WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PRINT HEAD AND AN INK CARTRIDGE?


What are the print heads?

 A printhead is the part of a printer that assembles and maintains the characters to print. It is also the component of an ink jet printer that systematically sprays ink on paper by creating images and text. It is the counterpart of the photoconductive unit or drum unit of the laser printer.
 

What are ink cartridges?

 An ink cartridge is a replaceable component of an inkjet printer that is used to store and distribute the print consumable. The ink is supplied as the printing consumable is deposited in the cartridge. Then, using a print head, it is transferred to the media, which in most cases is a paper. Each ink cartridge can contain one or more ink tank partitions. Some OEMs add electronic contacts and a chip to communicate with the printer. Color inkjet printers like the Canon SmartBase MP-370 have different ink cartridges for different ink colors. Ink cartridges can be refilled after consuming the total ink charge.
 

What are the significant differences between printheads and ink cartridges?

The first significant difference is the function. The ink cartridges serve as storage while the printheads receive the image from the printer and then receive enough ink to create and transfer that image to the paper. Both parties have different roles in the inkjet printing process. They are not meant to replace each other.

The second significant difference is the functional life of the parts. The print head does not need to be replaced each time the ink cartridges are replaced. Change the print head only when print quality deteriorates and head cleaning does not solve the problem. Printheads can last up to 2 or 3 replacements or refills of ink cartridges. However, this estimate may vary depending on the use and maintenance of the printer.

The third significant difference is the price. Printheads are much cheaper than ink cartridges. Ink cartridges are generally more expensive since they come with a standard toner charge. Some printers have a separate print head and ink cartridge such as the Canon SmartBase MP-370. These types of printers are much more profitable. Consumers will not have to pay for the cartridge and print head each time the ink cartridges are replaced.

 

Category: Ink Cartridge
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