Abstract: A method is provided for linking Multi-Function Printers (MFPs) and Bar-Code Printers (BCPs). When the BCP is in a non-functional mode and the BCP receives a command file to be printed, the BCP cannot print the command file. In such scenario, the BCP converts the file to a predefined format understandable by the MFP and sends the file to the MFP over a predetermined communication channel. The MFP prints the requested file. When the BCP receives a command file to be printed in a format not understandable by BCP, the BCP cannot print the command file as the command file. Thus, the BCP sends the command file to the MFP and the MFP converts the command file to a data file in a format understandable by BCP and returns it to the BCP. The BCP prints the data file.