Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the most basic type of printer known as?
What is the most basic type of printer known as?
- Laser printer
- Impact printer (correct)
- Inkjet printer
- Thermal printer
What type of printer uses a paper feed mechanism called a tractor feed?
What type of printer uses a paper feed mechanism called a tractor feed?
- Thermal printer
- Impact printer (correct)
- Inkjet printer
- Laser printer
Which technology is relatively expensive for the home user?
Which technology is relatively expensive for the home user?
- Dot-matrix printing
- Color laser printing (correct)
- Inkjet printing
- Thermal printing
What are the two major types of impact printers?
What are the two major types of impact printers?
What type of paper does an impact printer's tractor feed require?
What type of paper does an impact printer's tractor feed require?
Which type of printing technology will be covered in a primer at the end of the sections?
Which type of printing technology will be covered in a primer at the end of the sections?
What moves the print head in an inkjet printer?
What moves the print head in an inkjet printer?
What dictates the pattern of ink dots sprayed on the paper in an inkjet printer?
What dictates the pattern of ink dots sprayed on the paper in an inkjet printer?
What is the purpose of the duplexing assembly in some inkjet printers?
What is the purpose of the duplexing assembly in some inkjet printers?
What happens after the print head completes a pass across the page in an inkjet printer?
What happens after the print head completes a pass across the page in an inkjet printer?
When does the print head get parked in an inkjet printer?
When does the print head get parked in an inkjet printer?
What determines whether the print head returns to the beginning of the line and prints again in the same direction only or moves backward across the page in an inkjet printer?
What determines whether the print head returns to the beginning of the line and prints again in the same direction only or moves backward across the page in an inkjet printer?
What component of an inkjet printer contains small nozzles that spray ink onto the page?
What component of an inkjet printer contains small nozzles that spray ink onto the page?
Which method of spraying ink out of the cartridge involves heating elements causing ink vaporization?
Which method of spraying ink out of the cartridge involves heating elements causing ink vaporization?
What components make the print head move back and forth during printing?
What components make the print head move back and forth during printing?
What is the purpose of the maintenance station in an inkjet printer?
What is the purpose of the maintenance station in an inkjet printer?
How are the pickup rollers in an inkjet printer cleaned?
How are the pickup rollers in an inkjet printer cleaned?
Where is the paper fed into an inkjet printer placed before being fed into the printer by the paper feed mechanism?
Where is the paper fed into an inkjet printer placed before being fed into the printer by the paper feed mechanism?
What is the purpose of calibration in an inkjet printer?
What is the purpose of calibration in an inkjet printer?
What is the role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What is the role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What initiates the inkjet printing process?
What initiates the inkjet printing process?
What is the function of the power circuits in an inkjet printer?
What is the function of the power circuits in an inkjet printer?
What is the role of interface circuitry in an inkjet printer?
What is the role of interface circuitry in an inkjet printer?
What happens if the printer has not printed in a while?
What happens if the printer has not printed in a while?
What distinguishes daisy-wheel printers from dot-matrix printers?
What distinguishes daisy-wheel printers from dot-matrix printers?
What was a common issue with early dot-matrix printers' image quality?
What was a common issue with early dot-matrix printers' image quality?
How do inkjet printers form the image on the page?
How do inkjet printers form the image on the page?
What is a characteristic of older inkjet printers?
What is a characteristic of older inkjet printers?
What are some main parts of inkjet printers?
What are some main parts of inkjet printers?
What does the term 'bubble-jet printers' refer to?
What does the term 'bubble-jet printers' refer to?
Most of the time, when faced with the decision of purchasing a printer, you’re going to be weighing performance versus __________.
Most of the time, when faced with the decision of purchasing a printer, you’re going to be weighing performance versus __________.
Impact printers, as their name suggests, use some form of impact and an inked printer ribbon to make an imprint on the __________.
Impact printers, as their name suggests, use some form of impact and an inked printer ribbon to make an imprint on the __________.
Impact printers also use a paper feed mechanism called a __________ feed that requires special paper.
Impact printers also use a paper feed mechanism called a __________ feed that requires special paper.
There are two major types of impact printers: __________-wheel and dot-matrix.
There are two major types of impact printers: __________-wheel and dot-matrix.
Specifically, we are going to look at five classifications of classic printing: impact, inkjet, laser, thermal, and __________, and then finish up with a primer on 3D printing.
Specifically, we are going to look at five classifications of classic printing: impact, inkjet, laser, thermal, and __________, and then finish up with a primer on 3D printing.
Impact Printers are in the category known as an __________ printer.
Impact Printers are in the category known as an __________ printer.
Dot-matrix printers work similarly to daisy-wheel printers, with a print head containing a row of pins triggered in patterns to form letters and numbers.
Dot-matrix printers work similarly to daisy-wheel printers, with a print head containing a row of pins triggered in patterns to form letters and numbers.
______ printers spray ink on the page to form the image and typically use a reservoir of ink, a pump, and a nozzle.
______ printers spray ink on the page to form the image and typically use a reservoir of ink, a pump, and a nozzle.
______ printers are now affordable, with some models priced at $40 to $50, offering print quality that rivals basic laser printers.
______ printers are now affordable, with some models priced at $40 to $50, offering print quality that rivals basic laser printers.
The term '______ printers' is copyrighted by Canon and refers to inkjet printers that spray droplets of ink in a high-definition dot-matrix pattern.
The term '______ printers' is copyrighted by Canon and refers to inkjet printers that spray droplets of ink in a high-definition dot-matrix pattern.
