IPDS AFP Printing Solutions

AFP to PDF - ExcelliPrint is an IPDS software solution with the ability to convert AFP to PDF

ExcelliPrint® receives IPDS files which have been converted by the Print Services Facility (PSF). Once the AFP data has been converted to IPDS, ExcelliPrint Premium is able to receive the IPDS and output to a PDF document. The PDF file can be emailed, saved to a folder on your computer, or sent to a PDF capable printer.

In this way, ExcelliPrint Premium functions as an efficient AFP to PDF converter.

ExcelliPrint produces PDF with searchable text

ExcellPrint embeds the original text from IPDS document in the PDF, along with the host fonts. Please see the PDF page for more information.

IPDS Watermarks and PC Graphical Overlays

ExcelliPrint supports applying an image watermark, or overlay, to IPDS spool files in PDF format. These documents can be viewed and printed like any standard PDF file.

AFP to PDF Conversion Advantages

Saving and archiving in electronic formats is advantageous in IPDS print environments for a number of reasons:

  • Reduces paper printing costs
  • Eliminates the need for specialized printers
  • Saves on storage costs for hard copy reports
    • Reports can easily be backed up to inexpensive, compact CDs or DVDs
    • Archived reports are a snapshot of any point in time as the original reports remain entirely intact
  • Reduces risk by allowing archived files to be stored inexpensively in various locations, either by creating copies of CDs or DVDs or storing on geographically distributed network drives
  • Speeds delivery of reports (especially when using electronic delivery or email)
  • Speeds retrieval and usefulness of information
  • Files can be grouped and sorted by different criteria

To convert pure AFP files (not via IPDS), please visit IHS Systems for AFP to PDF conversion

AFP Overview

AFP print management architecture uses the IPDS protocol to interact with printers. AFP is device-independent / object-oriented while IPDS is device-DEPENDENT.
 
AFP incorporates the MO:DCA elements when a job is ready for printing. Once this happens, the AFP data stream is converted into an IPDS data stream by the Print Service Facility (PSF).
 
Mixed Object Document Content Architecture (MO:DCA) is what AFP uses to define a document's presentation. MO:DCA allows various data types, including images, text, bar codes, and graphics to be incorporated into the final print job.