHAT IS HP-GL/2?

     HP-GL/2 is a vector graphics language that essentially
     turns your printer into a plotter. Vector graphics uses
     less memory than raster graphics, when being stored, as
     well as having a more efficient Input/Output transfer
     of large images when printing, (it will print faster).
     When printing  in HP-GL/2, the printer will define
     points "a" and "b" then draw a line between them, in
     raster the printer defines every point between point
     "a" and point "b".


HP-GL/2 HISTORY

     HP-GL/2 was added to the PCL language in PCL Level 5,
     for LaserJet III family printers and is supported in
     LaserJet 4 family printers with PCL Level 5 Enhanced.
     To print in HP-GL/2 you are required to leave the PCL
     environment and enter the HP-GL/2 environment.
     Switching into and out of HP-GL/2 requires only a few
     commands, and cannot be done through the front menu
     panel. Some software applications may easily switch
     between the two modes as needed without affecting
     performance.

LEARNING HP-GL/2

     The best way to learn HP-GL/2 is to read the
     "Introduction to HP-GL/2 Graphics" in the PCL 5 Printer
     Language Technical Reference Manual for an overview of
     HP-GL/2. Then find the specific commands you need in
     subsequent chapters. Reading through the examples, then
     trying to print them using a text editor or programming
     language is the best way to learn HP-GL/2.


            Copyright  Hewlett-Packard Co. 1993
   The information contained herein is subject to change
                      without notice.
   Hewlett-Packard shall not be liable for incidental or
  consequential damages in connection with the use of this
                         material.