Types of ______ and Inkjet Printers
Types of ______ and Inkjet Printers
______ printers allow printing on multipart forms and are relatively inexpensive compared to laser printers of the same vintage.
______ printers allow printing on multipart forms and are relatively inexpensive compared to laser printers of the same vintage.
An important skill for an A+ candidate is to ______ the parts of an inkjet printer
An important skill for an A+ candidate is to ______ the parts of an inkjet printer
Calibration is the process by which an inkjet printer is brought within functional specifications, typically running a ______ routine every time new ink cartridges are installed
Calibration is the process by which an inkjet printer is brought within functional specifications, typically running a ______ routine every time new ink cartridges are installed
The printer ______ converts the data being printed into a format that the printer can understand and sends the information to the printer via the connection method being used
The printer ______ converts the data being printed into a format that the printer can understand and sends the information to the printer via the connection method being used
If the ______ has not printed in a while, it activates a cleaning cycle to purge the print heads of any dried ink
If the ______ has not printed in a while, it activates a cleaning cycle to purge the print heads of any dried ink
Paper feed ______ tell the printer when it is out of paper or when a paper jam has occurred
Paper feed ______ tell the printer when it is out of paper or when a paper jam has occurred
The inkjet ______ process consists of several steps initiated by clicking the Print button in the software
The inkjet ______ process consists of several steps initiated by clicking the Print button in the software
Printer companies make the majority of their profits from ink cartridge sales, as cartridges have a high profit margin.
Printer companies make the majority of their profits from ink cartridge sales, as cartridges have a high profit margin.
The print head in an inkjet printer contains small ______ that spray ink onto the page, and it is usually part of the ink cartridge.
The print head in an inkjet printer contains small ______ that spray ink onto the page, and it is usually part of the ink cartridge.
Ink cartridges have small chambers with ______ used to spray ink on the page to form characters and images as patterns of dots.
Ink cartridges have small chambers with ______ used to spray ink on the page to form characters and images as patterns of dots.
There are two methods of spraying ink out of the cartridge: ______.
There are two methods of spraying ink out of the cartridge: ______.
After printing, the print head moves back to the ______, which contains a small suction pump and ink-absorbing pad to keep the print head in working order.
After printing, the print head moves back to the ______, which contains a small suction pump and ink-absorbing pad to keep the print head in working order.
The ______ are components that make the print head move back and forth during printing, with the stepper motor moving in precise increments.
The ______ are components that make the print head move back and forth during printing, with the stepper motor moving in precise increments.
The ______ picks up paper from the paper drawer and feeds it into the printer, consisting of pickup rollers and separator pads to ensure only one sheet goes into the printer.
The ______ picks up paper from the paper drawer and feeds it into the printer, consisting of pickup rollers and separator pads to ensure only one sheet goes into the printer.
What is the purpose of the cleaning step in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What is the purpose of the cleaning step in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What is the purpose of the transfer corona wire in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What is the purpose of the transfer corona wire in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What makes thermal direct printers have long lives compared to other printers?
What makes thermal direct printers have long lives compared to other printers?
What is the special characteristic of thermal paper used in thermal printers?
What is the special characteristic of thermal paper used in thermal printers?
What distinguishes thermal transfer printers from thermal direct printers?
What distinguishes thermal transfer printers from thermal direct printers?
What is the primary difference between thermal direct and thermal transfer printers?
What is the primary difference between thermal direct and thermal transfer printers?
What does the fusing assembly in a laser printer use to fuse toner particles to the paper?
What does the fusing assembly in a laser printer use to fuse toner particles to the paper?
What is the purpose of the transfer corona assembly in a laser printer?
What is the purpose of the transfer corona assembly in a laser printer?
What is the function of the printer controller assembly in a laser printer?
What is the function of the printer controller assembly in a laser printer?
What is the purpose of the ozone filter in older laser printers?
What is the purpose of the ozone filter in older laser printers?
What allows modern laser printers to print on both sides of the paper?
What allows modern laser printers to print on both sides of the paper?
What are the two types of transfer corona assemblies in a laser printer?
What are the two types of transfer corona assemblies in a laser printer?
What is the first step in the Electro-Photographic (EP) process used by laser printers?
What is the first step in the Electro-Photographic (EP) process used by laser printers?
What is the purpose of the transferring step in the EP process of laser printers?
What is the purpose of the transferring step in the EP process of laser printers?
What is the role of the EP cartridge in the laser printer's EP process?
What is the role of the EP cartridge in the laser printer's EP process?
Which component plays a key role in the EP process of laser printers by transferring toner to the exposed areas on the drum?
Which component plays a key role in the EP process of laser printers by transferring toner to the exposed areas on the drum?
What manages the EP process in a laser printer, orchestrating each step in sequence?
What manages the EP process in a laser printer, orchestrating each step in sequence?
What makes the toner image permanent by melting it into the paper with heat and pressure in the EP process of laser printers?
What makes the toner image permanent by melting it into the paper with heat and pressure in the EP process of laser printers?
What component of an EP printer holds toner, a black carbon substance mixed with polyester resins and iron oxide particles?
What component of an EP printer holds toner, a black carbon substance mixed with polyester resins and iron oxide particles?
What is the function of the transfer corona assembly in an EP printer?
What is the function of the transfer corona assembly in an EP printer?
In an EP printer, what is the role of the laser scanning assembly?
In an EP printer, what is the role of the laser scanning assembly?
What is the purpose of the DC power supply (DCPS) in an EP printer?
What is the purpose of the DC power supply (DCPS) in an EP printer?
What does the high-voltage power supply (HVPS) do in an EP printer?
