Abstract: An automatic format control for controlling text format upon playout from a text buffer loaded from segmented media, such as magnetic cards. At the beginning of a job and during input keying, format information made up of tab set locations, a measure length, index values, adjust modes, etc., is stored in a text buffer. The keying of this information causes appropriate printer format control settings. Text to be formatted and controlled by the printer according to this format information is then keyed and stored in the text buffer. A later change in format for the same page of the job is handled by keying new format information. This results in new printer tab, etc., settings. This new format information is also stored in the text buffer. Upon later recording onto a magnetic card, all format information is stored on the card along with the text. Also, the last format information recorded on the card is written into a format buffer.

Abstract: A system for merging data flow having a typewriter electronically connected to a buffer, which is a dynamic electronic shift register, for inputting data into sections of the buffer and for merging the data in the sections into a single printout. System control logic is provided to allow (1) a separator, or partition, code to be input into the buffer for defining sections (2) codes corresponding to hold and operation flags to be input into the sections, and (3) text data codes corresponding to characters and switching and/or stopping points to be input into the sections. In addition, the system control logic is operable to allow the operator to insert characters into and delete characters from the sections of the buffer for text editing and revision.

Abstract: A system for printing a plurality of sequentially stored text columns in a side-by-side format. Corresponding lines from each column are printed out on a print line in operator defined locations. After a line from one of the columns is printed on a print line, the carrier caused to escape, and any corresponding lines from succeeding columns are printed on the same line prior to causing a printer carrier return.