CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)HardwareHard
A pilot warehouse program requires printing multi-part carbonless shipping forms in a dusty environment where receipts must survive rough handling. Which type of printer is BEST suited for this task?
- AImpact (dot-matrix) printer
- BLaser printer
- CInkjet printer
- DThermal printer
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Impact (dot-matrix) printer
Impact printers use a print head that physically strikes an ink ribbon against paper, allowing them to print through multiple carbonless copies simultaneously. They are also more tolerant of dusty, harsh industrial environments than laser or inkjet printers.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Laser printers fuse toner to a single sheet and cannot create multiple carbon copies in one pass.
- C. Inkjet printers spray liquid ink and cannot print multi-part carbonless forms.
- D. Thermal printers use heat-sensitive paper and cannot produce multi-part copies.
Impact Printers
Impact printers use a pin-based print head striking an inked ribbon against paper, enabling multi-part carbonless form printing and durability in harsh environments.
- Only printer type that can print multi-part forms in one pass
- Common in warehouses, invoicing, and industrial settings
- Print head/ribbon wear are common maintenance points
Memory trick: Impact printers punch through paper stacks like a tiny typewriter army