MICR printing

We are searching for an alternative to printing checks on preprinted
check forms that already have the bank and account info encoded on the
bottom of each check.  We would like to use some type of form overlay to
print the entire check on blank check stock.

We realize that we will have to use a MICR enabled printer to do this. 
It appears that I can use Advanced Function Presentation (AFP) on the
Iseries to create the overlays I need (I've never used AFP).  My
question: Do I need additional software to create the funky characters
that appear at the bottom of the check between the bank routing number
and the encrypted account number?  Or, do the MICR enabled printers
handle this?

If anyone has experience using AFP to print checks, I would appreciate
a simple reply stating whether it is worth the effort learning how to
use it.

Thanks.



Bill Huguenard
Bay District Schools
850-747-5416