Glossary

1. What is a printer?

A printer is an output device that takes digital data from a computer or other device and generates a hard copy (physical copy) of that data, typically on paper. It translates electronic information, such as text and images, into a tangible format.

2. Is a printer input or output?

A printer is an output device. It receives data from a computer (input) and then produces a physical output (a printed document). While some multifunction printers have scanning capabilities (which is an input function), the printing component itself is always an output.

3. What is ADF in a printer?

ADF stands for Automatic Document Feeder.It's a feature on a printer, scanner, or multifunction device that allows you to load multiple pages into a tray, and the machine automatically feeds them one by one for copying, scanning, or faxing, saving you from manually placing each sheet on the scanner glass.

4. What is auto duplex printing?

Auto duplex printing is the ability of a printer to automatically print on both sides of a sheet of paper without manual intervention. This saves paper and time, as you don't need to physically flip the pages to print on the reverse side.

5. How much does a printer cost?

The cost of a printer varies significantly based on its type, features, brand, and intended use. Basic inkjet printers for home use can range from $200 to $300, while more advanced inkjet or monochrome laser printers for small offices might cost $200 to $400. High-end color laser printers, multifunction devices, or specialized printers for businesses can range from $600 to several thousand dollars.

6. How does a laser printer work?

A laser printer works by using a laser beam to create an image on a photosensitive drum. The process involves several steps:

1. Charging: The drum is uniformly charged positively.
2. Exposing: A laser beam, controlled by the data from the computer, rapidly "draws" the image onto the drum, neutralizing the charge in areas where toner should stick, creating a latent electrostatic image.
3. Developing: Negatively charged toner particles are attracted to the positively charged areas on the drum where the laser has written.
4. Transferring: The paper is given a strong positive charge and rolled past the drum, pulling the toner image from the drum onto the paper.
5. Fusing: The paper with the toner is then passed through heated rollers (fuser unit), which melt and permanently bond the toner to the paper.
6. Cleaning: The drum is cleaned of any residual toner and discharged, ready for the next print job.

7. What is a laser printer?

A laser printer is a type of non-impact printer that uses a laser beam to produce high-quality text and graphics on paper. Unlike inkjet printers that use liquid ink, laser printers use toner, a fine powder, and a process involving static electricity, a photosensitive drum, and heat to permanently fuse the toner onto the paper. They are generally known for their speed, precision, and lower cost per page for high-volume printing.

8. What is an inkjet printer?

An inkjet printer is a type of computer peripheral that creates a hard copy of digital documents or images by spraying tiny droplets of liquid ink onto paper. It's one of the most common types of printers for home and office use, known for its ability to produce high-quality color prints, including photos.