What is a Printer: Types, Features and History
A printer is a type of computer and IT asset hardware that serves as an output device, responsible for producing physical copies of text, graphics, or images on paper or other materials. Printers are essential components of computer systems, enabling users to create tangible representations of digital data. There are various types of printers (Laser Printer, Inkjet Printer,Dot Matrix Printer) available, each with its own unique technology and functionality.
Printers play a crucial role in the realm of computer hardware and IT assets by bridging the gap between digital information and physical output. They are vital for various applications, including document printing, image reproduction, barcode printing, and more. Understanding the types of printers and their uses is essential for users to select the most suitable device based on their requirements and preferences. The evolution of printer technology has significantly enhanced the efficiency and quality of printed materials, contributing to the overall functionality and productivity of computer systems.
What are the types of printers?
The types of printers are listed bellow.
- Inkjet Printers: Inkjet printers use a special type of ink for printing on paper. They are commonly used for computers and are known for their ability to produce high-quality color prints.
- Laser Printers: Laser printers are high-speed devices that use laser technology to produce crisp and high-quality prints. They are often preferred for office environments due to their efficiency and speed.
- Dot Matrix Printers: Dot matrix printers create characters and images by striking pins against an ink ribbon to form dots on the paper. They are known for their durability and are sometimes used for printing multipart forms.
- Thermal Printers: Thermal printers use heat to produce images on special thermal paper. They are commonly used in point-of-sale systems and for printing labels and receipts.
- Solid Ink Printers: Solid ink printers use solid sticks of ink that are melted into a liquid before being transferred onto paper. They are known for producing vibrant colors and are environmentally friendly.
- Continuous Ink Printers: Continuous ink printers use a continuous ink supply system, eliminating the need for cartridges. They are cost-effective for high-volume printing.
- LED Printers: LED printers use light-emitting diodes to create images on the print drum. They are similar to laser printers but use LEDs instead of lasers for printing.
- A3 Printers: A3 printers are capable of printing on larger paper sizes, specifically A3 paper (11.7 x 16.5 inches). They are suitable for printing posters, diagrams, and other large-format documents.
These different types of printers play a crucial role in various settings, including homes, offices, and industries. Understanding the types of printers available is essential for selecting the most suitable one based on specific needs and requirements. The connection to computer hardware and IT assets lies in the fact that printers are physical components that work in conjunction with computers to produce tangible outputs, highlighting the importance of hardware components in the overall functioning of a computer system.
Inkjet Printers
Inkjet Printers are a type of printer that utilizes liquid ink to produce hard copies of text documents or images by propelling droplets of ink onto paper or other substrates. These printers are widely used for personal, home, and photo printing purposes due to their ability to create high-quality, vibrant prints. Inkjet printers operate by propelling tiny droplets of ink onto paper through a print head. The print head moves back and forth as the paper feeds through the printer, ensuring precise and accurate ink deposition. A typical inkjet printer can produce color prints with a resolution of 1200 x 1440 dots per inch (dpi), resulting in clear, crisp text and brilliant color images. Inkjet printers can print on various types of paper, offering better tonal variety and color blending capabilities compared to laser printers. Inkjet printers use liquid ink, which is stored in ink cartridges. In thermal inkjet printers, tiny resistors create heat to vaporize the ink and create a bubble, pushing the ink onto the paper. Inkjet printers are preferred for printing photos, images, and graphics due to their ability to produce high-quality, vibrant prints. They are commonly used in homes and for personal printing needs.Laser Printers
Laser printers are a type of printer that utilize electrophotographic technology to produce high-quality text, graphics, and images on paper. They work by using a laser beam to create an electrostatic image on a selenium-coated drum through electrical charges. This process involves the laser beam “drawing” the document on the drum, which is then transferred onto paper using toner in a dry, powdered form. One of the key advantages of laser printers is their speed and efficiency in handling large print jobs. They are known for their high-speed printing capabilities, making them ideal for office environments and situations where quick and high-volume printing is required. Laser printers typically have fewer maintenance requirements compared to inkjet printers, as toner cartridges last longer and do not dry out like liquid ink cartridges. Gary Starkweather is credited with inventing the laser printer in 1969 at the Xerox research lab in Webster, New York. Laser printers are often associated with producing clear, crisp text and graphics suitable for business documents. They are also capable of producing moderate-quality photographs.Dot Matrix Printers
