Whether you’re printing a photo or a spreadsheet for work, putting ink to paper with your office printer can seem like a pretty run-of-the-mill experience. But when you take a closer look at these devices, Alpha Laser Richmond says you may be surprised what you can learn about the technology. To share their love of this essential piece of equipment, this copier repair service of Staten Island, NY, highlights a few of the most interesting facts about printers.

5 Cool Facts About Printers

1. They Can Print Really Large…

The world’s largest digital printer was developed to print images spanning 12 x 50 meters. This device applies ink on soft materials to produce large images, such as those used for film backdrops. The technology has proven so in demand that in 2017, a second model was released to keep up with demand.  

2. …And Very Small

On the other end of the size spectrum, printers are capable of creating nearly microscopic images. In 2013, a Japanese company known as Toppan Printing® earned the Guinness World Record for the world’s smallest printed book. The tiny work features 22 pages of seasonal flows on pages that are only .03 inches in size.

3. Ink Is, Comparatively, Extremely Expensive

While the price of ink cartridges can vary greatly, their contents still remain among the most expensive liquids on the planet. One article from Consumer Reports notes that an ounce of some inks can cost more than an ounce of champagne, while more expensive inks outrank the price of some high-end perfumes per ounce.

4. Laser Toner Fusers Get Hot

Despite the fact that toner only needs a little bit of warmth to melt onto paper, fusers in laser printers can reach up to 400°F when in action. To prevent the paper from scorching, these rollers have to move incredibly fast while printing.

5. Xerox® Took a While to Catch On

Xerox changed the world when it introduced its first copier in 1963, but the idea behind the technology actually came much earlier. In 1938, inventor Chester Carlson created the process used by the machines, known as xerography—the use of electrical charges to transmit images to paper.  

Here’s another cool fact about this office equipment: if you live in the Staten Island, NY area, you can receive incredibly affordable printer, laser toner, and ink cartridge services from Alpha Laser Richmond. Serving the greater Manhattan area for 25 years, this team has a reputation for fast printer repair and efficient ink delivery. Whether you’re looking for a tech-minded specialist to provide reliable copier repair or require safe toner recycling, this company can meet your needs with ease. Learn more about their services online or call (718) 317-1263 to request assistance for your device.