Glossary

A mechanical device for printing a computer's output on paper. There are three major types of printer:

• Dot matrix - creates individual letters, made up of a series of tiny ink dots, by punching a ribbon with the ends of tiny wires. (This type of printer is most often used in industrial settings, such as direct mail for labelling.)

• Ink jet - sprays tiny droplets of ink particles onto paper.

• Laser - uses a beam of light to reproduce the image of each page using a magnetic charge that attracts dry toner that is transferred to paper and sealed with heat.