printer for microprocessors - a black-and-white display

3-28 — elektor march 1980 printer for microprocessors printer The matrix printer shown in the photo is the Matsushita EUY-10E-10T. This is a so-called electro-sensitive printer, that prints the characters (letters, numerals and symbols) on a special type of paper. This paper is coated with a very thin (0.1 micron) layer of aluminium; im- mediately below this is an almost black surface. If the aluminium is scratched off, this dark layer becomes visible; it is possible to "write" on it in this way, using a sharp point. The matrix printer does its job in a more elegant way. A miniature motor moves a "print head" across the paper, as each line is printed. The same motor also takes care of the paper transport for "line feed". The print head contains a vertical row of seven little "pins"; these can be connected (via electronic switches) to supply common. The pins are in contact with the aluminium coating on the paper. This electrically conducting layer is connected to a positive volta...