What does the high-voltage power supply (HVPS) do in an EP printer?
What does the paper transport assembly consist of in an EP printer?
What does the paper transport assembly consist of in an EP printer?
What is the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process primarily used in?
What is the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process primarily used in?
Who were the pioneers in developing the laser printer technology?
Who were the pioneers in developing the laser printer technology?
What technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and toner?
What technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and toner?
What is the role of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the EP imaging process?
What is the role of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the EP imaging process?
When were the scientists at Xerox credited with developing the EP imaging process?
When were the scientists at Xerox credited with developing the EP imaging process?
What is the primary difference between the two major types of page printers using the EP imaging process?
What is the primary difference between the two major types of page printers using the EP imaging process?
During the transferring step, the toner is attracted to the paper due to ______
During the transferring step, the toner is attracted to the paper due to ______
Charging step involves applying a strong, uniform ______ to the photosensitive drum
Charging step involves applying a strong, uniform ______ to the photosensitive drum
Different components like the charging corona, ______, and fuser rollers play key roles in the EP process
Different components like the charging corona, ______, and fuser rollers play key roles in the EP process
The EP process involves steps like charging, exposing, developing, transferring, fusing, and ______
The EP process involves steps like charging, exposing, developing, transferring, fusing, and ______
The EP process is managed by the ______, which orchestrates each step in sequence
The EP process is managed by the ______, which orchestrates each step in sequence
The exposing step uses a ______ to reduce the drum’s charge in areas to be printed
The exposing step uses a ______ to reduce the drum’s charge in areas to be printed
Thermal printing technology is used in many point-of-sale (POS) terminals and older fax machines. (Newer fax machines usually use inkjet or ______ technology.)
Thermal printing technology is used in many point-of-sale (POS) terminals and older fax machines. (Newer fax machines usually use inkjet or ______ technology.)
The printer places a uniform –600VDC charge on the photosensitive drum by means of a charging ______.
The printer places a uniform –600VDC charge on the photosensitive drum by means of a charging ______.
The image is then transferred from the drum to the paper at its line of contact by means of the transfer corona wire (or corona roller) with a +600VDC ______.
The image is then transferred from the drum to the paper at its line of contact by means of the transfer corona wire (or corona roller) with a +600VDC ______.
The printer uses a rubber scraper to clean the photosensitive ______.
The printer uses a rubber scraper to clean the photosensitive ______.
The only unique part that you might not be as familiar with is the paper feed assembly, which often needs to accommodate a roll of paper instead of ______.
The only unique part that you might not be as familiar with is the paper feed assembly, which often needs to accommodate a roll of paper instead of ______.
Thermal direct printers typically have long lives because they have few moving parts. The only unique part that you might not be as familiar with is the paper feed assembly, which often needs to accommodate a roll of paper instead of ______.
Thermal direct printers typically have long lives because they have few moving parts. The only unique part that you might not be as familiar with is the paper feed assembly, which often needs to accommodate a roll of paper instead of ______.
EP printers using EP imaging process contain nine standard assemblies: ______, laser scanner, high-voltage power supply, DC power supply, paper transport assembly, transfer corona, fusing assembly, printer controller circuitry, and ozone filter.
EP printers using EP imaging process contain nine standard assemblies: ______, laser scanner, high-voltage power supply, DC power supply, paper transport assembly, transfer corona, fusing assembly, printer controller circuitry, and ozone filter.
The ______ cartridge holds ______, a black carbon substance mixed with polyester resins and iron oxide particles, and contains the EP print drum coated with a photosensitive material.
The ______ cartridge holds ______, a black carbon substance mixed with polyester resins and iron oxide particles, and contains the EP print drum coated with a photosensitive material.
The laser scanning assembly exposes the ______ photosensitive drum to light, discharging it only in the exposed area, thus scanning the image onto it.
The laser scanning assembly exposes the ______ photosensitive drum to light, discharging it only in the exposed area, thus scanning the image onto it.
The high-voltage power supply (______) converts AC current from a standard wall outlet into higher voltages used during the EP process.
The high-voltage power supply (______) converts AC current from a standard wall outlet into higher voltages used during the EP process.
The ______ consists of a motor and rubberized rollers for moving the paper through the printer.
The ______ consists of a motor and rubberized rollers for moving the paper through the printer.
The ______ is where toner sticks to the exposed areas on the photosensitive drum.
The ______ is where toner sticks to the exposed areas on the photosensitive drum.
Two types of ______ corona assemblies exist: wire and roller, with the roller supporting higher speeds.
Two types of ______ corona assemblies exist: wire and roller, with the roller supporting higher speeds.
The fusing assembly uses pressure and heat from two rollers to fuse toner particles to the paper.
The fusing assembly uses pressure and heat from two rollers to fuse toner particles to the paper.
The printer ______ assembly converts computer signals into commands for the printer's components using rasterizing.
The printer ______ assembly converts computer signals into commands for the printer's components using rasterizing.
Ozone, created by high-voltage coronas inside the printer, is removed by an ______ filter in older printers to prevent damage to components.
Ozone, created by high-voltage coronas inside the printer, is removed by an ______ filter in older printers to prevent damage to components.
The electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in laser printers consists of seven major steps, including processing, charging, exposing, ______, transferring, fusing, and cleaning.
The electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in laser printers consists of seven major steps, including processing, charging, exposing, ______, transferring, fusing, and cleaning.
Printing cannot start until the ______ is in a ready state, indicated by an illuminated Ready LED light or a specific display message.
Printing cannot start until the ______ is in a ready state, indicated by an illuminated Ready LED light or a specific display message.
