The internet archive of printing knowledge.
The internet archive of printing technology.
PrinterArchive.net is an educational reference on printing, fax, scanning, mobile printing, document workflows, and the history of printing technology.
Browse the archive
9 ways into printing technology
- 01Printing HistoryHow printing, fax, and document technology developed over time.8 entries
- 02Technology GuidesClear explanations of how printing and scanning technologies work.9 entries
- 03TroubleshootingStructured, methodical fixes for common printing problems.9 entries
- 04Printer BrandsReference overviews of major printer and imaging manufacturers.5 entries
- 05Document WorkflowsRepeatable processes for scanning, printing, and document handling.6 entries
- 06Tools & FormatsReference explanations of printing-related tools, formats, and standards.1 entry
- 07Printing GlossaryDefinitions of printing, scanning, and document terminology.11 entries
- 08Mobile PrintingPrinting from phones and tablets, including AirPrint and related standards.2 entries
- 09Fax TechnologyHow fax technology works and how it evolved.1 entry
A short history
Five eras of putting marks on a page
Guides
Technology Guides
- IntermediateWhat Is a Print Server?What a print server does, why organisations use one, and how it centralises queues, drivers, and access.
- IntroductoryLaser vs Inkjet PrintersA balanced, factual comparison of laser and inkjet printing and which suits text, colour, photos, and volume.
- IntroductoryUnderstanding Printer ResolutionWhat printer resolution means, how DPI relates to perceived quality, and why higher numbers are not always better.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
- TroubleshootingPrinter Shows Offline on Windows 11A focused, safe sequence for resolving an offline printer status on Windows 11.
- TroubleshootingAirPrint Not WorkingWhy an AirPrint printer may not appear from an Apple device and a safe sequence to resolve it.
- TroubleshootingScanner Not DetectedA methodical, safe set of checks when a computer does not detect a scanner or all-in-one's scan function.
History
Printing History
- From line-based output to page printingEarly Computer PrintingHow early computers produced printed output, from line printers to the move toward page-oriented printing.
- The networked-office decadeOffice Printing in the 1990sHow the 1990s office shifted toward shared networked printers, laser output, and document-centric workflows.
- The rise of heat-based receipt and label printingA History of Thermal PrintingHow thermal printing became the standard for receipts, labels, and tickets, and how the two main thermal methods differ.
Mobile Printing
Mobile Printing
Brands
Printer Brands
- XeroxXerox PrintingA neutral reference overview of Xerox's role in office printing, copying, and document technology.
- BrotherBrother PrintingA neutral reference overview of Brother's role in home and small-office printing and multifunction devices.
- EpsonEpson PrintingA neutral reference overview of Epson's role in consumer and office printing, especially inkjet.
About the archive
A calm, factual record of printing technology
PrinterArchive is an educational reference, not a marketplace. No reviews, no affiliate links — only structured, source-ready explanations of how printing, fax, and document technology works and how it evolved.