We explain how laser technology works and which parameters of printers and multifunction devices you should pay attention to.
How do laser printers work?
The three most popular types of printers available in stores are dot-matrix, inkjet and laser models. The latter technology has gained particular popularity in recent years.
Laser printers work similarly to photocopiers. Inside them is a photosensitive drum that undergoes an electrification process and is then exposed using a laser or LED diodes. The exposed areas lose their electrical charge and do not attract toner particles. As a result, the pattern transferred onto the paper is an exact reproduction of the graphic displayed on the computer screen.
The print must also be thermally fixed and the toner pressed into the sheet – these tasks are handled by the fuser, also known as the heating unit. The paper passes over a hot roller (and sometimes several rollers), where it is exposed to infrared radiation. This is why a sheet removed from a laser printer is warm.
Advantages of laser printers
Printers using laser technology are valued above all for the high quality of text printing. Letters have sharp, clear edges, so they reproduce the computer design perfectly. For transferring graphics and photos onto paper, we recommend inkjet models instead.
Another advantage of laser printers is their low running cost – so if you plan to print a large number of documents, this will be a sensible choice. You certainly will not pay a fortune for replacement toner cartridges. Costs naturally increase when printing in color – the price must be multiplied by the number of cartridges required (including the black one, there will be four).
If you print only occasionally, you will be pleased to know that laser printer toner does not dry out the way it can in equipment using inkjet technology.
Important printer parameters
When looking for the perfect printer, you will certainly browse websites such as https://www.neonet.pl/drukarki-i-urzadzenia-biurowe/drukarki-laserowe.html. Before buying, be sure to pay attention to the parameters and functions. Check the print resolution, speed, yield, housing dimensions and supported paper formats. You may also care about large tray capacity – some feeders can hold an entire ream.
Think about how you want to connect the printer to your computer – will a USB cable be enough, or will you use a wireless connection? If you prefer the latter option, be sure to choose a Wi-Fi printer. Many models offer printing directly from a smartphone, which greatly simplifies the entire process.
Multifunction device – ideal for a home office
Do you want your equipment to have an even wider range of uses? In that case, choose a laser printer with a scanner. It allows you to easily archive documents by saving them to your computer’s memory. If you run your own business, you can send clients scans of invoices, contracts and other necessary documents.
A laser multifunction device may also include copying and a built-in fax, turning it into a true command center in your home office.