Xerox, Hewlett-Packard, and Canon were pioneers in developing the laser printer technology we use today. Scientists at Xerox developed the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in 1971. HP introduced the first successful desktop laser printer in 1984, using Canon hardware that used the EP process. This technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and a black powdery ink-like substance called ______. Printers that use this technology are called EP process laser printers, or just laser printers. Every laser printer technology has its foundations in the EP printer imaging process. Let’s discuss the basic components of the EP laser printer and how they operate so that you can understand the way an EP laser printer works.
Xerox, Hewlett-Packard, and Canon were pioneers in developing the laser printer technology we use today. Scientists at Xerox developed the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in 1971. HP introduced the first successful desktop laser printer in 1984, using Canon hardware that used the EP process. This technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and a black powdery ink-like substance called ______. Printers that use this technology are called EP process laser printers, or just laser printers. Every laser printer technology has its foundations in the EP printer imaging process. Let’s discuss the basic components of the EP laser printer and how they operate so that you can understand the way an EP laser printer works.
Laser Printers Laser printers and inkjet printers are referred to as ______ because they receive their print job instructions one page at a time rather than receiving instructions one line at a time. There are two major types of page printers that use the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process. The first uses a laser to scan the image onto a photosensitive drum, and the second uses an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to create the image on the drum. Even though they write the image in different ways, both types still follow the laser printer imaging process. Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same here.
Laser Printers Laser printers and inkjet printers are referred to as ______ because they receive their print job instructions one page at a time rather than receiving instructions one line at a time. There are two major types of page printers that use the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process. The first uses a laser to scan the image onto a photosensitive drum, and the second uses an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to create the image on the drum. Even though they write the image in different ways, both types still follow the laser printer imaging process. Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same here.
Even though they write the image in different ways, both types still follow the ______ imaging process. Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same here.
Even though they write the image in different ways, both types still follow the ______ imaging process. Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same here.
Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same ______.
Since the A+ exam focuses on the laser printer imaging process and not on differences between laser and LED, we’ll focus on the same ______.
Scientists at Xerox developed the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in ______.
Scientists at Xerox developed the electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in ______.
HP introduced the first successful desktop laser printer in 1984, using Canon hardware that used the EP process. This technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and a black powdery ink-like substance called ______.
HP introduced the first successful desktop laser printer in 1984, using Canon hardware that used the EP process. This technology uses a combination of static electric charges, laser light, and a black powdery ink-like substance called ______.
What is the purpose of virtual printing?
What is the purpose of virtual printing?
How does the virtual printing process differ from physical printing?
How does the virtual printing process differ from physical printing?
What is the function of the 'Print To File' option in virtual printing?
What is the function of the 'Print To File' option in virtual printing?
When might a user choose the option of printing to a file?
When might a user choose the option of printing to a file?
How long has the option of printing to a file been available?
How long has the option of printing to a file been available?
What happens after a user selects the 'Print To File' option and clicks OK?
What happens after a user selects the 'Print To File' option and clicks OK?
What is the primary advantage of page-description languages like PostScript and PCL?
What is the primary advantage of page-description languages like PostScript and PCL?
What distinguishes GDI printers from PostScript and PCL printers?
What distinguishes GDI printers from PostScript and PCL printers?
Why are GDI printers generally considered the least expensive?
Why are GDI printers generally considered the least expensive?
What is the main role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What is the main role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What makes page-description languages an ideal choice for laser printers?
What makes page-description languages an ideal choice for laser printers?
What is the function of the transfer corona in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What is the function of the transfer corona in the EP imaging process for laser printers?
What is the primary purpose of printing to a PDF file?
What is the primary purpose of printing to a PDF file?
Which of the following is a potential option for printing to a virtual printer?
Which of the following is a potential option for printing to a virtual printer?
What is the primary material used in most home 3D printers?
What is the primary material used in most home 3D printers?
What is the role of the extruder in a 3D printer?
What is the role of the extruder in a 3D printer?
What is another option for printing besides printing to PDF?
What is another option for printing besides printing to PDF?
What is a common method for printing to PDF from Windows-based applications?
What is a common method for printing to PDF from Windows-based applications?
What is the industry standard for parallel communications?
What is the industry standard for parallel communications?
Which wired printer interface has the highest transfer rate and easy connectivity?
Which wired printer interface has the highest transfer rate and easy connectivity?
What are the three most common page-description languages for printers?
What are the three most common page-description languages for printers?
What is the latest trend in printer interface technology?
What is the latest trend in printer interface technology?
What is the role of interface software in computer and printer communication?
What is the role of interface software in computer and printer communication?
Which wireless standards are supported by wireless printers?
Which wireless standards are supported by wireless printers?
What is the most common filament size for 3D printing?
What is the most common filament size for 3D printing?
What is the primary purpose of the 3D printer's app or interface panel?
What is the primary purpose of the 3D printer's app or interface panel?
What is the function of the transfer corona assembly in an EP printer?
What is the function of the transfer corona assembly in an EP printer?
What is the role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What is the role of the printer driver in the printing process?
What type of communication involves sending data 1 bit at a time?
What type of communication involves sending data 1 bit at a time?
What can higher-end 3D printers create that demonstrates their capabilities?
What can higher-end 3D printers create that demonstrates their capabilities?
Explain the concept of virtual printing and how it differs from physical printing.
Explain the concept of virtual printing and how it differs from physical printing.
How do users initiate virtual printing and what are the steps involved in the process?
How do users initiate virtual printing and what are the steps involved in the process?
What is the history of virtual printing and how long has this option been available?
