Definition
A line printer is a type of high-speed printer used primarily for computer output, capable of printing an entire line of text simultaneously. This makes it highly efficient for large-scale printing tasks. Line printers can achieve speeds of up to 1,400 lines per minute, making them suitable for environments where rapid output is essential.
Examples
- Impact Line Printers: These printers use a mechanical print head to physically strike an ink ribbon against paper, printing one line at a time. They are often used in older systems and specific industrial applications.
- Drum Printers: A drum rotates at high speed with fixed characters embossed on its surface. Each revolution of the drum allows for the entire line of text to be printed simultaneously.
- Chain Printers: These use a chain of characters moving horizontally at high speed. Hammers strike the paper against the chain to produce a line of text.
- Comb Printers: Use a comb-like structure where each tooth corresponds to a character. When the comb positions a character over a specific line, the paper advances by one line, printing all required characters at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes line printers different from laser printers?
Line printers are designed for speed, printing entire lines at once with high throughput. Laser printers, on the other hand, are designed for high-resolution and quality, using a laser beam to produce detailed text and images.
What are the typical applications of line printers?
Line printers are commonly used in environments where high-speed, high-volume document printing is required, such as data centers, corporate billing services, and industrial settings.
How do line printers impact efficiency?
Due to their high-speed operation, line printers significantly cut down on printing time compared to other types of printers, making them highly efficient for bulk printing tasks.
Are line printers still used today?
While less common than in the past, line printers are still used in certain environments that require rapid, high-volume output, particularly where the printing quality is secondary to speed and capacity.
Related Terms
- Laser Printer: A type of non-impact printer known for high-resolution output suitable for both text and images. It uses a laser beam to transfer toner to paper.
- Impact Printer: A category of printers, which includes line printers, that create an image by physically striking an inked ribbon with a print head.
- Dot Matrix Printer: A specific type of impact printer that forms characters and images through a matrix of dots created by tiny pins striking the ribbon.
- Thermal Printer: A printer that uses heat-sensitive paper and thermal technology to produce printed output, commonly used for receipts and labels.
Online Resources
Suggested Books
- “Computer Peripherals and Interfaces” by Norman S. Matloff: This book provides a detailed exploration of various computer peripherals, including line printers, and their interfaces.
- “Computer Organization and Design” by David A. Patterson and John L. Hennessy: Covers the principles of computer organization, including the use and functioning of different types of printers.
- “Computer Printers: Advances in Research and Application” by Mary L. Rowell: Focuses on the latest research and advancements in printer technology, including line printers.
Fundamentals of Line Printers: Technology Basics Quiz
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