In a method or device for control of a printer or copier, a series of discrete signal states is generated with which a drive unit for conveyance of a carrier material to be printed is controlled. A control signal is generated to end the conveyance of the carrier material. Based on the control signal, the generated series of the discrete signal states is changed at an earliest with a changed signal state following the control signal. A positioning error of the carrier material is caused due to a time period between the control signal and the changed signal state is detected.