Printers

Printers

1. They are a common output device.

   • They are used to produce a 'hard copy' of your digital work.
   • Most printers print onto paper but some are able to print directly onto CD or DVD disks with a suitable holder.
   • A major factor with printers is the cost of ink.
   • There are 4 main types of printers (including plotters).

2. Laser Printers

   • Advantages
     • high quality printouts that are better than ink-jet or dot matrix (and can be in colour).
     • Prints faster than ink-jet or dot matrix
     • Prints more quietly than ink jet or dot matrix
     • cost per page is cheaper than ink-jet or dot matrix
   • Used in:
     • many workplaces
   • Disadvantages
     • Most expensive printer to buy

3. Ink-Jet

   • Advantages
     • Cheaper to buy than a laser printer
     • More compact that a laser printer
     • Cartriges cost less toreplace than Laser printers' toners.
     • Produce good quality printouts that are better than dot matrix (but not as good as laser.)
     • Faster than a dot matrix (but not as fast as a laser)

4. Dot Matrix

   • Advantages
     • Relatively cheap to buy
     • Low operating costs
     • can print on continuous stationary
     • Can create carbon copies using carbonated paper
     • Robust and will work perfectly well in harsh or dirty condidtion such as garages or factories

5. Plotters

   • Advantages
     • Drawings are of the same quality as if an expert drew them
     • Larger sizes of paper can be used than other printers can manage.