Definition

Noun: A type of printer that forms characters or images on paper by physically striking an inked ribbon against the paper's surface. This mechanical impact is the defining characteristic of the technology.

Usage

The term "impact printer" is used to categorize a class of printing devices based on their mechanical operation. It is often contrasted with non-impact printers like inkjet or laser printers. It is a technical term commonly found in discussions of computer history, legacy office equipment, or specific industrial applications (like multi-part forms).

Examples

• The old office still used a noisy impact printer for printing invoices on carbon-copy paper.
• Dot-matrix and daisy-wheel printers are common types of impact printers.
• Because it uses a mechanical strike, an impact printer can create multiple copies simultaneously using carbonless paper.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (functioning like an adjective) to specify a feature or type, e.g., "impact printer technology" or "impact printer head."
• In a historical context, one might say, "The age of the impact printer gave way to quieter, faster laser printing."

Variants and Related Words

• Non-impact printer (n): A printer (such as a laser or inkjet printer) that creates images without physical contact between a printing mechanism and the paper.
• Dot-matrix printer (n): A common type of impact printer that forms characters from a pattern of dots.
• Daisy-wheel printer (n): A type of impact printer that uses a wheel with pre-formed characters, producing typewriter-like quality.

Synonyms

• Strike printer (less common technical synonym)
• Mechanical printer (broader term that includes impact printers)

Antonyms

• Non-impact printer
• Laser printer
• Inkjet printer

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Impact printing (n): The process or technology of printing by mechanical impact.

Noun

1. a printer that prints by mechanical impacts