Dot Matrix Printers are a type of printer that uses impact printing technology to create characters and images on paper. Unlike laser printers that use a laser beam or inkjet printers that use ink, dot matrix printers work by striking pins against an ink-soaked ribbon to form dots on the paper. These printers are known for their distinctive printing sound and are commonly used for printing multipart forms, invoices, receipts, and other documents that require multiple copies. Dot matrix printers are characterized by their ability to produce carbon copies by pressing an inked ribbon against the paper, transferring the characters through a series of closely spaced dots. The print head of a dot matrix printer contains a matrix of pins that are controlled electronically to form characters and images by impacting the ribbon against the paper. One of the key advantages of dot matrix printers is their ability to create multiple copies of a document simultaneously, making them suitable for tasks that require duplicate copies. They are also known for their durability and reliability, making them a preferred choice for certain industrial and commercial applications. In terms of speed, dot matrix printers are generally slower than laser printers and inkjet printers, but they excel in tasks that require continuous and reliable printing, such as in environments where multipart forms are commonly used. Notable inventors in the history of dot matrix printers include Centronics, which developed the Centronics printer interface that became a standard for connecting printers to computers. The Epson MX-80, introduced in 1980, was one of the most popular dot matrix printers of its time.Thermal Printers
Thermal Printers are a type of printer that use heat to produce images on paper. Unlike laser and inkjet printers that use toner or ink, thermal printers rely on heat-sensitive paper and thermal print heads to create text and images. These printers are commonly used in various applications such as point-of-sale systems, labeling, fax machines, and some types of tickets. Thermal printers work by selectively heating coated thermal paper as it passes over the thermal print head. The heat causes the coating on the paper to react and produce the desired image or text. There are two main types of thermal printing technologies: direct thermal and thermal transfer printing. In direct thermal printing, the print head generates heat directly on the thermal paper, causing the coating to darken and create the image. This method is commonly used for receipts, shipping labels, and other applications where the print needs to be temporary and cost-effective. Direct thermal printing does not require ink or toner cartridges, making it a simple and low-maintenance printing solution. On the other hand, thermal transfer printing uses a ribbon coated with ink or wax-based pigment that is melted onto the paper when heated by the print head. This method is often used for applications where more durable and long-lasting prints are required, such as barcode labels and product packaging. Thermal transfer printing produces high-quality prints that are resistant to fading and smudging. Thermal printers offer advantages such as fast printing speeds, quiet operation, and low maintenance requirements. They are known for their reliability and are commonly used in environments where high-volume printing is needed. The technology behind thermal printing has evolved over the years, with advancements in print quality and durability. Inventors and important figures in the development of thermal printing technology include Ichiro Endo, who is credited with inventing the first thermal printer in the 1970s. Over time, thermal printers have become widely adopted in various industries due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The versatility of thermal printers makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, from retail and healthcare to transportation and logistics.Solid Ink Printers
Solid Ink Printers are a type of printer that utilize solid wax-based ink sticks or blocks instead of traditional liquid ink cartridges. These printers were introduced in the late 1980s and are known for their unique printing process. When a print job is initiated, the solid ink sticks are heated to their melting point within the printer. This melting process transforms the solid ink into a liquid form, which is then transferred onto the paper to create the desired image or text. One of the key features of solid ink technology is its use of wax-based ink, which is a waxy, resin-based polymer that needs to be melted before printing. This method differs from conventional liquid inks commonly found in inkjet printers. The concept behind solid ink is that it remains solid at normal ambient temperatures but is melted within the printer to become a liquid for printing purposes. Solid ink printers work by liquefying the wax ink sticks into reservoirs within the printer. The ink is then sprayed onto the paper in a “phase-change” process, where it solidifies upon contact and produces vibrant, high-quality prints. These printers are often praised for their ability to rival inkjet printers in terms of color accuracy and are particularly well-suited for printing full-color images. Xerox is a notable company that has been associated with the development and patenting of solid wax ink technology, which is a unique and award-winning system. Genuine Xerox solid ink sticks are specially formulated for specific printer models to ensure optimal print quality and consistency. These ink sticks are designed to minimize packaging waste, making solid ink printers a more environmentally friendly printing option compared to inkjet and laser printers.Continuous Ink Printers
