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Operation panel

Allows you to operate some functions.

Auto Sheet Feeder ASF-50 connector

Connects the optional Auto Sheet Feeder ASF-50 to the printer.

Power connector

Connects the printer to the AC adapter.

Power lock switch

After the power lock switch is slid to the right, you can press the POWER button to switch the printer on and off. After the power lock switch is slid to the left, you cannot switch the printer on, even if you press the POWER button. This prevents the printer from being switched on accidentally while it is being transported. Before transporting the printer, always slide the power lock switch to the left. Otherwise, leave the power switch at the right position so you can operate the POWER button normally to switch the printer on and off.

Battery pack

The Canon Li-Ion Battery LB-50 provides power to the printer when the AC adapter is not connected. When the AC adapter is connected, the printer is powered from the AC adapter. When the battery pack requires recharging, the CHARGE/ERROR lamp will start flashing green. To recharge the battery pack, connect the AC adapter to the printer and to a power outlet. When the battery pack is fully charged, the CHARGE/ERROR lamp will go off.

Battery pack release

Push to the right to release the battery pack so you can remove it. Do not remove the battery pack unless you are going to store the printer for a prolonged period (three months or more).

Front cover

When closed, covers the battery pack. Folds down so you can feed paper and other media to the printer. Open the front cover only when you are feeding paper or other media into the printer.

Feed slot

Allows you to feed one sheet of paper or other media for printing. Always align the left edge of the sheet with the left side of the feed slot.

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Canon BJC-50 Operation panel, Auto Sheet Feeder ASF-50 connector, Power connector, Power lock switch, Battery pack

BJC-50 specifications

The Canon BJC-50 is a portable bubble jet printer that made waves in the early 1990s for its compact design and high-quality output. Launched by Canon in 1995, it appealed to both home and business users who required mobility without compromising on performance. This printer offered a unique blend of features that set it apart from traditional desktop printers of its time.

One of the standout features of the BJC-50 is its lightweight and compact form factor, making it an ideal choice for users on the move. Weighing in at a mere 3.5 pounds, it easily fits into a travel bag, allowing professionals to print documents wherever they are. Its small footprint means it can be used in tight spaces, a significant advantage for home offices or small workstations.

The technology behind the BJC-50 is rooted in Canon's bubble jet printing technology. This involved heating ink to create tiny bubbles, which then forced droplets of ink onto the paper to create sharp text and vibrant images. This method delivered higher resolution printing compared to many pen and dot matrix printers at the time. The BJC-50 produced prints at a resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi, resulting in clear and detailed documents.

Additionally, the Canon BJC-50 featured a flexible inkjet cartridge system. Users could choose between different cartridges optimized for text or photo printing. This adaptability allowed for a range of printing tasks, from basic black and white documents to full-color graphics. The printer also supported both standard and high-capacity cartridges, providing users with options depending on their printing volume.

Connectivity was another strong point of the BJC-50. It came equipped with a parallel port and offered optional infrared capabilities, which facilitated wireless printing from compatible devices. This feature was particularly novel in the 1990s, showcasing Canon's commitment to advancing user convenience and technology.

In terms of usability, the BJC-50 had an easy-to-use interface with straightforward control buttons. It featured a compact and accessible paper tray that could handle various media types and sizes, which made the transition between different printing tasks seamless and efficient.

All in all, the Canon BJC-50 was a pioneering portable printer that encapsulated the demands of its era, balancing size, technology, and functionality. While newer models have since taken the stage, the principles that guided the design and features of the BJC-50 continue to influence portable printing solutions today.