Computer Dictionary of Information Technology

Advanced Function Presentation

(AFP) A page description language from IBM introduced in 1984 initially as Advanced Function Printing. AFP was first developed for mainframes and then brought to minicomputers and workstations. It is implemented on the various platforms by Print Services Facility (PSF) software, which generates the native IBM printer language, IPDS and, depending on the version, PostScript and LaserJet PCL as well. IBM calls AFP a "printer architecture" rather than a page description language.