11 best dot printers
Dot matrix printers are a type of impact printer that were commonly used in offices and homes for document printing before the advent of modern inkjet and laser printers. Here's what you need to know about dot matrix printers and their related aspects:
Dot Matrix Printing Technology:
- Dot matrix printers operate on impact printing technology.They use a printhead with a matrix of pins (or wires) that strike an inked ribbon to produce characters and graphics on paper.
Print Quality:
- Dot matrix printers are known for their relatively low print quality compared to inkjet and laser printers. They create text and images using a series of dots, resulting in a somewhat coarse or pixelated appearance.
Speed and Efficiency:
- These printers are known for their speed and efficiency, especially when it comes to printing multipart forms, invoices, or receipts. They can print multiple copies simultaneously by applying more pressure to the paper through multipart forms.
Noise Level:
- Dot matrix printers are quite noisy due to the impact of the printhead on the paper. This noise is a distinctive characteristic of these printers.
Ribbon Cartridges:
- They use ribbon cartridges to provide the ink for printing. These ribbons are replaceable and come in various colors, allowing for different printing options.
Applications:
- Dot matrix printers were commonly used in offices for tasks such as printing invoices, receipts, shipping labels, and forms that required multiple copies.
- They were also used in some industrial settings for tasks like printing barcode labels and manufacturing documents.
Durability:
- Dot matrix printers are known for their durability and longevity. They can handle high-volume printing tasks over an extended period.
Connectivity:
- Older dot matrix printers typically used parallel ports for connectivity to computers, but some newer models may also offer USB connections.
Maintenance:
- Regular maintenance is necessary to keep dot matrix printers in good working condition. This includes cleaning the printhead and replacing the ribbon cartridge as needed.
Phasing Out:
- With the advancement of inkjet and laser printing technologies, dot matrix printers have become less common in recent years. However, they are still in use in specific industries and applications where their unique capabilities are valued.
In summary, dot matrix printers are impact printers known for their durability, efficiency in printing multipart forms, and suitability for specific business applications. While they have largely been replaced by inkjet and laser printers for general office use, they continue to have a niche role in certain industries and specialized printing tasks.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best dot printers on the marketProduct description
Powerful impact printers built for busy print environments.
The Epson LQ-590II Series offers the durability and ease of use for critical daily print requirements. These reliable 24-pin impact printers boast a long life cycle, a 3-year limited warranty and speeds up to 584 cps. Their up-to-5-million-character ribbon cartridge reduces user interventions as well as cost per page. Engineered for seamless integration into virtually any system, they include Epson ESC/P2® and IBM® PPDS printer languages. Ideal for harsh environments, these workhorses race through cut-sheet, continuous or multipart forms up to 7 pages thick, and feature an intuitive control panel for easy setup and operation.
- Print Color Capability: Monochrome
- Maximum Mono Print Speed (cps): 584
- Number of Pins: 24-pin
- Parallel Port: Yes
- USB: Yes
User questions & answers
Question: | What is meant by "color capability |
Answer: | I really do not know what that could mean other than guess. My printer came with a black ink ribbon. The only color you will get. If there is any other color(s) I would guess it would be red with a black combined, just guessing. |
Question: | I need to get a usb dot matrix impact printer. i use windows 10 and quickbooks enterprise. can you recommend what printer i can get that would work |
Answer: | Can anyone confirm that this printer works with QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions 21.0 on the latest Windows 10 Pro? Thanks. |
Question: | Are the printer ribbons compatible with older models of LQ590 by Epson |
Answer: | No they are slightly different and only those for this printer can be used |
Question: | can it print continuous feed labels |
Answer: | Yes it can print continuous labels, it is completely adjustable as far as width and thickness. |
Product description
Epson, world leader of impact printers, introduces a new printer with the same technology, reliability and quality of its predecessors, but with a more compact presentation and robustness. The new LX-350 has fast and durable EPSON 9-Pin technology, prints up to 347 characters per second and is ideal for front and back office applications needing continuous paper or multi-part stationery. Now more reliable than ever, the LX-350 has a mean time between failure of 10,000 operating hours. Operating System: OS Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP / Win 7 - 8 Microsoft Windows Vista EPSON Status Monitor 3 Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP / Win 7 - 8 Microsoft Windows Vista EPSON Printer Setting Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP / Win 7 - 8 Microsoft Windows Vista
- The Epson LX-350 has fast and durable EPSON 9-Pin technology, prints up to 347 cps and is ideal for front and back office applications needing continuous paper or multi-part stationery
