What Are Inkjet Cartridges?

Inkjet cartridges are a replaceable component in an inkjet printer. The cartridge in filled with liquid ink. Early inks tended to smudge and ran when the paper became wet. Inkjet manufacturers are working to invent a better type of ink that would be more waterproof.

Designs

One cartridge design is the fixed-head, in which the print head is attached to the printer. Another design is the disposable-head, in which the print head is attached to the inkjet cartridge.

History

Before the inkjet printer, there were impact printers. The dot matrix and daisywheel printer used an ink ribbon instead of an inkjet cartridge.

Types

There are three basic types of inkjet cartridges: black ink, color ink and photo ink.

Warning

Inkjet cartridges are not interchangeable. They are designed for specific inkjet printers.

Considerations

Most inkjet cartridges can be refilled when empty. It just takes a refill kit and little bit of know-how. Cartridges can also be recycled to prevent waste from filling landfills.