Dot Matrix Printers

Overview

• Type: Impact printer
• Mechanism: Uses impact to press a ribbon against paper, creating marks (output)
• Output: Composed of small dots forming letters and numbers

Advantages

• Multiple Copies: Capable of printing multiple copies simultaneously using carbon paper
• Cost-Effective: Low cost per page as it only requires ink from a ribbon

Disadvantages

• Noise: Produces loud noise due to impact mechanism
• Resolution: Not suitable for high-resolution graphical outputs

Printing Mechanism

• Components:
  • Paper
  • Ribbon: Positioned in front of the paper
  • Printhead: Moves back and forth, uses pins to create output
• Printhead Details:
  • Contains 24 pins
  • Width approximately equal to a single character
  • Includes a heat sink to dissipate heat
• Ink Transfer: Pins press into the ribbon, transferring ink onto the paper
• Ribbon:
  • Made of fabric, long and cycling through the printing process
  • Easy to replace with cartridge model specific to the printer

Paper and Feed Mechanism

• Tractor Feed:
  • Pulls paper through printer using holes on sides
  • Paper often has perforations for easy separation
• Paper Installation:
  • Align paper with guides, lock them in place
  • Press paper feed button to prepare for next print
• Paper Format:
  • Long folded paper with perforations between pages
  • Can remove side tractor feeds after printing

Green Bar Paper

• Association: Often used with mainframe printing
• Description:
  • Large format, 11 inches high by 14 inches wide
  • Built-in tractor feed on left and right sides
  • Compatible with any dot matrix printer