Many small dot-matrix ribbon printers may not have any formatting at all and just expect raw graphics data, and direct motor drive commands to step the paper forward. They are also often sold as just the mechanics, since they are intended to be integrated with other electronics - maybe a card reader, or a keypad and display or similar.

It really is important to know what printer - after all, dot matrix printers have died away for most uses right now. Being impact printers, their strength may be to emit multi-part forms, or as an alternative when you need an archive classification from a ribbon printer. The thermal prints are so sensitive to sunlight or mechanical abuse.