Abstract: A nominal carriage velocity profile is initiated during each carriage positioning interval which enables the carriage to be decelerated and stopped at the proper position for printing. However, the carriage velocity profile can be modified during the positioning interval to avoid decelerating if printing can occur on the fly; i.e., if the print element (and ribbon) are able to complete any necessary positioning by the time the carriage arrives at its printing position. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the slave microprocessor produces a READY signal in advance of the print wheel arriving at its destination orientation. The READY signal indicates that both the print wheel and ribbon will reach their destinations and be ready for printing within a fixed time interval; e.g., three milliseconds. In response to the READY signal, the master microprocessor inhibits further adjustments in the carriage speed and permits the carriage to assume a "fly" mode.