A study of two high-speed processes for the permanent retention of transient images on non-sensitized paper

A study is made of the features required of a printer capable of producing a visible record of transient data. Particular attention is paid to the output requirements of digital electronic computers. A literature survey of high speed printers, both mechanical and non-mechanical, is given. Two feasibility studies are described, the first of a xerographic printer and the second of a laser printer. A description is given of experimental work in which optical information was printed xerographically at speeds in excess of 5,000 lines per minute. The reasons for discontinuing this line of research are stated. A proposed laser printer is then described together with the experimental work performed to determine the feasibility of the principal process involved. This process, the fusing of powdered ink onto paper, is also considered theoretically in terms of heat transfer. An evaluation is made of the acceptability of the images produced. The areas where further research is required to complete the study to the stage of operational printing are indicated.