What type of printer utilizes a tractor-feed mechanism?

A tractor-feed mechanism is specifically associated with impact printers. This type of printer uses a system of continuous-feed paper with holes along the sides, which are gripped by a set of sprockets or tractors. The printer pulls the paper through the print mechanism, which enables precise positioning and allows the printer to handle multipart forms and labels effectively.

The use of a tractor-feed system allows these printers to print on a variety of media types, such as carbonless forms, where multiple copies are needed at once. Impact printers, like dot matrix printers, are particularly known for their durability and ability to perform in environments where other types of printers might not be suitable.

Other printer types, such as laser, inkjet, and 3D printers, operate on entirely different principles. Laser printers use electrostatic and chemical processes to fuse toner to paper, while inkjet printers spray liquid ink onto paper. 3D printers create objects layer by layer using materials like plastic, resin, or metal, but none of these types utilize a tractor-feed mechanism. This makes the impact printer the only type of printer that employs this method effectively for continuous feeding of media.