- Parallel, serial and USB interfaces
- Compact design fits neatly onto desks
- High reliability: MTBF of 10,000 operating hours
- Energy efficient model for less power consumption
User questions & answers
Question: | Does the printer come with all of the drivers |
Answer: | A disc is included with all the drivers. |
Question: | How this printer connects to the host computer? is it via usb, parallel cable, serial rs232 or ethernet? please i need to know before i buy |
Answer: | A cable was not provided in the box to connect the printer to host computer. Apparently, you will need to order this item separately. The setup guide indicates you can use any of the three following types of cables: a parallel adapter (IEEE1284); a serial Adapter cable (EIA-232D) or a USB cable. The USB cable would need to be an A Male to B Male cable. All three outlets are on the printer, so you can choose (and obtain separately) the cord you will need to connect it to your computer. The power cable is provided. |
Question: | Will it work with Windows |
Answer: | No, sorry. Windows 8 is most recent OS. |
Question: | The printer sometimes stopped in the middle of a job. I wold just turn it off and reprint. Now it won't print at all |
Answer: | Did you clear the job que first? |
Product description
OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo Mono Dot Matrix Printer (9 Pin) (435 cpm) (64 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (120V) (Max Duty Cycle 20 000 Pages) (USB) (Parallel).
From the Manufacturer
The Microline 320/321 Turbo builds on the OKI Tank-Tough heritage. This 9-pin printer is now engineered even tougher for dedicated printing in the most demanding point-of-sale, automation and utility applications. It can easily run twice as long as most printers in its class! And it's economical enough to put wherever you need data on the spot.
The ML320/321 Turbo puts the "work" in workstations for financial departments, wholesale or retail sales counters, even for harsh or warehouse or manufacturing environments. Its relentless performance comes from the rugged printhead designthe lighter, stronger, more efficient motor; the long-lasting rack-and-pinion drive system; a protective, impact-resistant chassis; and a high performance that goes the distance.
The printer can accommodate multi-part forms and stock that are up to twice as thick as those that fit our nearest competitor. The printhead delivers a stronger punchright to the last page of a six-part form! A patented optical sensor accurately positions the printhead for the precise output, and the auto-tear feature accurately positions your continuous forms for a clean tear right at the perforationeliminating wasted forms.
The ML320/321 Turbo can meet your needs today and in the future. It's exactly the same size as the legendary ML320/321 and it's compatible with virtually all custom and off-the-shelf software, making it the perfect replacement. This machine has all the Tank-Tough reliability and high performance you need.
What's in the Box
ML 320 Turbo Printer, power cable, CD-ROM, user guide, warranty information; printer cable not included
- OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo Mono Dot Matrix Printer (9 Pin) (435 cpm) (64 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (120V) (Max Duty Cycle 20 000 Pages) (USB) (Parallel)
- OKI MICROLINE 320 Turbo Mono Dot Matrix Printer (9 Pin) (435 cpm) (64 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (120V) (Max Duty Cycle 20 000 Pages) (USB) (Parallel)
- Matrix
User questions & answers
Question: | Can you use track paper with this printer |
Answer: | Yes, you can use narrow track paper with the model. Fan fold 8.5x11 inch pages with the tracks added. You can also load various types of labels within the width specs. |
Question: | Does this printer have a power cord and UBS plug |
Answer: | USB had not been invented when this printer was made. There is a single PARALLEL 25-pin connector on the printer, suitable for connecting it to vintage PCs that have a parallel printer output connector. Look at the product pictures. There is only a single parallel printer connector. You may be able to find an adaptor, but you may find it VERY hard to obtain drivers, especially for W10. |
Question: | Is there a Windows 10 driver for this printer |
Answer: | All I have is a not new printer that works fine with W7 in my office. It is not new. W10 is brand new.I am not a dealer, nor a W expert. In the past one had to look in W to see if they have the driver, not the other way around. Sorry, ????? |
Question: | Why do people still use these |
Answer: | Because so many companies/governments have failed to change with the times and develop innovative solutions. Just read through the list of reasons included here. Multiple copies? Running records? It doesn't sound like most of these companies/governments need printers, let alone dot matrix printers. Dot matrix ink is cheap and lasts forever? It's cheaper not to print at all. With the ability to store online, scan/image paper and store online, sign online, and email, printers are obsolete for the vast majority of processes. In my line of work, many people from many orgs use the same electronic copy stored in the same location. If we can do it, anyone can (unless your information is classified). |
Product description
OKI MICROLINE 420 Dot Matrix Printer (9-pin) (570 cps) (128 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (Max Duty Cycle 24 000 Pages) (Parallel) (USB) (Energy Star).