What is the history of virtual printing and how long has this option been available?
What are the advantages of virtual printing over physical printing?
What are the advantages of virtual printing over physical printing?
Why did people traditionally choose the virtual printing option?
Why did people traditionally choose the virtual printing option?
What are the steps involved in enabling virtual printing and where is the output saved?
What are the steps involved in enabling virtual printing and where is the output saved?
Explain the significance of IEEE 1284 in parallel communication for printers.
Explain the significance of IEEE 1284 in parallel communication for printers.
What are the three most common page-description languages used for printer interface software?
What are the three most common page-description languages used for printer interface software?
Describe the characteristics of wireless printer interface technology and its latest trend.
Describe the characteristics of wireless printer interface technology and its latest trend.
What are the main advantages of using Universal Serial Bus (USB) as a wired printer interface?
What are the main advantages of using Universal Serial Bus (USB) as a wired printer interface?
Why are parallel printers uncommon today despite the popularity of parallel communication in the past?
Why are parallel printers uncommon today despite the popularity of parallel communication in the past?
Why is interface software essential for computers and printers to communicate effectively?
Why is interface software essential for computers and printers to communicate effectively?
Explain the process of printing to a PDF file from Windows-based applications and the options available for this functionality.
Explain the process of printing to a PDF file from Windows-based applications and the options available for this functionality.
Describe the components of a 3D printer and its functionality in creating three-dimensional products.
Describe the components of a 3D printer and its functionality in creating three-dimensional products.
What are the potential options for printing to a virtual printer and which one is considered the most useful?
What are the potential options for printing to a virtual printer and which one is considered the most useful?
Explain the availability and usage of 3D printers in both manufacturing environments and home use.
Explain the availability and usage of 3D printers in both manufacturing environments and home use.
How can users print a file as a PDF and then convert it to an image file if a program doesn't support printing to an image format?
How can users print a file as a PDF and then convert it to an image file if a program doesn't support printing to an image format?
What are the different types of material that filament comes in, and how many options are available?
What are the different types of material that filament comes in, and how many options are available?
What are the main differences between PostScript, PCL, and GDI page-description languages for printers?
What are the main differences between PostScript, PCL, and GDI page-description languages for printers?
What is the advantage of page-description languages for printers, especially for documents with graphics and numerous fonts?
What is the advantage of page-description languages for printers, especially for documents with graphics and numerous fonts?
What is the primary function of GDI printers and why are they generally considered less expensive?
What is the primary function of GDI printers and why are they generally considered less expensive?
How do newer printers handle both PS, PCL, and GDI, and what does this mean for users installing printer drivers?
How do newer printers handle both PS, PCL, and GDI, and what does this mean for users installing printer drivers?
What is the role of page-description languages in the printing process for different types of printers?
What is the role of page-description languages in the printing process for different types of printers?
What is the role of the processor in the printing process for PostScript page-description language?
What is the role of the processor in the printing process for PostScript page-description language?
What are the two most popular 3D printing materials and their characteristics?
What are the two most popular 3D printing materials and their characteristics?
What are the two filament sizes commonly used for 3D printing?
What are the two filament sizes commonly used for 3D printing?
What are the key steps involved in the 3D printing process?
What are the key steps involved in the 3D printing process?
What capabilities can higher-end 3D printers offer in terms of creating components?
What capabilities can higher-end 3D printers offer in terms of creating components?
What are the types of printer interfaces and their components?
What are the types of printer interfaces and their components?
How do retailers and computer manufacturers make printers widely accessible?
How do retailers and computer manufacturers make printers widely accessible?
What must a printer driver be specifically written for?
What must a printer driver be specifically written for?
What happens if the wrong printer driver is selected?
What happens if the wrong printer driver is selected?
What is the role of the transfer corona in a laser printer?
What is the role of the transfer corona in a laser printer?
What is the function of the page-description language in a printer driver?
What is the function of the page-description language in a printer driver?
What does the term 'printer' refer to in a Windows-based operating system?
What does the term 'printer' refer to in a Windows-based operating system?
What is the primary purpose of the printer controller assembly in a laser printer?
What is the primary purpose of the printer controller assembly in a laser printer?
What can reduce the shelf life of a printer?
What can reduce the shelf life of a printer?
What is a potential consequence of exposing a laser printer's photosensitive drum to light?
What is a potential consequence of exposing a laser printer's photosensitive drum to light?
What is a by-product of the printing process in laser printers that can be dangerous in large amounts?
What is a by-product of the printing process in laser printers that can be dangerous in large amounts?
What is a potential consequence of using ammonia-based cleaners near laser printers?
What is a potential consequence of using ammonia-based cleaners near laser printers?
What is the primary purpose of upgrading a printer's firmware?
What is the primary purpose of upgrading a printer's firmware?
What is the benefit of adding a paper tray to a printer?
What is the benefit of adding a paper tray to a printer?
What is the primary function of Bonjour in network printing?
What is the primary function of Bonjour in network printing?
What is the key feature of AirPrint introduced by Apple in 2010?
What is the key feature of AirPrint introduced by Apple in 2010?
What is the main difference between local and network printer installation?
What is the main difference between local and network printer installation?
What is the purpose of TCP printing in network printing?
What is the purpose of TCP printing in network printing?
What is the role of Cloud in modern printing technology?
What is the role of Cloud in modern printing technology?
What is the function of the separate hardware print server in network printing?
What is the function of the separate hardware print server in network printing?
Which type of printer uses specific toner cartridges, and it's important to use the correct one for the model?
Which type of printer uses specific toner cartridges, and it's important to use the correct one for the model?
