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[[File:HP_Laserjet_5_DN_1.jpg|HP Laserjet 5 DN 1|thumb]] '''Printer (computing)''' refers to a peripheral device that makes a persistent human-readable representation of graphics or text on paper or similar physical media. The first computer printer designed was a mechanically driven apparatus by Charles Babbage for his difference engine in the 19th century; however, his mechanical printer design was not built until 2000. The first electronic printer was the [[EP-101]], introduced by [[Epson]] in 1968.

==Types of Printers==
There are several types of printers, and they can be broadly categorized into impact and non-impact printers.

===Impact Printers===
Impact printers operate by directly contacting the paper to produce text or images. This category includes:
* [[Dot matrix printer|Dot matrix printers]], which use a print head that moves back-and-forth or in an up-and-down motion on the page and prints by impact, striking an ink-soaked cloth ribbon against the paper, much like a typewriter.
* [[Daisy wheel printers]], similar to typewriters, use a wheel to print letters. They are known for their high-quality text printing but are much slower than other types of printers.

===Non-impact Printers===
Non-impact printers do not use a striking head to print. This category includes:
* [[Inkjet printer|Inkjet printers]], which spray tiny droplets of ink onto the paper. They can produce high-quality text and graphics.
* [[Laser printer|Laser printers]], which use a laser beam to produce an image on a drum, which is then rolled in toner (powdered ink), and the toner is transferred onto the paper and fused to the paper with heat.
* [[Thermal printer|Thermal printers]], which use heat to produce an image on special heat-sensitive paper. They are commonly used in calculators and fax machines.

==Connectivity==
Modern printers can connect to a computer via various interfaces. The most common interfaces are:
* [[USB]] - Universal Serial Bus is a common interface for connecting printers to computers.
* [[Ethernet]] - Used for network printers that can be shared among multiple users on the same network.
* [[Wi-Fi]] - Allows printers to connect to a network wirelessly, offering greater flexibility in placement.
* [[Bluetooth]] - Enables direct printing from mobile devices without the need for a network.

==Printer Software==
Printers require software drivers to operate. These drivers translate data from the computer into a format that the printer can understand. Printer manufacturers typically provide drivers for various operating systems to ensure compatibility.

==3D Printing==
Apart from traditional printing on paper, [[3D printing]] has emerged as a technology that builds three-dimensional objects from digital models. 3D printers use different materials, such as plastic, metal, and resin, to create objects layer by layer.

==Environmental Impact==
Printers, especially those used in large volumes, can have a significant environmental impact. Concerns include the use of paper, energy consumption, and the disposal of consumables like toner cartridges and ink cartridges. Many manufacturers and third-party companies offer recycling programs to mitigate these effects.

==See Also==
* [[Computer hardware]]
* [[Output device]]
* [[Printed circuit board]]

[[Category:Computer peripherals]]
[[Category:Printing devices]]

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Prab: CSV import