Continuous Ink Printers are a type of printer that utilize a continuous ink supply system to generate a continuous stream of ink droplets for printing. These printers, also known as CISS printers or continuous inkjet printers, are designed to provide a cost-effective solution for high-volume printing needs. The technology behind continuous ink printers involves a continuous flow of ink from an ink reservoir through a nozzle, creating a jet of ink that is used for printing on various surfaces. This innovative process allows for the continuous printing of small but high-quality prints, including text, barcodes, and images. One of the key features of continuous ink printers is their ability to incorporate refillable ink tanks or reservoirs instead of traditional cartridges. This design feature allows for a higher printing capacity and reduces the need for frequent cartridge replacements. Manufacturers like HP and Canon have introduced printers with built-in, refillable ink tanks that use high-yield ink bottles, providing users with a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly printing solution. Continuous ink printers are commonly used in industrial settings for marking and coding products with variable information such as dates or batch codes. The printers offer non-contact printing flexibility, allowing them to mark on various surfaces, including rough or uneven materials. Brands like Videojet and Hitachi offer CIJ printers that are suitable for different line speeds and production requirements, making them versatile options for industrial coding applications. Continuous inkjet technology has been in use since the early 1950s and has evolved to become a reliable option for businesses and professionals with high printing demands. The continuous ink supply system in CIJ printers ensures a steady flow of ink, making them ideal for producing consistent and high-quality prints. With the ability to churn out thousands of pages from a single ink refill, continuous ink printers offer a cost-effective printing solution compared to traditional cartridge-based printers.LED Printers
LED Printers are a type of printer that utilize Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) to create an image on the printing surface. Unlike traditional laser printers that use a laser beam to create the image on a drum, LED printers use an array of LEDs to achieve the same result. These printers are known for their reliability, efficiency, and high-quality output. LED technology allows for precise control over the printing process, resulting in sharp text and graphics. One of the key advantages of LED printers is their simplicity in design. LED printers have fewer moving parts compared to traditional laser printers, which can lead to reduced maintenance requirements and increased durability. The absence of a moving laser beam also contributes to faster print speeds in LED printers, making them ideal for high-volume printing environments. LED printers are often preferred for their energy efficiency. LED technology consumes less power compared to traditional laser printers, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, LED printers tend to be more compact and quieter in operation, making them suitable for small office spaces or home use. In terms of print quality, LED printers are capable of producing high-resolution prints with crisp text and vibrant colors. LED technology allows for precise control over the toner placement, resulting in consistent and accurate output. These printers are suitable for a wide range of printing tasks, from text documents to graphics and images. Some notable manufacturers of LED printers include OKI, Xerox, and Dell. These companies have developed a range of LED printers that cater to different printing needs, from personal use to professional printing environments. LED printers have gained popularity for their reliability, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making them a competitive alternative to traditional laser printers in the market.A3 Printers
A3 Printers are a type of printer that are specifically designed to handle larger paper sizes, notably A3 (297 mm x 420 mm or 11.69 x 16.53 inches) and other sizes such as A4, US Letter, Legal, Tabloid/Ledger, envelopes, and postcards. These printers can accommodate paper sizes up to 11 x 17 inches or even 12 x 18 inches with the use of a bypass tray. They are known for their versatility in printing various paper dimensions, making them suitable for a wide range of printing needs. Compared to A4 printers, A3 printers are larger in size and are often more robust, making them ideal for high-volume printing and specialized finishing requirements. A3 printers are commonly used in environments where there is a demand for larger prints and where detailed presentations or striking graphics are necessary. They are favored for their ability to handle a variety of paper sizes efficiently, offering increased productivity, improved efficiency, and cost savings for businesses. A3 printers are available in different models, including copiers, printers, and multifunction printers (MFPs), which can print, scan, copy, and fax documents up to 11 x 17 inches in size. These printers are equipped with advanced features for ease of use and are adaptable to various printing needs, not limited to just larger prints. They are often recommended for both home and office use, providing the capability to print bigger and better quality outputs. In terms of cost, A3 printers are typically more expensive than A4 printers due to their larger size and enhanced capabilities. However, they offer vivid graphics and high-quality output at larger sizes, surpassing the capabilities of A4 printers. A3 printers are considered a valuable investment for businesses that require professional-grade printing solutions and the ability to handle a wide range of paper sizes effectively. Some popular A3 printer models include the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-format Printer and the HP Color LaserJet Enterprise MFP, known for their high-volume printing capabilities and advanced features. A3 printers play a crucial role in meeting the demands of businesses that require efficient, high-capacity printing and versatile paper handling options.What features to look for in a printer?
