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Definition: Print Stream

A Print Stream is a sequence of data generated by an application that includes both the content to be printed and the necessary control codes or commands that instruct a printer on how to format the output (e.g., layout, fonts, graphics, paper handling). Print streams are common outputs from legacy mainframe or enterprise reporting systems.

Key Characteristics:

  • Content: Contains both textual/graphical information and printer-specific instructions.
  • Source: Often generated by large-scale batch processes (e.g., billing, statement generation). Can contain millions of individual documents within a single stream (p12, p37).
  • Formats: Common print stream formats include IBM AFP (Advanced Function Presentation), Xerox DJDE/Metacode, PCL (Printer Command Language), PostScript, and simple Line Data (p14, p21, p54).
  • Helix Context: Print streams are a primary source type handled by the MARS platform for data extraction, transformation, viewing (RTV), archiving (HSS), and migration (p14, p15, p182).