- OKI MICROLINE 420 Dot Matrix Printer (9-pin) (570 cps) (128 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (Max Duty Cycle 24 000 Pages) (Parallel) (USB) (Energy Star)
- OKI MICROLINE 420 Dot Matrix Printer (9-pin) (570 cps) (128 KB) (240 x 216 dpi) (Max Duty Cycle 24 000 Pages) (Parallel) (USB) (Energy Star)
- Matrix
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this printer quieter than older models |
Answer: | YES, BUT NOT BY MUCH. IT DOES A BETTER JOB. I HAVE BEEN USING THIS TYPE PRINTER, OKI, FOR OVER 18 YEARS AND WILL NOT CHANGE. |
Question: | How wide a form can it carry |
Answer: | Be sure to measure the pin feed tracks on the continuous forms also for the total width. Continuous paper: Width 3.0-10.0“ (76.2-254.0mm) x Length 3.0-14.0“ (76.2-355.6mm) Single part paper: Width 3.9-8.5“ (99.1-216.0mm) x Length 3.9-14.02“ (99.1-356.0mm) Multi part paper: Width 3.0-10.0“ (76.2-254.0mm) x Length 3.0-14.0“ (76.2-355.6mm) |
Question: | Can this printer print a label with both horizontal AND vertical text |
Answer: | Yes, the printer can do this, but it isn't the printer that makes the decision, it is the label program you use that has that ability or not ie: Avery Labels, or the word processor program you use ie: MSWord 2003 or 2007... |
Question: | is this printer wireless |
Answer: | The Okidata ML 420 does not come with wireless printing. |
Product features
ML420 Dot Matrix Parallel/USB
ML420 9 pin Dot Matrix printer will handle the most demanding print environments: point-of-sale, automation and utility applications such as wholesale or retail sales counters, financial departments, and manufacturing or warehouse sites.
ML420 printer supports the gamut of paper types and envelopes at lightning speed: 9-pin ML420 model reaches 570 cps in SuperSpeed Draft mode.
The rugged printhead with an average life expectancy of 400 million-character, is made up of powerful samarium magnets and stored-energy pins that deliver precise, sharp characters all the way through to the last page of a 6-part form 3.
The patented OKI closed-loop feedback system assures character placement accuracy. And a zero-tear feature accurately positions continuous forms for a clean tear at the perforation to eliminate wasted stock.
Unequaled performance technology
ML420 printer sport features that give them a strong edge over their predecessors as well as the competition:
The internal cooling fan provides continuous airflow for the printhead—maximizing throughput productivity for long, unattended print jobs.
Additional feed rollers provide precise forms handling and printed-character placement accuracy.
The 3-piece top cover provides easy access and unsurpassed break resistance.
Highlights
Rated at 20,000 hours MTBF.
3-year standard warranty.
Print speeds up to 570 cps.
Integrated USB and IEEE Parallel connectivity standard.
Available with Oki LAN 10/100 Base T Ethernet Internal 6 or External Print Server.
Handles up to 6-part form.
Expandable head gap – accommodates multi-part forms and cut-sheet stock, including labels and stiff index stock.
128 KB receive buffer/ memory.
4 million-character ribbon life.
