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Mapping Overlays In a Page Definition     

Question:

I know you can map AFP overlays in a page definition, but I’m not clear on why you would need to. Is it required if you already have the overlay defined in the form definition? Also, if I use the overlay command in a page definition, do I need to use the PRELOAD and PRERIP commands?

Answer:

Using the overlay command in a page definition is a method of enhancing printer throughput performance. By using the overlay command, the printer can download the overlay object one time for a print job and have it available for use on subsequent pages of the same print job, and in some cases, on subsequent print jobs.

Use of the PRELOAD puts the overlay object into printer memory prior to the starting the print job. Throughput performance is enhanced by taking away the real time download time and moving it to the point at which the page is built.

Please note:  The PRELOAD subcommand can only be used if the printer supports the preloading function.

Use of the PRERIP subcommand is used to enhance throughput performance by rasterizing (RIPing) the overlay resources at the correct size and rotation when they are preloaded. The PRERIP subcommand can only be used if the printer supports the prerip function.

Check out the Page Printer Formatting Aid (PPFA) reference materials available from IBM at:

http://www.ibm.com/Search/?q=S544-5285&v=11&lang=en&cc=zz&Search.x=37&Search.y=11 .

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If you would like some additional information on PPFA, or