How Does a Dot Matrix Printer Work?
Dot matrix printing use impact to move the print head horizontally or vertically to print on pages. This impact is either applied to an ink-soaked ribbon against the paper or directly onto carbon paper forms. More versatile than a typewriter, letters formed from a dot matrix allow for a wider variety of fonts and graphics.
First introduced by the Digital Equipment Corporation in 1970, the dot matrix printer model LA30 boasted being able to print 30 characters per second. The drawbacks, however, were its loud noise and unpredictable paper feed that caused alignment errors. This made printing a hassle, especially in the tight office spaces that it was supposedly manufactured for.
It wasn’t until the release of the Epson MX-80 in 1979 that the popularity of these pressure printers grew. The new printer model refined the metal rod that strikes the paper. These printers became widely popular for being compact and versatile.
Dot matrix printers have moving heads that print what you want line by line. It punches holes through the ribbon and leaves marks — the printout — on the paper. Surpassing typewriters, these printers are capable of intricate symbols and are not restricted to a pre-set template. This lets the printer produce different fonts in different sections of the paper.
Though dot matrix printers follow a similar formula when building every model, they vary in their purpose. Different needs such as speed, quality, and quantity are met with different model variations. If the person has to work with hundreds of documents every day, a model that handles continuous paper feeding would be ideal. Most of these printers can handle printing large quantities throughout the day with little to no paper jams. However, it should be noted that not all models print in high quality or high resolution. Here are some tips on how to troubleshoot common dot-matrix printer problems.