3.8e-f - CompTIA A+ Core 1: Thermal Printers

Thermal printer

Printer type that uses special white paper to print text; heated portions turn black without using ink.

Advantages of thermal printers

VERY quiet (almost silent) operation.

Disadvantages of thermal printers

Sensitive to light, heat, and clear tape; not suitable for long-term storage.

Feed assembly

A long cylinder that uses friction to pull paper through the thermal printer.

Heating element

Applies heat to paper and prints text; operates without moving print heads.

Thermochromic/thermal paper

Type of thermal paper that changes color when heated due to chemical treatments.

Thermal paper replacement process

Open the printer, remove the old spool, and insert a new one.

Heating Element Maintenance

Cleaning the heating element with isopropyl alcohol or a cleaning pen as per manufacturer recommendations.

Removing Paper Debris

To clean the printer, take it outside, use compressed air to remove debris, and wipe it down with a damp cloth.