摘要 |
An improved printer apparatus includes a print head having a series of point-like radiation sources, such as LED's, arranged in a row for exposing a recording medium. Logic means is provided for determining which of the point-like radiation sources are to be selected for energization. A current driver means responsive to the logic means provides electrical current to the radiation sources selected. A current driver means include a current mirror having a master circuit for generating a reference current and a plurality of slave circuits for providing respective driver currents to the radiation sources selected for energization. The master circuit includes a resistor of the type that at least prior to adjustment permits for substantially continuous adjustment of driver current over a range of resistance values. Two independent power supplies are provided to the print head. One power supply provides electrical energy for the logic device at a fixed voltage suitable for the logic devices. A second power supply provides the electrical energy for illuminating the point-like radiation sources. Thus, power to the logic devices is isolated from noise generated during energization of the point-like radiation sources. A variable voltage is provided by this second power supply to permit for flexibility in adjustment of the currents to the point-like radiation sources. This variable voltage may be adjusted in response to aging of the LED's or temperature of the print head.
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