Bonus Video: Dot Matrix Ribbon Quick Refurb Hack
Added 2023-09-22 04:59:46 +0000 UTCI'm still working on the next proper video, but I got it all filmed and went to record this months printout only to find the ribbon in the printer I was going to use was completely dry and I didn't have a replacement.
So for giggles, I tried dabbing a little isopropanol on the ribbon as it was printing and was able to tease some life out of it. So, I figured if a little is good, a lot must be better! This was a more successful than expected attempt at quickly breathing some life into a dead ribbon again. I'm not sure if it will last or could be optimized, but it at least worked for me for what I wanted it for.
Video Link: https://youtu.be/O3HrI54xe6s
This will end up getting released as a public video later because I'm curious what people might think about this method and potential improvements to it. The spray bottle, while I think is an abomination with the alcohol, seemed like the best way to apply it.
Comments
I hadn't heard of using WD40, I wonder what aspect of it might make it work. But I'll definitely keep that in mind with your results being so good!
Tech Tangents
2023-09-22 17:41:13 +0000 UTCI actually have a different way of rejuvenating ribbons that I read about ages ago on a (i think) geocities site. You use WD40. you open up the cartridge and spray a minimal amount inside making sure to be even, put it back together and then rotate the crap out of the advancing peg with a drill on a slow setting to even it out, then let it sit for about 3 hours. Then its almost as good as new. Ive done this about 4 times to my Imagewriter ii cartridge and it always comes out looking new. The cartridge ive done this to is at least 8 years old now and has printed its fair share of banners, so it’s safe to say it should have been replaced a long time ago, but with that trick, it rises from the dead each time.
Avery G
2023-09-22 06:06:26 +0000 UTC
