What is the second step of the electrophotographic printing process?

The second step of the electrophotographic printing process is charging. In this process, a photoconductive drum is given a uniform negative charge through the use of a corona wire or charging roller. This charge prepares the surface of the drum to accept the image that will be transferred to paper.

Charging is essential because it allows for the creation of a latent image on the drum's surface, which will later attract toner particles. Once the drum is charged, the next steps in the process can occur, such as exposing the drum to light to create the image.

Understanding this sequence is critical in the context of how laser printers and copiers operate. Each step builds on the previous one, demonstrating the importance of the charging phase in establishing the groundwork for accurate and high-quality image reproduction.