Glossary
default
A value or setting that takes effect when the printer is turned on, reset, or initialized.
dots per inch (dpi)
The number of dots per inch is a measure of printer resolution. The higher the number of dots, the higher the resolution.
download
To transfer information from the computer to the printer.
dpi
See dots per inch.
driver
The part of a software program that converts commands from the program into commands used by the printer. Also known as the printer driver.
drum
The part of the printer mechanism where the image is formed and transferred to the paper.
initialization
The act of returning the printer to its defaults (fixed set of conditions).
interface
The connection between the printer and the computer. A parallel interface transmits data one character or code at a time, and a serial interface transmits data one bit at a time.
memory
The part of the printer’s electronic system that is used to store information. Some information is fixed and is used to control how the printer operates. Information that is sent to the printer from the computer (such as downloaded fonts) is stored in memory temporarily. See also RAM and ROM.
orientation
Refers to the direction in which characters are printed on a page. This direction is either portrait, like this page, or landscape in which the page is rotated 90°.
photoconductor unit
A component of the printer that contains a photosensitive print drum.
printer driver
See driver.
Glossary 1