What is the potential risk of using recycled toner or ink cartridges in printers?
What is the potential risk of using recycled toner or ink cartridges in printers?
What is crucial for high-load printers in terms of maintenance?
What is crucial for high-load printers in terms of maintenance?
What is one way to address data privacy concerns when printing to public or shared printers?
What is one way to address data privacy concerns when printing to public or shared printers?
What is a key factor to consider when choosing paper for a printer?
What is a key factor to consider when choosing paper for a printer?
What is the purpose of the self-cleaning utilities in printers?
What is the purpose of the self-cleaning utilities in printers?
What is the easiest way to damage a printer?
What is the easiest way to damage a printer?
What can help resolve print quality issues in printers?
What can help resolve print quality issues in printers?
What environmental factor can affect printers and require specialized cleaning for thermal printers?
What environmental factor can affect printers and require specialized cleaning for thermal printers?
What is the main purpose of using high-quality, manufacturer-recommended supplies for printers?
What is the main purpose of using high-quality, manufacturer-recommended supplies for printers?
What can cause paper jams or damage in printers if not suitable for the printer?
What can cause paper jams or damage in printers if not suitable for the printer?
What is the function of impact printers and thermal printers in relation to paper?
What is the function of impact printers and thermal printers in relation to paper?
Explain the importance of having the correct printer driver installed for the operating system and printer being used.
Explain the importance of having the correct printer driver installed for the operating system and printer being used.
What are the potential consequences of selecting the wrong printer driver?
What are the potential consequences of selecting the wrong printer driver?
Describe the role of the printer driver in determining the page-description language used for printing.
Describe the role of the printer driver in determining the page-description language used for printing.
Why is it necessary for different operating systems to have specific printer drivers?
Why is it necessary for different operating systems to have specific printer drivers?
How does the printer driver enable the selection of specific printer features?
How does the printer driver enable the selection of specific printer features?
Explain the significance of the printer driver in ensuring proper communication between the computer and the physical print device.
Explain the significance of the printer driver in ensuring proper communication between the computer and the physical print device.
What potential issues can high humidity cause for laser printers? Provide specific examples of how high humidity can impact printer performance.
What potential issues can high humidity cause for laser printers? Provide specific examples of how high humidity can impact printer performance.
What potential risks are associated with exposure to light for the photosensitive drum in a laser printer's toner cartridge?
What potential risks are associated with exposure to light for the photosensitive drum in a laser printer's toner cartridge?
What are the potential health and operational risks associated with ozone produced as a by-product of the printing process in laser printers?
What are the potential health and operational risks associated with ozone produced as a by-product of the printing process in laser printers?
What potential damage can ammonia-based cleaners cause to laser printers? Why is it recommended to avoid using such cleaners near laser printers?
What potential damage can ammonia-based cleaners cause to laser printers? Why is it recommended to avoid using such cleaners near laser printers?
What are the main reasons for upgrading a printer’s firmware, and how is this typically done?
What are the main reasons for upgrading a printer’s firmware, and how is this typically done?
What problem do printer-resident fonts pose, and how can adding a hard drive to a printer help resolve this issue?
What problem do printer-resident fonts pose, and how can adding a hard drive to a printer help resolve this issue?
Explain the potential risks associated with using recycled toner or ink cartridges in printers.
Explain the potential risks associated with using recycled toner or ink cartridges in printers.
What is the importance of scheduled maintenance for printers?
What is the importance of scheduled maintenance for printers?
What are some common components of scheduled maintenance for printers?
What are some common components of scheduled maintenance for printers?
How can routine maintenance and cleaning kits help resolve print quality issues in printers?
How can routine maintenance and cleaning kits help resolve print quality issues in printers?
What environmental issues can affect printers, and how can they be mitigated?
What environmental issues can affect printers, and how can they be mitigated?
What are the potential consequences of not using the correct toner cartridge for a laser printer?
What are the potential consequences of not using the correct toner cartridge for a laser printer?
Explain the importance of regular maintenance for printers and the potential consequences of neglecting proper upkeep.
Explain the importance of regular maintenance for printers and the potential consequences of neglecting proper upkeep.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing paper for a printer, and why is it important to use suitable paper?
What are the key factors to consider when choosing paper for a printer, and why is it important to use suitable paper?
How do cloud printing services like Google Cloud Print and HP ePrint facilitate remote printing, and what measures can be taken to address data privacy concerns?
How do cloud printing services like Google Cloud Print and HP ePrint facilitate remote printing, and what measures can be taken to address data privacy concerns?
What are the potential consequences of using the wrong ink or toner supplies for a printer, and why is it important to use recommended supplies?
What are the potential consequences of using the wrong ink or toner supplies for a printer, and why is it important to use recommended supplies?
Why is it crucial to use high-quality, manufacturer-recommended supplies for printer maintenance, and how can using improper supplies impact the printer?
Why is it crucial to use high-quality, manufacturer-recommended supplies for printer maintenance, and how can using improper supplies impact the printer?
What are the special paper requirements for impact printers and thermal printers, and why is it important to load special paper properly for thermal printers?
What are the special paper requirements for impact printers and thermal printers, and why is it important to load special paper properly for thermal printers?
Explain the purpose of Bonjour in the context of network printing technology.
Explain the purpose of Bonjour in the context of network printing technology.
What is the role of AirPrint in the context of network printing technology?
What is the role of AirPrint in the context of network printing technology?
How does TCP printing differ from traditional network printing methods?
How does TCP printing differ from traditional network printing methods?
What are the two major varieties of print servers and how do they differ?
