Output: Printer Types
Any of the current types of printers satisfies the work and cost requirements for someone. Each has strengths and weaknesses. Choose your type of printer based on which of the features previously discussed are important to your work, then choose the specific printer that best suits both your tasks and pocketbook.
Impact Printers
With
this type of printer something strikes paper & ribbon together to
form a character, like a typewriter.
Advantages: |
Less expensive Fast (some types) Can make multiple copies with multipart paper |
Disadvantages: |
Noisy! Print quality lower in some types. Poor graphics or none at all. |
Types of Impact Printers
Dot Matrix |
Forms characters using row(s) of pins, 9, 18, or 24 which impact the ribbon on top of the paper. Also called pin printers. The more pins, the smoother-looking the characters. Most dot matrix printers have the characteristics below: |
A dot-matrix y & an enlargement
Animation showing how columns of pins print the letter y (Credit: Bill Lewis) |
|||||||||
|
|
||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||
Chain and Band Printers |
Uses characters on a band or chain that is moved into place before striking the characters onto the paper.
|
||||||||||
Non-Impact Printers
This
type of printer does not involve actually striking the paper.
Instead, it uses a spray of printer ink or else toner powder.
Advantages: |
Quiet! Can handle graphics and often a wider variety of fonts than impact printers. |
Disadvantages: |
More expensive Slower |
Types of Non-Impact Printers
Ink Jet |
|
||||
Thermal |
Uses heat on chemically treated paper to form characters. Fax machines that use rolls of paper are also of this type.
|
||||
Page Printer |
Works like a copy machine, using toner and a heat bar. Laser printers are in this category.
|
Sprays
ink onto paper to form characters