Abstract: Pipelined image data transfer which tessellates and quads the data while transferring. The output data from the transfer can be selectively in quad or linear format. Such tessellating and formatting is performed in-line using alternate buffers for pipelining so that there is effectively no delay for performing the operations. The operations are performed by unique input and output buffer and image storage addressing.

Abstract: A character generator with multidirectional scan and variable line and character (or symbol) size capability is disclosed. Universality is implemented by producing a serial binary stream which can be used to print or display in any of eight combinations of scan direction and progression, that is, for scan direction left to right, or vice versa, progressing up or down, or scan direction top or bottom or vice versa, progressing left or right. In formatting the serial binary stream, a font is accessed (for basic symbol definition), which selectively provides for orthogonal scan of the symbol definitions. Variable line size is implemented by terminating a symbol row (or line) based on a predetermined size criteria regardless of the comparable font dimension and "filling" up to the line size to the extent the corresponding font dimension is less than the predetermined size criteria.

Abstract: A character generator with multidirectional scan and variable line and character (or symbol) size capability. Universality is implemented by producing a serial binary stram which can be used to print or display in any of eight combinations of scan direction and progression, that is, for scan direction left to right, or vice versa, progressing up or down, or scan direction top to bottom or vice versa, progressing left or right. In formatting the serial binary stream, a font is accessed (for basic symbol definition), which selectively provides for orthogonal scans of the symbol definitions. Variable line size is implemented by terminating a symbol row (or line) based on a predetermined size criteria regardless of the comparable font dimension and "filling" up to the line size to the extent the corresponding font dimension is less than the predetermined size criteria.

Abstract: The invention provides a printer with a capability of printing in any one of a plurality of rotations. Component image data is stored in a library. The component image data is subdivided into data sets or quads. The size of a quad is selected so that it can be readily rotated with simple hardware. As the data sets are written to a buffer, they are rotated, and the locations in the buffer at which the different data sets are written depends on the selected rotation, to provide for data rotation "on the fly".

Abstract: A common memory interfacing circuit and method for coupling a memory to either a synchronous bus or an asynchronous bus. Synchronizing means are provided for synchronizing memory request signals with a local clock when the interfacing circuit is coupled to an asynchronous bus. The interface circuit responds to signals from the memory when internal memory operation has been completed and generates an acknowledge signal to send to the requesting bus. To simplify the common interface circuit, a synchronous protocol for information exchange between system components is made similar to an asynchronous protocol.

Abstract: A copy production machine controlled by a programmed computer in which the computer control programs include synchronous and asynchronous portions. The asynchronous portions are repetitively executed in loop form for checking operating components and servicing operator control panels. The synchronous portions are executed in timed relation to the operation of the machine. The execution of the programs is coordinated via a set of memory registers accessible by the computer during execution of both program portions.

Abstract: Multi-processor programmable controller including a random access memory and a non-volatile memory for storing signals relating to a plurality of programs executable in the controller. One processor does text processing and system control functions. A second processor operates the copy production portion. The one processor has complete control of the second processor via a multiprocessor connector.