Dot Matrix printer

A type of printer technology.

A dot matrix printer is an impact technology where the paper is struck by a pattern of ink-laden pins that together form a character.

The 'matrix' is a number of pins arranged in a small rectangle called the 'print head'.

The printer controls which pins need to be used to form each character.

Not so popular these days as quieter non-impact technologies such as ink-jet and laser have largely replaced it.

But it is still useful for confidential documents such as sealed pay advice, where the print head impacts the outside of a sealed envelope that has an ink layer on its inside. This ink layer then forms characters within the envelope as the printer impacts on it. In this way, no one can see the details being printed.

It is also used to produce multi-copy forms in places such as garages and other businesses where the customer needs a copy of the transaction.

2020-10