400-million character printhead life.
Small footprint – ideal for retail countertops.
Product description
When your project calls for a high volume of labeling, you’ll need the right amount of label to accommodate. The Avery Dot Matrix Printer Address Labels are designed to create thousands of professional-looking rectangle labels without reloading or reprinting. Specially designed for pin feed and dot matrix printers, the continuous-form sheets include 12 white mailing labels per perforated sheet. Having a label without a strong stick can ruin any labeling project. Designed to permanently stick to and stay, the printable labels includes a strong adhesive that can onto a variety of surfaces without lifting or curling. Easily create your own customizable labels with the free design, templates, and mail merge tools at avery.com/templates. Use the multipurpose labels to produce address labels, labels for storage bins, and organization labels. The rectangle white labels are sized at 15/16" x 3 1/2", and the pack includes 5,000 labels.
- Ideal for large volume uses, print thousands of professional-looking rectangle labels without reloading or reprinting
- Specifically designed for pin feed and dot matrix printers, the continuous-form label sheets contain 12 white address labels per perforated sheet
- The multipurpose labels are perfect for creating mailing labels, storage labels, and organization labels
- The printable labels are designed to permanently stick and stay without lifting or curling
User questions & answers
Question: | will this work on lx-350 dot matrix printer |
Answer: | Yes, works on 9 pin dot matrix printers. |
Question: | Which priters i should use |
Answer: | You must use a tractor feed or pin feed printer. Most likely it will be a dot matrix style as well. These will not work with a laser or ink jet printer. |
Question: | I used to run labels unlimited for these labels but that doesn't run on windows 10. is there any freeware software that will print these on |
Answer: | Windows 7 Professional and Interlink newspaper circulation software. |
Question: | are these perforated after every label |
Answer: | Yes, they are perforated after every label, but you may have to fold at the perforation now and then to get an easy tear. Avery #4013, 3-1/2 x 15/16 Vic |
Product features
Addressing Made Easy
Avery Address Labels are the perfect solution when you want to create professional labels quickly and easily. They're great for all your mailing projects, or to use for organizing and identification. Simply customize your labels with the free templates and designs from Avery Design & Print Online. The drag-and-drop mail merge tool lets you quickly and easily import addresses and data for high-volume projects. Jam-free and smudge-free guaranteed, Avery Address Labels are perfect for all your mailing and shipping needs.
Clear
Get a custom printed-on look on all your mail. The labels virtually disappear on colored and textured surfaces, making them great for special events and occasions.
Pearlized
Add a touch of elegance to envelopes, gifts and more. The size and finish are perfect for weddings, holiday cards, thank-you notes or save-the-date announcements.
WeatherProof
Stand up to harsh weather and conditions with these durable polyester labels.They resist moisture, scuffing and tearing and hold on in tough environments.
Special Shapes
Get creative with your addressing using labels of different sizes and shapes. Ideal for weddings, parties and other special events.
Easy Peel
Apply labels in a snap with the patented Easy Peel feature. Just bend the label sheet to expose the Pop-up Edge, peel off your label and fold the sheet back to flat.
Free Templates
Easily customize your labels using the free templates and designs at Avery Design & Print Online. Personalize with your logo, graphics and other information.
Easy-to-Use Mail Merge
Import names, addresses and other data in just a few quick steps. Ideal for mass mailing, invitations, branded mailings, holiday address labels and more.
Product description
Epson, tm-u220b, dot matrix receipt printer, Ethernet (e04), Epson dark gray, auto cutter, power supply included replaces c31c514667.
User questions & answers
Question: | I bought one of these but i realized we have idn not ethernet. how can i change this to be idn |
Answer: | You can replace the interface module. |
Question: | what is the paper width |
Answer: | 3" |
Question: | Why does it come with already printed on receipts |
Answer: | If you are buying brand new there should be no receipts in it. Maybe you purcahsed a Renewed item which could have test prints in it? |
Question: | Is it a USB |
Answer: | This particular item is not USB. This model does come in 14 SKU's that support USB. The following are stock items: C31C514A8531; C31C514A8711; C31C515A8761 |
Product features
Phone Stands
Phone stands are very handy if you want to watch a video without holding your phone. There are two designs in this project. The first is a pocket-sized phone stand that doubles as a key ring. The second is based on a shark's jaws and is big enough to hold a tablet computer.
