Abstract: A variable clock generator includes a clock multiplier that generates from a reference clock at least two clock signals which are out of phase with each other and a clock divider which receives a plurality of divider patterns and which receives at least two clock signals from the clock multiplier. The clock divider generates an output clock based on the divider patterns and the clock signals. In a particular embodiment, the clock divider includes a plurality of loadable linear feedback shift registers each having an output. An EXCLUSIVE OR gate that is responsive to the outputs of the linear feedback shift registers then EXCLUSIVE ORs the outputs of the linear feedback shift registers to produce the output clock. Preferably, the size of the linear feedback shift registers corresponds to the size of the divider patterns.

Abstract: A point of sale printer includes a magnetic reader for processing transactions and payment by check at a checkout point of a retail establishment. The printer includes a magnetic or MICR reader located at a predetermined point on the printer's document travel path and a print head located at the same point on the document travel path but laterally offset from the MICR reader to allow the printer to print customer receipts and a journal as well as reading MICR information from checks and endorsing the check after it is cleared. A pressure pad is used with the magnetic read head of the MICR reader which utilizes a pressure film which flexes when a document is inserted between the magnetic read head and the pressure film to provide a spring loading force on the magnetic read head while still allowing the document to be moved smoothly past the magnetic read head.