Abstract: A dot matrix character printer having the capability of printing characters at variable speeds and with variable pitches. Variable pitch is provided through the use of programmable radix counters which control actuation of the printing solenoids. Solenoid actuation is based on print head position, with the actuation position being varied with print head velocity, to compensate for the distance travelled by the print head during the time between solenoid actuation and print wire impact; this permits operation at variable printing rates. Printing rate is limited by the cyclic rate of the print head, with an additional limitation based on dot printing density which prevents excessive heating of the printing solenoids. Control functions are provided by a firmware-controlled microprocessor and a special purpose integrated circuit (PCC). The operation of the microprocessor and PCC are time-independent of each other.