What are the two major varieties of print servers and how do they differ?
What is the primary function of a print server in a network printing environment?
What is the primary function of a print server in a network printing environment?
In what way does cloud technology impact modern printing practices?
In what way does cloud technology impact modern printing practices?
Study Notes
Types of Impact and Inkjet Printers
- Daisy-wheel printers are among the oldest printing technologies, containing a wheel with raised letters and symbols on each petal.
- These impact printers have a slow speed, initially printing only two to four characters per second, and produce a lot of noise.
- Daisy-wheel printers allow printing on multipart forms and are relatively inexpensive compared to laser printers of the same vintage.
- Dot-matrix printers work similarly to daisy-wheel printers, with a print head containing a row of pins triggered in patterns to form letters and numbers.
- Early dot-matrix printers have poor image quality referred to as draft quality, but as more pins were developed, the quality improved to near letter quality.
- Dot-matrix printers are noisy but have a faster print speed, typically starting around 72 characters per second, and can use multipart forms.
- Inkjet printers spray ink on the page to form the image and typically use a reservoir of ink, a pump, and a nozzle.
- Older inkjet printers were messy, noisy, and inefficient, but the technology has improved, and they are commonly used for photo printing.
- Inkjets are simple devices, containing fewer parts than dot-matrix printers, and are inexpensive to manufacture.
- Inkjet printers have print head/ink cartridge, head carriage, belt, and stepper motor, paper feed mechanism, and control, interface, and power circuitry as their main parts.
- Inkjet printers are now affordable, with some models priced at $40 to $50, offering print quality that rivals basic laser printers.
- The term "bubble-jet printers" is copyrighted by Canon and refers to inkjet printers that spray droplets of ink in a high-definition dot-matrix pattern.
Inkjet Printers: Components and Profit Model
- Printer companies make the majority of their profits from ink cartridge sales, as cartridges have a high profit margin.
- The print head in an inkjet printer contains small nozzles that spray ink onto the page, and it is usually part of the ink cartridge.
- Ink cartridges have small chambers with pinholes used to spray ink on the page to form characters and images as patterns of dots.
- There are two methods of spraying ink out of the cartridge: heating elements causing ink vaporization (HP method) and piezoelectric elements flexing when energized (Epson method).
- After printing, the print head moves back to the maintenance station, which contains a small suction pump and ink-absorbing pad to keep the print head in working order.
- The head carriage, belt, and stepper motor are components that make the print head move back and forth during printing, with the stepper motor moving in precise increments.
- The paper feed mechanism picks up paper from the paper drawer and feeds it into the printer, consisting of pickup rollers and separator pads to ensure only one sheet goes into the printer.
- The pickup rollers are turned on a shaft by the pickup stepper motor and are cleaned with mild soap and water, not alcohol.
- Sometimes the paper fed into an inkjet printer is placed into a paper tray in the front of the printer, holding the paper until it is fed into the printer by the paper feed mechanism.
Key Components of EP Printers
- EP printers using EP imaging process contain nine standard assemblies: toner cartridge, laser scanner, high-voltage power supply, DC power supply, paper transport assembly, transfer corona, fusing assembly, printer controller circuitry, and ozone filter.
- The toner cartridge holds toner, a black carbon substance mixed with polyester resins and iron oxide particles, and contains the EP print drum coated with a photosensitive material.
- Toner also contains a medium called the developer, carrying the toner until used by the EP process.
- Some laser printers have toner and photosensitive drum as a single unit, while others allow separate replacement.
- Never ship a printer with a toner cartridge installed to avoid spillage and mess.
- The laser scanning assembly exposes the EP photosensitive drum to light, discharging it only in the exposed area, thus scanning the image onto it.
- Laser light is enclosed and only operates when the printer cover is closed to prevent eye damage.
- The high-voltage power supply (HVPS) converts AC current from a standard wall outlet into higher voltages used during the EP process.
- The DC power supply (DCPS) converts high voltages used in the EP process into low voltages for logic circuitry and motors.
- The paper transport assembly consists of a motor and rubberized rollers for moving the paper through the printer.
- The feed roller pushes one sheet into the printer, while the registration rollers synchronize paper movement with the image-formation process.
- The transfer corona assembly is where toner sticks to the exposed areas on the photosensitive drum.
Laser Printer Components and Functions
- The transfer corona assembly transfers toner from the photosensitive drum to the paper using high-voltage charge.
- It contains a static-charge eliminator strip to prevent paper from sticking to the EP cartridge and jamming the printer.
- Two types of transfer corona assemblies exist: wire and roller, with the roller supporting higher speeds.
- The fusing assembly uses pressure and heat from two rollers to fuse toner particles to the paper.
- The fuser consists of a halogen heating lamp, Teflon-coated aluminum-fusing roller, and a rubberized pressure roller.
- The printer controller assembly converts computer signals into commands for the printer's components using rasterizing.
- Ozone, created by high-voltage coronas inside the printer, is removed by an ozone filter in older printers to prevent damage to components.
- Most newer laser printers don't have ozone filters due to reduced ozone emissions from using transfer corona rollers.
- Duplexing assembly allows modern laser printers to print on both sides of the paper.
- The electrophotographic (EP) imaging process in laser printers consists of seven major steps, including processing, charging, exposing, developing, transferring, fusing, and cleaning.
- Printing cannot start until the printer is in a ready state, indicated by an illuminated Ready LED light or a specific display message.
- The processing step in EP imaging involves receiving the image from the computer and creating the print job accurately for producing the output.
3D Printing and Printers: Key Concepts and Components
- Polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) are the most popular 3D printing materials, each with different characteristics.
