Abstract: A ribbon guide for use with a dot matrix printer having a printhead traversable along a path parallel to a printing platen and which includes means for selectively shifting the ribbon guide to one of several positions. The ribbon guide includes a central body portion which pivotally mounts on pivot pins to the printhead. A pair of faceted ring segments are formed on the central body portion for supporting the ribbon as it passes through the ribbon guide and over an opening in the central body portion adjacent to the printhead. The central body portion is also formed with a pair of support members at opposite ends each having a faceted outer surface for contact with the printing paper. In addition, the support members include a slit for releasably securing an endless loop of ribbon to the ribbon guide to allow field replacement of a ribbon guide.

Abstract: Typing ribbons stored in cartridges are reinked by the use of an apparatus having a plurality of drive devices arranged to pull the ribbon through the reinking mechanism and return the ribbon to the cartridge without placing stress on the cartridge case or rewinding mechanism. The apparatus includes a bracket for securely mounting the cartridge with the ribbon threaded over a self-inking drum. A drive system is provided for rotating the inking drum and pulling the ribbon by a drive capstan to maintain a taut condition. A variable speed motor is included for returning the ribbon to the cartridge through its reloading mechanism. Sensors and an electrical control circuit are provided for automatically stopping the reinking process at its completion or if a defect in the ribbon is detected.