Computer Ribbons

Computer Ribbons

Computer ribbons, also known as printer ribbons, are a type of consumable material used in dot matrix printers. These ribbons are made of a thin plastic film that is coated with ink on one side. The ink is typically made of a mixture of wax and pigment, which is melted onto the paper by the printer's heating element. The ribbon is wound around two spools, with the inked side facing the paper. As the printer head moves across the page, tiny pins strike the ribbon against the paper, transferring the ink and creating the printed characters. The ribbon advances automatically after each line is printed, ensuring that fresh ink is always available for the next line. Computer ribbons were commonly used in the 1980s and 1990s for printing documents such as invoices, shipping labels, and receipts. While they have largely been replaced by inkjet and laser printers, they are still used in some specialized applications where durability and longevity are important, such as in industrial settings or for printing on continuous forms.

dot matrix printers, ink, spools, pins, durability

— Thomas Jackson

CITATION : "Thomas Jackson. 'Computer Ribbons.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/computer-ribbons?E=375203 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"