Inkjet printing

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Canon PIXMA TS207 Printer picture

Inkjet printing is a type of computer printing that recreates a digital image by propelling droplets of ink onto paper and plastic substrates. Inkjet printers are the most commonly used type of printer, and range from small inexpensive consumer models to expensive professional machines.

The concept of inkjet printing originated in the 20th century, and the technology was first developed in the early 1950s. Early devices were not intended for printing on paper, but for recording electrical signals, such as in a seismograph. The actual inkjet printing mechanism was invented in the late 1970s. There are two main technologies in use in contemporary inkjet printers: continuous (CIJ) and Drop-on-Demand (DOD). CIJ technology propels continuous streams of ink droplets that are directed onto the paper by electromagnetic fields. DOD inkjet printers, on the other hand, propel ink droplets on an as-needed basis by heating or vibrating the ink chamber. This category includes thermal inkjet printers and piezoelectric inkjet printers.

The primary advantage of inkjet printers is their ability to produce high-quality color prints with intricate details. Compared to other types of printers, such as laser printers, inkjet printers generally produce finer details in photos and can print on a wider variety of substrates. However, inkjet printers often have higher costs of operation due to the price of the ink cartridges, and the printed materials can be prone to smudging or fading over time if not properly treated.

Inkjet printers are used in a variety of applications, ranging from home and office printing to industrial applications. In the home and office environment, inkjet printers are used for printing documents, photos, and graphics. In industrial settings, inkjet technology is used for printing on a variety of materials, including textiles, ceramics, and even food.

Inkjet printing technology continues to evolve, with manufacturers developing new ways to improve print quality, speed, and efficiency. Innovations such as UV-curable inks and advanced paper handling systems are expanding the capabilities and applications of inkjet printers.