Abstract: A system and method for reproducing images on a printer in printed form employs a primary microprocessor and a printer control microprocessor to achieve a "print while store" capability. Digital data corresponding to the images to be reproduced are received and stored by the first microprocessor which processes the data as well. When printing is desired, the data is transferred by the primary microprocessor to a printer buffer memory, and is then retrieved and printed by a gray line printer under the control of a printer control microprocessor. In accordance with the "print while store" capability, the latter operation of the printer control microprocessor can take place even while further image data is being acquired. Contention between the primary and printer control microprocessor is avoided by providing the printer control microprocessor with an "inhibit" capability.

Abstract: A system and method for reproducing a plurality of images on a printer in printed form in accordance with selectable, variable multiple formats. The method generally comprises the steps of selecting a given one of a plurality of selectable, variable formats, receiving and storing digital data corresponding to each of the plurality of images except for one of the plurality of images, multiplexing the digital data corresponding to each of the plurality of images except for one with the digital data corresponding to that one of the plurality of images, and providing the multiplexed digital data to a gray line printer so as to reproduce the plurality of images in printed form in accordance with the selected format.