Dot Matrix Printers

Dot matrix printers were first introduced in the 1970s. This type of ink printer is also known as an impact matrix printer. The technology of this computer printer results in a low-cost product. Multi-fold stationery and carbon copies can be printed by any of these impact style printers and perforated-edged paper can be used for continuous printing, which can be useful for data logging. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the dot matrix printers were considered the best for cost and durability and were the commonly used printers of the time.

How They Work

The name "dot matrix" refers to the way the print head runs across the pages and prints by striking against the paper with the ink from the cloth ribbon inside the printer, much like a typewriter. The letters are taken from the dot matrix, so that various fonts and variable graphics can be reproduced. Mechanical pressure is used to print the letters so carbon and non-carbon copies can be reproduced. The dots are made by small pins driven by a solenoid. Most dot matrix printers print in a single vertical line but some printers contain multi-levels of rows of pins that strike together to improve the result of the dot density. The pins are guided through by a small plate to control the accuracy of their strikes against the paper. This plate is usually made from an artificial jewel-like material such as a sapphire or garnet.

Uses

The quality of dot matrix printers is usually poor and produces low-resolution graphics. The printer is of very slow speed and usually has little color performance. The printer is a good choice for environments in which there is little demand for printing graphics or high-quality print material. The simplicity and ease of this machine to use controls make this a good choice of printer if the user is not computer-savvy. The machine is durable and poses the least amount of complex troubleshooting options as for how to clear paper jams and refill ink cartridges. As the ink depletes it slowly fades to indicate that it is time to refill the inkwell cartridge. The ink itself can cause wear and tear on the print head which will result in less accurate printing. Changing the print head is not difficult and can usually be done by the owner, rather than needing a technician.

The use of these printers is still prevalent in uses such as automated bank machines and cash registers. The cost of an inkjet printer is more reasonable than a new dot matrix printer, making an inkjet the preferred choice initially. While the initial cost of a dot matrix printer may seem high, the operating costs in return are much lower. Dot matrix printers are ideal for use where the printed content is more important than the quality.