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Definition: host-based printing


A printing system that relies entirely on the host computer to perform all the printer processing. The computer's CPU rasterizes the data, which creates the bitmaps of the printed pages. It also sends commands directly to the print heads. Many inexpensive inkjet printers are host-based printers designed for the Windows Printing System (see GDI printer).

Non-Host-Based
Depending on the application and printing system, non-host-based printers may also be sent rasterized pages. However, in the case of PostScript and PDF input, they perform the rasterization inside the printer with their own CPUs. Non-host-based printers always control their own print heads and mechanisms. See printing system.