Abstract: A tape printing system includes a control apparatus and a tape printer, wherein the control apparatus includes an image data generating section generating character strings and/or image data, and an image data transmitting section transmitting the generated character strings and/or image data to the tape printer, and the tape printer includes a processing pattern storing section storing a processing pattern for each tape type, the processing pattern of processing the character strings and/or image data to printing image data, a tape type determining section determining the tape type of a printing tape, an image data receiving section receiving the character strings and/or image data from the data transmitting section, a printing image data generating section generating printing image data by processing the received character strings and/or image data based on the processing pattern, and a tape printing section printing the generated printing image data on the printing tape.

Abstract: A printhead cartridge and carriage assembly (10) for use with ink-jet printers is disclosed. The assembly is provided with means (56) for ensuring that an ink-jet cartridge (20) is securely locked in place in a cartridge carrier (12), means (78, 78a, 80, 80a, 82, 82a) for ensuring that cartridge is registered in a given, fixed, repeatable position each time, means (128) for ensuring that the cartridge is spaced from the printing medium (40) a minimum, fixed distance, means (100) on the carriage for maintaining this fixed distance, and interconnect means (84) for connecting a printhead assembly (34) on the cartridge with a microprocessor for controlling the pattern of ink drop ejection. The assembly further includes a preloader assembly (106) for preventing backward rotational pivoting of the carriage about a slider rod (44) associated with a platen (46) of the printer and for urging the carriage toward the medium on the platen.