Which ribbon does the LQ 310 dot matrix printer use?
For the LQ 310 dot matrix printer, the ribbon is not only the direct media for printing and imaging, but also a key factor in ensuring stable output and extending the device's lifespan. So, what ribbon does the LQ 310 dot matrix printer use?
This article will provide an in-depth, professional analysis of this issue, detailing ribbon models, specifications, material processing, matching principles, installation methods, maintenance precautions, and the role of the ribbon in the operation of the LQ 310 dot matrix printer.
Printing Methods and Ribbon Functions of the LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer
To determine which ribbon to use with the LQ 310 dot matrix printer, you must first understand its printing principles. The LQ 310 is a 24-pin dot matrix impact printer. Electromagnetic pins inside the print head strike the ribbon, and the ink on the ribbon is transferred to the paper under pressure, forming dot-matrix characters, numbers, or graphics.
In this process, the ribbon plays the following key roles:
1. Ink Transfer Medium
Ink on the ribbon is transferred to the paper through mechanical impact, directly determining the readability and clarity of the printed content.
2. Needle Impact Cushion
During the needle impact process, the ribbon provides a slight cushioning effect for the metal needles, reducing wear caused by direct contact between the metal and the paper.
3. Resolution and Density Support
High-quality ribbons provide uniform ink distribution, helping achieve the highest resolutions supported by the LQ 310 dot matrix printer (e.g., 360×360 dpi).
(Ribbon for the LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer)
Standard Ribbon Models for the LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer
Based on manufacturer specifications and industry standards, the standard ribbon model for the LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer is:
• Epson S015633 (also known as the LQ-310 Ribbon Cartridge)
1. Model Identification
This model is officially designed by Epson for the LQ 310 printer, ensuring precise alignment with printhead spacing, pin layout, and drive stroke.
2. Official Definition
The Epson S015633 ribbon is typically supplied as a "ribbon cartridge," integrating the ribbon and ribbon frame for easy replacement and reducing the complexity of manual winding.
3. Length and Capacity
This ribbon can be several meters long, boasts a uniform ink layer, and is officially rated to support approximately 2.5 million characters of printing (actual lifespan may vary depending on factors such as print mode, ambient humidity, and paper roughness).
LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer Ribbon Specifications
To ensure optimal printing performance for the LQ 310 dot matrix printer, the ribbon used must meet the following technical specifications:
Parameter Category | Technical Specifications | Description |
Ribbon Type | Nylon webbing | Combining wear resistance and flexibility to withstand high-frequency impacts on the print head |
| Length | Approximately 8-10 meters | Ensures long-term printing |
| Width | Approximately 13mm | Matches the LQ 310 print head's pin array coverage |
| Ink Type | Oil-based ink | High durability, resists fading |
| Color | Black (standard) | Ensures high-contrast output |
| Structure | Standard | Easy to replace and install |
Why does the LQ 310 dot matrix printer require a dedicated ribbon?
While there are numerous general-purpose dot matrix printer ribbons on the market, the LQ 310 dot matrix printer prioritizes ribbons that match its structure. The reasons are as follows:
1. Needle Array Matching
The LQ 310's 24-pin arrangement and pitch are directly related to the ribbon width and ink layer position. A mismatched ribbon can cause some needles to miss the ink layer, resulting in broken characters.
2. Tension and Ribbon Supply System Compatibility
The tension adjustment mechanism inside the ribbon carrier and the LQ 310's drive gear design must precisely align. Excessive tension increases the impact load on the needles; too little tension can easily lead to wrinkling and tape jams.
3. Ink Formula
The ink viscosity and permeability of the dedicated ribbon are optimized to ensure clear printing without excessive penetration, which could contaminate the back of the paper or increase the burden on needle cleaning.
4. Lifespan Stability
The lifespan of the official ribbon is coordinated with the printer's preset print head impact force and ribbon speed, ensuring stable output throughout the ribbon's lifespan.
Ribbon Material and Process Analysis
The ribbon used in the LQ 310 dot matrix printer is not made of ordinary fiber, but rather a high-strength nylon ribbon that has undergone industrial-standard processing. Suitable for use with oil-based inks, it exhibits the following characteristics:
1. High-Density Weaving
The ribbon's dense and uniform texture ensures uniform ink distribution and maintains a stable ink layer even after repeated impacts.
2. Ink Immersion Process
The ribbon undergoes a dedicated impregnation process at the factory to evenly penetrate the oil-based ink into the fiber, ensuring long-term, fade-resistant printing.
3. Abrasion and Tensile Resistance
Nylon fiber resists breaking under high-frequency impact, ensuring stable operation throughout the ribbon's lifespan.
4. Environmental Protection and Safety
The high-quality ribbon ink complies with environmental standards such as RoHS and emits no noticeable irritating odor or harmful substances to operators.
LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer Ribbon Installation and Replacement
Ribbon replacement is a frequent task in routine maintenance of the LQ 310 Dot Matrix printer. Proper replacement helps maintain print quality and device life.
1. When to Replace
• When the print becomes noticeably lighter, ink breaks, or characters become unclear;
• When the ribbon has exceeded its rated lifespan and print quality has deteriorated.
2. Replacement Procedure (Overview)
• Turn off the LQ 310 Dot Matrix printer and open the top cover;
• Gently remove the clips on both sides of the old ribbon cartridge;
• Check the print head for foreign matter;
• Align the new ribbon cartridge with the print head and secure it securely;
• Manually rotate the ribbon adjustment knob to ensure the ribbon is straight and has the appropriate tension;
• Close the top cover, restart the device, and test the output.
3. Precautions
• Avoid touching the ink surface of the ribbon directly with your hands to prevent contamination and ink evaporation.
• Do not continue to operate the printer after the ribbon is exhausted to prevent further wear on the needle.
• Ensure the ribbon is installed in the correct direction to avoid reverse installation, which may cause irregular ribbon movement.
Storage and Care of LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons
To extend the useful life of the ribbon, please note the following when storing and using the LQ 310 Dot Matrix Printer Ribbon:
• Storage Conditions: Avoid direct sunlight, high temperatures, and humidity. We recommend storing the ribbon at a temperature of 15-25°C and a humidity of 40-60%.
• Once opened: Use within six months of opening to prevent ink evaporation and resulting in lighter print colors.
• Spare Parts Management: When purchasing in bulk, ensure first-in, first-out (FIFO) is used to prevent ribbons from becoming ineffective due to prolonged storage.
Does COBOL accept customized orders?
Absolutely. Our company has a skilled R&D team capable of producing customized toner cartridges, ribbons, and ink solutions. We supply both standard and tailored products to meet different printing needs. From brand-specific printer consumables to private label production, our factory in Foshan, Guangdong offers low price quotes for bulk orders. Buyers can contact us for promotions, wholesale supply, and detailed customization options.
