Three common categories of cash register paper

The common classifications of cash register paper typically include:

1. Thermal Paper (Thermal Paper):

• This type of cash register paper uses thermal technology to print. The printer head generates heat that activates a special coating on the paper, causing a color change that forms text or images. Thermal paper usually consists of three layers: a base layer of paper, a middle layer of thermal coating, and an outer protective layer. The quality of the thermal coating directly affects the print quality and durability, while the protective layer helps reduce the effects of light exposure and prolongs the clarity of the printed content.

1. Plain Bond Paper (Plain Bond Paper):

• Plain bond paper is traditionally used for non-thermal printers, such as dot matrix printers. This type of paper does not have a special coating; instead, it relies on a ribbon to transfer ink. The quality of plain bond paper depends on the paper itself, with good quality paper featuring a clean appearance, good tensile strength, and smoothness.

1. Carbonless Paper (Carbonless Paper):

• Carbonless paper is a special type of paper that does not require carbon paper to create duplicate copies. It is typically used when multiple copies are needed, such as for invoices and receipts. Carbonless paper usually comes in two or three layers, each containing a micro-encapsulated dye and a developer coating. When written or printed upon, the pressure causes the dye to release and react with the developer coating on the underlying sheets, forming clear text or images.

These different types of cash register paper are selected based on the printer technology and the application requirements. For instance, thermal paper is popular in retail due to its quick printing and lack of need for ribbons; plain bond paper is suitable for long-term storage needs; and carbonless paper is ideal for situations requiring multiple copies.