dot-matrix printer

printing device

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

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A dot-matrix printer is a type of impact printer that creates characters by striking pins against an ink ribbon, transferring ink to the paper. This process forms a pattern of dots in a grid, which together create alphanumeric characters. These printers were a common type of computer printer, though they are now largely superseded by non-impact technologies like ink-jet and laser printers. The key characteristics of printers, including dot-matrix printers, are resolution (measured in dots per inch), speed, and color capabilities.12

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printer
Most impact printers are dot-matrix printers, which have a number of pins on the print head that emerge to form a character. Non-impact printers fall into three main categories: laser printers use a laser beam to attract toner to an area of the paper; ink-jet printers spray a jet…
Read More
Most impact printers are dot-matrix printers, which have a number of pins on the print head that emerge to form a character. Non-impact printers fall into three main categories: laser printers use a laser beam to attract toner to an area of the paper; ink-jet printers spray a jet…
Read More