In the world of business logistics, banking, and accounting, the dot matrix printer remains an irreplaceable workhorse. Among the most popular models in this category is the Epson LQ-310. As the successor to the legendary LQ-300, the LQ-310 brings modern speed and connectivity to the classic reliability of impact printing.
Here is a comprehensive review of the Epson LQ-310, detailing why it remains a top choice for industrial and professional environments.
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| Epson LQ-310 |
1. Design and Build Quality
The Epson LQ-310 features a compact, narrow-carriage design that fits comfortably on most office desks. Despite its small footprint, it is built for durability. Weighing approximately 4.1 kg, it feels robust and capable of handling the vibrations of high-speed impact printing.
The control panel is straightforward, featuring 4 switches and 5 LED indicators, making it easy for users to monitor printer status and toggle between draft and letter-quality modes without complex software menus.
2. Speed and Performance
The "LQ" in its name stands for Letter Quality, signifying its use of a 24-pin print head. This is a significant upgrade over 9-pin "LX" models, as it allows for much finer text and more detailed graphics.
Extreme Speed: The LQ-310 is remarkably fast for a dot matrix printer. It can reach speeds of up to 416 characters per second (cps) at 12 cpi (characters per inch). This is roughly 40% faster than its predecessor, the LQ-300+II.
Data Buffer: It is equipped with a 128KB input data buffer, which is double the capacity of older models. This allows the printer to process large print jobs more efficiently, reducing the "bottleneck" effect when sending documents from a PC.
3. Reliability: The "Indestructible" Workhorse
Dot matrix printers are prized for their longevity, and the LQ-310 takes this to the next level.
MTBF Rating: It boasts a Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) of 10,000 POH (Power On Hours). This means the printer is designed to run for years in demanding environments like warehouses or shipping docks with minimal maintenance.
Print Head Life: The print head is rated for 400 million strokes per wire, ensuring that the most critical component of the machine won't wear out easily under heavy workloads.
4. Paper Handling and Carbon Copies
The primary reason businesses still use the LQ-310 is its ability to handle multi-part forms. Unlike inkjet or laser printers, the impact technology allows the LQ-310 to print through multiple layers of carbon or carbonless paper.
Efficiency: It can handle a 4-part form (1 original + 3 copies) simultaneously.
Versatility: It supports a wide range of media, including continuous paper (fanfold), cut-sheet paper, envelopes, and even roll paper.
5. Connectivity and Compatibility
While it uses traditional technology, Epson has modernized the connectivity options to ensure it works with contemporary IT setups:
Built-in USB 2.0: Unlike older dot matrix printers that relied solely on parallel ports, the LQ-310 includes a high-speed USB interface.
Legacy Support: It retains Serial and Parallel (IEEE-1284) ports, making it compatible with legacy systems and specialized industrial machinery.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| High Speed: 416 cps is impressive for a 24-pin model. | Noise: Like all impact printers, it is loud during operation (~53dB). |
| Sharp Text: 24-pin head provides "Letter Quality" output. | Monochrome only: Only suitable for text and simple tables. |
| Multi-layer Printing: Perfect for invoices and receipts. | Low DPI: Not suitable for high-resolution graphics. |
| Low Operating Cost: Ribbons are very inexpensive. |
Verdict
The Epson LQ-310 is the gold standard for narrow-carriage dot matrix printing. It is not designed for beautiful photos or silent home offices; it is designed for utility, durability, and cost-efficiency. For any business that needs to print multi-part invoices, shipping labels, or data logs reliably day in and day out, the LQ-310 is arguably the best investment in its class.