Image formation system

Laser printing requires the interaction of several different technologies (such as electronics, optics, and electrophotographics) to provide a printed page. Each process functions independently and must be coordinated with the other printer processes. Image formation consists of six processes:

Step 1 Drum Cleaning

Step 2 Drum Conditioning

Step 3 Image Writing

Step 4 Image Developing

Step 5 Image Transferring

Step 6 Image Fusing

Electrostatic Latent Image Formation Block

Flow of Paper

2. Scanning Exposure

Direction of Drum

 

1. Primary Charging

3. Developing

Drum Cleaning

7. Drum Cleaning

Block

 

Paper Delivery

Fuser Block

5. Separation 4. Transfer

Registration

6. Fusing

Manual Feeding Slot

Multi-Purpose Tray

Transfer Block

Figure 5-4Image formation block diagram

Toner cartridge

As the “heart” of the Image Formation System, the toner cartridge houses the cleaning, conditioning, and developing steps of the process. The toner cartridge contains the photosensitive drum, primary charging roller, developing station, toner cavity, and cleaning station. Including these components, which wear, degrade, or are consumed in the replaceable toner cartridge, eliminates the need for a service call when replacement is required. The special photosensitive properties of the drum allow an image to be formed on the drum surface and then transferred to paper.

CAUTION The printer’s toner cartridge does not include a light-blocking shutter. Be careful to avoid exposing the drum to light, which can permanently damage the drum. Protect the cartridge whenever removing it from the printer.

EN

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