Check Printing Software - Blank Laser Checks - Check Signers - Electronic Forms - Output Management

Sample ASCII File Guidelines

• Files can be "dummy data" or real check output files
• Send a worst case example of your data
• All fields that can potentially appear in your print file should be represented in the sample data that you send us. 
• An example of maximum field length for each field is helpful
• Try to include a record with all character fields filled with X’s and numeric fields filled with 9’s. 
• Enter maximum dollar values on at least one record if possible.
• Fill out all fields for at least one record even if you don’t currently use them.
• Include a record showing the maximum number of line items you expect to occur.
• If your application creates "overflow" pages, include a record that produces overflow in your data file. This is very important!
• Include records that show all combinations of data that will print differently with respect to position, number of lines, word wrap, etc.
• If excessive data in certain fields causes line wrapping, include an example.
• If EMPTY fields cause lines to DROP from the print file, include examples.
• Include sample data for any unusual records that can appear in the print file. 
• Deselect TRAILER, PAGE SEPARATORS or SUMMARY REPORT options in your software if they print within the same output file as your data.
• Send us an ALIGNMENT page (if available) but in a SEPARATE sample file.
• Do not edit the file after it has been produced by your application in any way.
• Files should be PLAIN ASCII without printer control codes.
• Software applications can usually print to a TEXT ONLY or ASCII printer.
• Install and configure a GENERIC/TEXT ONLY PRINTER on your computer to print to a FILE.
• You may have to CAPTURE a parallel port so that DOS-like programs output to the text printer.

E-mail the file to:
info@laser-forms.com

Having trouble getting clean ASCII from your application?

• Contact the person who handles the computers and information systems at your organization and give them these guidelines.

• Contact your software vendor and inquire about TEXT ONLY check and report printing.

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