A laser printer is a type of printer that uses a precise laser beam to produce high-quality text and graphics on paper.
At its core, a laser printer utilizes an electrostatic process to create an image. This process involves a photoreceptor, which can be a photosensitive drum or belt that rotates within the printer. Initially, this photoreceptor is electrostatically charged.
How the Image is Formed:
- A laser diode generates a beam of light.
- This beam is directed at a moving mirror.
- The mirror aims the laser beam onto the photoreceptor.
- Crucially, wherever the laser beam hits the photoreceptor, it reverses the charge. This creates an invisible electrostatic image on the drum or belt, corresponding to the data being printed.
Key Characteristics:
- Precision: The laser allows for very detailed and sharp images.
- Speed: Generally faster for text documents than inkjet printers, especially for high volumes.
- Toner-based: Uses dry powder toner instead of liquid ink cartridges.
This charged image area on the photoreceptor then attracts toner particles, which are later transferred to the paper and fused on using heat and pressure, resulting in the final printed output.