Turtle Key Ring and Phone Stand
This phone stand is based on a turtle shape but you can adapt it into a dragon or a ladybug. You'll need to measure the thickness of your phone (including any case) to get the size of the slot right. Take care to get all dimensions correct so you can make a sturdy stand that won't fall over.
Now Try This
You can adapt this model to make different kinds of animals. Try using spheres to make a ladybug for instance. You can even turn your turtle into a dragon by adding spikes, but don't make them too sharp!
Product description
Blank white label dots have a variety of uses. Teachers and schools use them in the classroom. Great for organizing books by reading levels or organizing CD's by genre like rock, jazz and classical. Labels are great for calling attention to documents, inventory, sale items, calendars, yard sales and more! You can even use them to label food in the freezer!
Easy to use on any inkjet or laser printer. Label sheets are standard 8.5" x 11" size for very simple printing. More than 25 free templates are available at the Garage Sale Pup website (see the back of the header on the labels). Templates work for both PC or MAC. Use any of the premade templates or the blank version to easily create your own wording or designs. Add color and the uses for these labels are endless. They can also be written on with pencil, pen or marker. Labels stick to all surfaces, even clothing.
Perfect for single or multi-family garage sales. Each label is ¾" diameter and self-adhesive type. Easily Removable. Labels are 100% made in the U.S.A.
- Blank white labels with a variety of uses. Easily write on them with pen, pencil, marker or even crayon!
- 4,200 blank white dots. 0.75 inch round stickers. Stick to all surfaces, even clothing! Easily removable.
- A must-have stationery item for every office. Call attention to documents, inventory, sale items, calendars and more!
- Use in the classroom, school or organize DVD's or books. Perfect for yard sales to create your own pricing etc
- Printer friendly! Standard 8.5 x 11 inch label sheet fits any laser or inkjet printer. Free printer templates at Garage Sale Pup Website (see back of header).
User questions & answers
Question: | If the circle gets wet will the color start to bleed or come off? We’re interested in using them for hospital equipment |
Answer: | These labels are paper based with a permanent adhesive. The color will not bleed and the adhesive will not come off when wet. The labels are not waterproof, however, if not touched when wet and allowed to dry, the label will not come off. |
Question: | Do these print to the edge |
Answer: | These are really hard to print on. The alignment is off. Not sure if they will print to edge. |
Question: | Are the labels easily removable |
Answer: | It removes easily as long as you don't give it much time for the adhesive to adhere to the package. When removing, it either leaves an adhesive residue or the label rips. |
Question: | Does anyone have the link to a template with round circles |
Answer: | The templates are located at the Garage Sale Pup website. I included a link below:http://www.garagesalepup.com/templates/index.htmToddGarage Sale Pup |
Product features
Four Alexa Easter Eggs from your Favorite Films
Movies are a great source for Alexa Easter eggs. There are dozens, perhaps even hundreds, so consider these four to be a mere appetizer:
- 'Alexa, release the Kracken!' - Clash of the Titans
- 'Alexa, define supercalifragilisticexpialidocious'. - Mary Poppins
- 'Alexa, what is the Jedi code?' - Star Wars
- 'Alexa, what is my mission?'- Mission: Impossible
Four Alexa Easter Eggs from Terrific TV Shows
Although Alexa doesn't have a ton of TV Easter eggs, they are no less iconic. Here are a few favorites to whet your whistle:
- 'Alexa, who shot JR?' - Dallas
- 'Alexa, Winter is coming'. - Game of Thrones
- 'Alexa, more cowbell!' - Saturday Night Live
- 'Alexa, what is the Prime Directive?' - Star Trek
Four Alexa Easter Eggs from Top Tunes
Music is one of Alexa's strong suits, so you won't be surprised to hear that it has dozens of music-related Easter eggs waiting to be discovered. Here are some samples for music lovers of all ages:
- 'Alexa, how many roads must a man walk down? - 'Blowin' in the Wind' by Bob Dylan
- 'Alexa, I shot a man in Reno'. - 'Folsom Prison Blues' by Johnny Cash
- 'Alexa, hello it's me'. - 'Hello' by Adele
- 'Alexa, what does the fox say?' - 'The Fox' by Ylvis
Four Alexa Easter Eggs That Are Just Plain Odd
The tasks you ask Alexa to do are mostly utilitarian: 'Set an alarm', 'Play some music', 'Be quiet'. But all work and no play makes Alexa dull virtual personal assistant. To give Alexa something fun to do, try one of these requests:
- 'Alexa, flip a coin'.
