A printer that uses hammers and a ribbon to form images out of dots. It is widely used to print multipart forms and address labels. Also known as a "serial dot matrix printer," the tractor and sprocket mechanism in these devices handles thicker media better than laser and inkjet printers.
Hammers Hit the Ribbon
The dot matrix printer uses one or two columns of dot hammers that are moved across the paper. The hammers hit the ribbon into the paper, which causes the ink to be deposited. The more hammers, the higher the resolution. For example, 9-pin heads produce draft quality text, while 24-pin heads produce typewriter quality output. Speeds range from 200 to 400 cps, which is about 90 to 180 lpm. See line matrix printer.
Dot Matrix Mechanism
Dot matrix printers print columns of dots in a serial fashion. The more dot hammers (pins), the better looking the printed results.
Dot Matrix Printer
Dot matrix printers fitted with a tractor feed are commonly used for printing continuous multipart forms and mailing labels. The tractor feed contains a sprocket that grabs the perforated holes at both sides of the form and pulls it through uniformly.
Hammers Hit the Ribbon
The dot matrix printer uses one or two columns of dot hammers that are moved across the paper. The hammers hit the ribbon into the paper, which causes the ink to be deposited. The more hammers, the higher the resolution. For example, 9-pin heads produce draft quality text, while 24-pin heads produce typewriter quality output. Speeds range from 200 to 400 cps, which is about 90 to 180 lpm. See line matrix printer.
Dot Matrix Mechanism
Dot matrix printers print columns of dots in a serial fashion. The more dot hammers (pins), the better looking the printed results.
Dot Matrix Printer
Dot matrix printers fitted with a tractor feed are commonly used for printing continuous multipart forms and mailing labels. The tractor feed contains a sprocket that grabs the perforated holes at both sides of the form and pulls it through uniformly.
 | Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2008 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved. |
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