Abstract: An intelligent terminal comprising a first memory system (bubble memory) for storing data including a plurality of function programs; a second memory system (static RAM) and a processor operatively coupled to the static RAM to execute instructions therefrom at high speeds. A keyboard is used for selecting a function program to be executed and a direct memory access controller is used for transferring data, including a function program which is selected by the keyboard, from the bubble memory to the static RAM to enable the processor to execute the selected function program. A comparator is used for determining the end of a selected function program, and a static scratch pad RAM is used to store changes made in data to be returned to the bubble memory.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the velocity of a moving member like, for example, a print head carrier. A processor is utilized for controlling the velocity of the carrier with respect to a desired nominal velocity and for performing additional operations such as grouping of characters to be printed, firing print actuators, etc. associated with a printing function. The additional operations have predetermined associated time periods which are used in conjunction with successive signals from a timing strip associated with the carrier to produce a first count which corresponds to the actual velocity of the carrier.