Abstract: An apparatus for intergrating plural printed documents into a stacked relationship, such as a magazine, catalog and the like. The apparatus includes a printer for applying customized messages to the magazine, such as the inside cover. This printer is controlled by a controller located remote from the assembly apparatus and at a distance exceeding 150 feet from the printer. A communication interface is provided comprising a line driver/receiver interface for amplifying and shielding the signals required to control the printer, preferably signals indicative of the document position of the document with respect to the printer. A non-standard data format protocol is maintained, and the interface is transparent to the apparatus. The controller is located within a control room with an acceptable environment for operation of the controller, this environment having an acceptable temperature and humidity.