- 'Alexa, make me a sandwich'.
- 'Alexa, pretend to be a supervillain'.
- 'Alexa, talk like a pirate'.
Product description
Matrix nylon ribbon is designed for use with Oki Microline 120, 172, 180, 180+, 182, 182+, 184T, 186, 192, 192+, 193, 193+, 320, 321, 320T, 321T and Oki Data 120. Ribbon yields approximately 3 million characters.
In a world of dazzling inkjets and high-tech laser printers, it's nice to remember that sometimes a sturdy old dot-matrix is the best machine for the job. This replacement self-inking ribbon cartridge is compatible with Okidata printer models 320 and 321 as well as the Microline 100 series. With an average life span of three million characters, this name-brand consumable provides rich black text to multi-page forms, labels, receipts, and shipping documents. Size 5/6 inches by 2 yards.
- Compatible with Oki Microline 120
- Works in 172, 180, 182, 184T, 320
- Also for use in Oki Data 120 and more
- Quality construction
- Easy to install
- Replacement ribbon for Okidata 320/321 dot-matrix printers
- Also compatible with Microline 100 series
User questions & answers
Question: | We print up to 20,000 pinfed labels a month or more. Would this be a good printer for that quantity |
Answer: | I print about 1000 forms a month ,but I would look for something more heavy duty for your needs ? |
Question: | How many are included in this package |
Answer: | There is one per package |
Question: | I'm concerned these aren't genuine Okidata ribbons, as recent comments have implied. Are these OEM |
Answer: | I am selling 9 of these (Klassic Computers) and all are brand new genuine Okidata ribbons. |
Product description
Wide-format impact printers built for demanding print environments.The Epson LQ-2090II Impact Printer offers the durability and productivity needed for critical daily print requirements. These reliable 24-pin, wide-format impact printers boast a long life cycle, a 3-year limited warranty and speeds up to 584 cps. Their up-to-8-million-character ribbon cartridge reduces user interventions as well as cost per page. Engineered for seamless integration into virtually any system, they include Epson ESC/P2® and IBM® PPDS printer languages. Ideal for harsh environments, these workhorses race through cut-sheet, continuous or multipart forms up to 7 pages thick, and feature an intuitive control panel for easy setup and operation. Manufacturer: Epson Corporation. Manufacturer Part Number: C11CF40201. Brand Name: Epson. Product Series: LQ. Product Model: LQ-2090II. Product Name: LQ-2090II Impact Printer. Product Type: Dot Matrix Printer. [Technical Information] Print Color Capability: Monochrome. Maximum Mono Print Speed (cps): 550. Number of Pins: 24-pin. [Interfaces/Ports] Parallel Port: Yes. USB: Yes. [Media Types & Handling] Media Type: Continuous Paper. Label. Cut Sheet. Media Size: Envelope No. 6. Envelope No. 10. 3.90" x 16.50". 4" x 22". [Physical Characteristics] Height: 6.9". Width: 24.1". Depth: 12.6". Weight (Approximate): 20.70 lb. [Miscellaneous] Package Contents: LQ-2090II Impact Printer Printer Driver Disk Quick Installation Guide Rear Sheet Guide Power Cable Push Tractor Unit Ribbon Catridge - Black Warranty Certificate . Energy Star: Yes. [Warranty] Limited Warranty: 3 Year.
- Print Color Capability: Monochrome
- Maximum Mono Print Speed (cps): 550
- Number of Pins: 24-pin
- Parallel Port: Yes
- USB: Yes
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