Using Conditional Processing versus Normal Line Data Processing

Normal line-data processing consists of:

  • Setting up the physical page environment by defining a copy group
  • Setting up the logical page environment by defining a page format

Input records correspond to PRINTLINE commands that determine such things as where the input records are to be printed, which font to use and what print direction to use. Only one copy group and page format can be used for processing each input record.

Conditional processing acts as a preprocessor by allowing you to test the input data before deciding which copy group and page format to use. Furthermore, you can change these specifications based on changes in the input data. Except for record reprocessing (explained in Record Reprocessing Description and Processing), once the copy group and page-format specifications have been made, conditional processing operates the same as normal line-data processing.

Note: The copy group and page format can also be changed by placing Advanced Function Presentation data stream (AFP data stream) Invoke Medium Map (IMM) and Invoke Data Map (IDM) structured fields in the input data. Use of these structured fields within the input print file causes results that differ from what is described in this section. Refer to Mixed Object Document Content Architecture Reference for information about these structured fields.
Parent topic: General Description