Getting Started - PCL or PostScript Output

Getting Started

Overview

Design Process

Planning Form Design

Print Line or Records Mode

PCL or PostScript Output

Form Design

PCL or PostScript Output

FormTrap supports the output file formats PCL (PCL5e and PCL5c) and PostScript (Level 2). The mode of output is selected when you build your project, not at run time, so you need to be aware of which printer driver you are using when you design and build your forms. In most cases, the PCL and PostScript output will appear identical, but there may be small differences in font handling, which can impact on the overall appearance of the form.

Note: Printers that are not PCL (PCL5e and PCL5c) or PostScript will not appear in the printers list in FTDesign.

In some cases you may need to build the same project in both modes. For example you would do this if you need to cater for low bandwidth printing and colour PDF delivery.

When do I choose PCL?

PCL is faster and the output is smaller. You would choose the PCL option:

For printing forms across networks, particularly networks with low bandwidth or high traffic or;
For printing checks. FormTrap supports the MICR font only in PCL mode.

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When do I choose PostScript?

PostScript files are typically 3 times larger than the PCL equivalent. You would choose the PostScript option:

If you want to produce color PDF files for email delivery or;
If you plan to outsource your printing. PostScript files are more readily supported than PCL by third party printing houses.

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