Inkjet printers use ink cartridges that are filled with black or colored ink. The printer sprays tiny drops of ink onto the paper or other medium, which is being used. These droplets are positioned, sized, and colored precisely in order to create the desired effect.
The printer cartridges are the replaceable or disposable part of the printer. In some cases, the print head is part of the printer ink cartridge, and it is therefore replaced when the cartridge is changed. In other inkjet printers, the printer head is part of the printer itself, and it is not replaced with the ink cartridge. All types of printer cartridges contain the ink that is used for printing. Printer ink cartridges need to be replaced as the ink is used up, in order to keep using the printer.
Most inkjet printers can print in either black and white or color. Some inkjet printers require two separate cartridges, one containing the black ink and the other containing color inks. Other inkjet printers use a single cartridge which contains all of the different inks, while some printers use three separate ink cartridges for each of the primary colors (red, yellow and blue). If you mainly use black ink, then it can be a good idea to choose an inkjet printer that uses separate cartridges since you will then be able to replace the black ink without having to replace the unused color ink at the same time.
It is sometimes possible to refill ink cartridges with more ink in order to continue using the same cartridge. Refilling printer ink cartridges can significantly reduce the costs of printing, but it can be messy and difficult if you attempt to refill your own cartridges. Some specialist stores will refill ink cartridges, for a price. Printer ink cartridges can also be recycled once they have been used, which can help to reduce the environmental impact.
The ink that is used in printer ink cartridges can sometimes become smudged, particularly when printing on glossy or photo paper, or a similar medium, which is slow to absorb the ink. Another potential problem is that this type of ink is not usually waterproof. This means that it will run easily if it is exposed to water after a document has been printed. Printer ink also tends to fade over time.
The ink cartridges that are used by different makes and models of printers can be very different. They may be different shapes and sizes, and they can also be composed of different parts. It is important to use the right type of cartridge for the printer. It is possible to obtain ink cartridges that are produced by the manufacturer, or to buy compatible cartridges from third party manufacturers.
Laser printers also have a disposable cartridge, but this is a toner cartridge and not a print cartridge. Toner cartridges usually last for longer than inkjet cartridges. The printed material created by laser printers is also less likely to fade, smudge or run if it becomes wet.
If you are interested in learning more about computer hardware, including the different types of printers that are available, then you should spend some time exploring the PCx3.com website, where you will also find some useful advice on the purchase of printer ink cartridges.
