Overview
This lecture covers the usage, maintenance, and care of thermal printers, including handling thermal paper, cleaning protocols, and considerations for storing printed output.
Thermal Printer Paper
- Thermal printers use special thermal paper; inkjet or laser printer paper is not compatible.
- Thermal paper comes in various sizes; choose the correct size for your printer's model.
- Replacing thermal paper is quick: insert a new roll, extend the paper, close and lock the printer cover.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- The heating element may require cleaning, which can be done with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or IPA cleaning pens.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning the heating element.
- Cleaning cards can be run through the printer to clean the paper pathway and heating element.
- Remove debris and dust regularly; blowing with air or wiping with a damp cloth is suggested for portables.
- Avoid using regular vacuums due to static electricity risks; use special vacuums designed for electronics if available.
Thermal Print Output Handling
- Thermal printers create print using heat; exposing thermal prints to heat (e.g., on a dashboard, radiator, or hairdryer) can darken or ruin the output.
- Thermal paper fades over time, making long-term storage unreliable.
- For important documents, make a digital copy or print an additional copy on archival-safe paper.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Thermal printer — Printer that uses heat to create images on specially coated paper.
- Thermal paper — Paper designed to react to heat for printing; only works in thermal printers.
- Heating element — Component in the thermal printer that heats up to produce the print.
- IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) — Cleaning agent safe for the thermal printer’s heating element.
- Cleaning card — Card used to clean the interior pathways and heating element of a thermal printer.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Check your printer documentation for specific cleaning instructions.
- Ensure you use the correct size and type of thermal paper for your printer.
- Consider backing up important thermal printouts with digital or archival-safe copies.