Where are impact printers still commonly used today due to their unique functionality?

Impact printers are still commonly used in auto repair shops because they can produce multi-part forms, such as invoices or receipts that require multiple copies. These printers utilize a mechanism that strikes an inked ribbon against the paper, enabling them to create a physical impression that transfers ink to the forms beneath. This feature is particularly useful in environments where copies of a document need to be provided simultaneously, such as the original for the customer and additional copies for the shop's records.

In contrast, impact printers are less prevalent in residential homes, office buildings, or digital printing centers where higher-quality output, speed, and color printing capabilities are often prioritized. These other environments typically benefit more from modern printing technologies like inkjet or laser printers, which offer better print quality and versatility for tasks that do not necessitate the duplication of forms.