Definition

Noun: A type of computer printer that uses a laser beam to produce an electrostatic image on a photosensitive drum. Toner (a fine powder) is then attracted to this electrostatic image, transferred, and fused onto paper to create the final printout. It is known for high-speed, high-quality text and graphics output.

Usage

A "laser printer" is used to describe the specific printing device itself. It is typically contrasted with other printer technologies like inkjet or dot-matrix printers. - The office upgraded all its old inkjet printers to new laser printers for better speed and lower cost per page. - For printing sharp black-and-white documents, a monochrome laser printer is often the most economical choice.

Advanced Usage

• As a compound modifier: The term can function adjectivally before another noun to specify the type.
  • We need to order more laser printer toner cartridges.
  • The laser printer market has become very competitive.

Variants and Related Words

• Laser printing (n): The process or technology used by a laser printer.
  • Laser printing is generally faster than inkjet for high-volume jobs.
• LED printer (n): A similar technology that uses an LED array instead of a laser to create the image. Often grouped conceptually with laser printers.

Synonyms

• Page printer: A broader technical term for printers, including laser printers, that process and print a complete page at a time.
• Electrostatic printer: The technical category of printers that use electrostatic principles, which includes laser printers.

Related Phrases/Concepts

• Toner: The powdered ink used in laser printers.
• Drum unit / Imaging drum: The photosensitive cylinder inside a laser printer that receives the laser image.
• Duplex printing: The ability to print on both sides of the paper, a common feature on many laser printers.

Noun

1. electrostatic printer that focuses a laser beam to form images that are transferred to paper electrostatically