The features to look for in a printer are:- Print Speed: Consider the pages per minute (PPM) metric to determine how fast the printer can output documents.
- Color or B&W: Decide whether you need a printer that can produce color prints or if black and white is sufficient for your needs.
- Single or Multifunction: Choose between a printer that only prints or a multifunction printer that can also scan, copy, and fax.
- Inkjet, Laser, or Tank Printer: Select the type of printer technology that best suits your printing requirements.
- Paper Handling: Evaluate the paper tray capacity and types of paper the printer can handle.
- Duty Cycle and Recommended Monthly Page Volume: Consider the printer’s duty cycle to ensure it can handle your printing demands.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for printers that are energy-efficient to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
- Overall Costs: Factor in not just the initial printer cost but also ongoing expenses like ink or toner replacements.
What is the history of printers?
The history of printers starts as early as 3000 BCE when the proto-Elamite and Sumerian civilizations used cylinder seals to certify documents written in cuneiform script. Over time, printing technology evolved significantly. In 1041, Chinese printers adapted Wood-block printing to mass-produce classical books. This was followed by the invention of movable type made from baked clay in China in 1151, a significant advancement in printing technology.
Moving forward, in the mid-1400s, German craftsman Johannes Gutenberg developed a way to handle movable type more efficiently, leading to the invention of the printing press. This invention revolutionized the production of printed materials and marked the beginning of the Printing Revolution. Gutenberg’s printing press allowed for the mass production of printed matter, making books more accessible and affordable.
In 1907, Englishman Samuel Simon was awarded a patent for using silk fabric as a printing screen, which popularized screen printing. The 1930s saw the invention of the dry printing process by Chester Carlson, which later became known as electrophotography or Xerography, revolutionizing the printing industry.
The 1950s brought further advancements with Remington-Rand developing the world’s first high-speed printer in 1953, followed by IBM’s printer developments in 1957. The 1970s saw the introduction of the first laser printers by IBM and Xerox, with HP’s LaserJet in 1984 marking the beginning of desktop publishing.
The history of inkjet printers is shared among Canon, Hewlett-Packard, and Epson, with the idea dating back to the 1950s. Inkjet printing technology has continued to evolve, offering high-quality prints at affordable prices.
Overall, the history of printers showcases a journey of innovation and technological advancements, from ancient printing methods to modern high-speed laser and inkjet printers, shaping the way information is disseminated and making printing more accessible to people worldwide.
Do ITAD companies dispose of printers?
Yes, ITAD (IT Asset Disposition) companies do dispose of printers as part of their services. They specialize in the proper disposal and recycling of various IT equipment, including printers. Information Technology Asset Disposition companies ensure that printers are recycled or disposed of in an environmentally friendly and secure manner, in compliance with regulations.
Are printers a type of computer hardware?
Yes, printers are a type of computer hardware. Printers are peripheral computer hardware devices that are connected to computers to produce physical copies of documents or images. They rely on computer commands to function and are an essential component of a computer setup.