- The most common filament size for 3D printing is 1.75 mm, with 3.0 mm (2.85 mm thick) being the original size still in use.
- The 3D printer's app or interface panel facilitates the straightforward process of replacing filament.
- The 3D printing process involves designing the object using computer-aided design (CAD) software, exporting the file as .STL, slicing the object into layers, and sending the job to the printer.
- Small print jobs may take over an hour, while larger ones may take days to complete, depending on the printer and object size.
- Higher-end 3D printers can create components that move, such as hinges and latches.
- Many inkjet and laser printers today offer multifunctional capabilities, including copying, scanning, and faxing.
- A printer's interface is the collection of hardware and software that allows it to communicate with a computer, with each printer having at least one interface.
- Printer interface components include the hardware interface, interface type, and interface software.
- Interface types for printers include wired (serial, parallel, USB, Ethernet) and wireless (802.11, Bluetooth) options.
- Serial communication involves sending data 1 bit at a time, while parallel communication involves receiving data 8 bits at a time over eight separate wires.
- Many retailers and computer manufacturers bundle printers with computer systems as an incentive to purchase, making printers widely accessible.
3D Printing and Printers: Key Concepts and Components
- Polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) are the most popular 3D printing materials, each with different characteristics.
- The most common filament size for 3D printing is 1.75 mm, with 3.0 mm (2.85 mm thick) being the original size still in use.
- The 3D printer's app or interface panel facilitates the straightforward process of replacing filament.
- The 3D printing process involves designing the object using computer-aided design (CAD) software, exporting the file as .STL, slicing the object into layers, and sending the job to the printer.
- Small print jobs may take over an hour, while larger ones may take days to complete, depending on the printer and object size.
- Higher-end 3D printers can create components that move, such as hinges and latches.
- Many inkjet and laser printers today offer multifunctional capabilities, including copying, scanning, and faxing.
- A printer's interface is the collection of hardware and software that allows it to communicate with a computer, with each printer having at least one interface.
- Printer interface components include the hardware interface, interface type, and interface software.
- Interface types for printers include wired (serial, parallel, USB, Ethernet) and wireless (802.11, Bluetooth) options.
- Serial communication involves sending data 1 bit at a time, while parallel communication involves receiving data 8 bits at a time over eight separate wires.
- Many retailers and computer manufacturers bundle printers with computer systems as an incentive to purchase, making printers widely accessible.
Cloud Printing and Printer Maintenance
- Cloud printing allows printing to a remote device via the Internet, through services like Google Cloud Print and HP ePrint.
- Data privacy concerns arise when printing to public or shared printers, which can be addressed through features like Secure Printing offered by printer manufacturers.
- Storing print jobs on print servers can pose a security issue due to hard drive caching, which can be mitigated by configuring printer properties.
- Regular maintenance is crucial for printers to ensure their longevity and proper functioning, including replacing consumables and performing check-ups.
- Proper maintenance involves using high-quality, manufacturer-recommended supplies to avoid damaging the printer or voiding the warranty.
- The type of paper used in printers significantly impacts the printout quality and can cause paper jams or damage if not suitable for the printer.
- Paper composition, basis weight, and caliper are key factors to consider when choosing paper for a printer, with specifications provided in the printer's documentation.
- Impact printers require special paper with tractor feed perforations, and thermal printers need to load special paper properly to avoid issues.
- Using the wrong ink or toner supplies is the easiest way to damage a printer, emphasizing the importance of using recommended supplies.
- Printers can handle over 100,000 pages per month and require maintenance to ensure smooth operation and to avoid frustrating experiences due to printer malfunctions.
- The text highlights the importance of maintaining printers and using proper supplies to ensure their reliability and longevity, as well as the impact of paper type on printout quality and printer performance.
- Cloud printing services such as Google Cloud Print and HP ePrint facilitate printing to remote devices through the Internet, with data privacy concerns addressed through features like Secure Printing offered by printer manufacturers.
Printer Installation and Network Printing Methods
- Printer can print multiple pages of "garbage" if page-description language commands are printed as text instead of being interpreted as control commands.
- Standard procedure for installing devices involves attaching the device using a local port, installing and updating the device driver, calibrating the device, configuring options and settings, printing a test page, verifying compatibility with the operating system and applications, and educating users about basic functionality.
- Local network printing involves moving the print server to another location accessible to other users on the network.
- Two major varieties of print servers exist: integrated print server incorporated into the printer itself, and a separate hardware print server.
- Installing and using a networked printer is similar to installing and using a local printer, but requires telling the computer that a networked printer is being added.
- Print server needs to have drivers available for all types of clients connecting to its printers (e.g., Mac, Linux, Windows 10).
- TCP printing sends print jobs directly to the printer, bypassing the need for the system to act as the print server or deal with formatting the print job.
- Bonjour is an implementation of zero configuration networking by Apple, designed for automatic discovery of devices and services on local networks using TCP/IP.
- Bonjour makes it easy to discover and install printers shared by other Bonjour-enabled clients on the network and works on various operating systems.
- AirPrint, introduced by Apple in 2010, allows mobile devices to automatically detect AirPrint-enabled printers on the local network and print to them without requiring the installation of a driver.
- Cloud has replaced wireless networking as the trend du jour, and not everyone knows what it is or what it does, but they think they are supposed to have it.
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Description
Test your knowledge of impact and inkjet printers with this quiz! Learn about the different types of impact printers such as daisy-wheel and dot-matrix, as well as the features and advancements of inkjet printers. See how much you know about these essential printing technologies.
