Choosing a Dot Matrix Printer
A dot matrix printer prints a lot like typewriters print on paper. The machine uses impact printing where the print head strikes an ink-soaked ribbon against the paper. Unlike a typewriter, the letters come out of a dot matrix, which means varied fonts can be produced. Because the cost is lower per page, impact matrix printers are often favorites in facilities that need to print a lot of copies. Since the machines were developed before the 21st century, you won't find a slot for a memory card on the device itself, but you can print directly from your computer on it.
How Does Dot Matrix Printing Work?
- The print head moves in an up and down motion or a back and forth motion on the page.
- Small dots are produced by a tiny metal rod to form a character.
- The rod strikes the ink-soaked ribbon to leave an impression on the paper.
What are the Pros and Cons of Using a Dot Matrix Printer?
As with any printer, there are pros and cons to using an impact printer. To know if this type of office equipment is right for you and the way you print, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages.
- Pros -
- Long lasting - The design of these machines is to be highly durable and therefore able to last for years. When they do wear out it is typically due to ink getting in the guide plate thus causing it not to print at the same high-standard it once printed.
- Cost per print - Experts report that imprint printing has a very low print cost per page.
- Runs in any environment - One good feature of this type of machine is its ability to work properly in hot and dirty conditions. Therefore, using a dot matrix type printer in an unconditioned warehouse is OK.
- Cons - Although there are a few disadvantages to using a dot matrix printer, they aren't so large that you can't get around them. In fact, those that enjoy using vintage printers don't let a few cons bother them.
- Noisy - Compared to other designs, dot matrix printing makes a lot of noise. This can be a disadvantage if placed in a busy office where employees are using the printer a lot.
- Slower printing - From the time the printer starts to print on the paper till it finishes is noticeably slower than other types of printers. Of course, speed is always an issue.
- Lower resolution - Again, not always a con in the full scheme of printing, impact printing offers a low resolution with limited color performance.
- Specialized paper - The majority of impact printers use a daisy-wheel paper feeding mechanism which requires special continuous-feed media.