What is a printer cartridge

Printers are external peripheral devices that, after connecting to a computer (installing a flash drive), output text or graphic information onto a hard (paper) medium. The dyes used to apply images are stored in special cartridges.

What is a printer cartridge

Important! Most manufacturers of org. Technicians recommend that users purchase dye cartridges from the same manufacturer as the devices themselves. However, practice shows that using original ink cartridges is much more expensive than purchasing “consumables” from third-party manufacturers.

Purpose, description of functions

The printer cartridge acts as a reservoir for the ink needed to transfer images to paper. Previously, printing devices had only one “consumable”, which contained black ink. Modern models can be equipped with several cassettes containing ink of different colors.

Important! Color inkjet cartridges use only three colors. If you constantly use shades in which one color or another dominates, the consumption will be uneven. To avoid this problem, you need to choose cassettes that can be refilled during use.

In addition, cassettes can be used in multifunctional MFP devices.Since MFPs combine the functions of a printer, scanner and fax machine, they use much more ink, so cartridges need to be changed much more often.

On each cartridge packaging there is an inscription indicating its resource - the number of pages for which there is enough ink to print. But it often turns out that this number is too low.

Kinds

There is a huge selection of replacement cassettes for printers and MFPs, which are differentiated according to the printing method. There are three main types of cassettes:

1. Matrix. They were created on the same principle as typewriters. The case cannot be disassembled, designed for 1 or 4 colors. Despite the fact that matrix devices are practically not in demand, matrix cartridges are still popular. With their help, you can provide mass and inexpensive printing of text information.
2. Jet. There are two types of consumables: with and without an ink head. The second option is more profitable to maintain, as it costs much less. Inkjet models are easy to install and refuel.
3. Laser. They are distinguished by high printing speed and large resources. However, it is almost impossible to refill the cassette for a laser printer.

Important! Original cartridges are included with the printer or MFP.

Appearance what it looks like

The appearance of the ink cartridge will depend on the type of equipment for which it is intended. The design, appearance, and dimensions depend on the printing technology.

The set of consumables for dot matrix printers has an intricate design, consisting of:

• a housing that performs a protective function;
• an ink ribbon made of fabric impregnated with special ink;
• a mechanism for pulling the tape inside the cartridge itself;
• handles that help tighten the tape if it sag;
• sponge applying ink to fabric tape.

Important! The tape can be monochrome or multi-color.

Products for inkjet printer models are ink storage containers, which include the following elements:

• a cover with a hole;
• paint tanks;
• sponges for holding and absorbing dyes;
• toner application head;
• plates for connecting to a computer;
• piezoelectric plate for pushing out paint.

Laser cartridges consist of several separate mechanisms and many removable parts. Conventionally, they can be divided into the following components:

• toner:
• frame;
• image transfer node.

Important! Most parts of the laser printing mechanism can be replaced or repaired.

Using string printers requires constant operation of the device. If the equipment is left idle for a long time, the paints in it may dry out. This feature does not apply to laser and matrix devices.