Abstract: A printer, and in particular a matrix printer, is provided with a carriage guide running parallel in front of a print-surface support for a print-head carriage (3). The print-head carriage (3) supports a print head (4) and an ink-ribbon guide (8), disposed on the print-head carriage (3). The print head (4) can be exchanged even by the operating personnel of the matrix printer by using a print head (4) which is exchangeable in a mechanical guide (6) and which is connected with an electric plug connection (7) and is thus removable and again insertable into the print-head carriage (3). At least one tiltable ink-ribbon guide (8) is disposed on the print-head carriage (3) and serves as a locking means (9) for the inserted print head (4) on the print-head carriage (3).

Abstract: A printing mechanism is provided with a rotary cutter mounted on a printing trolley to enable a recording medium or document to be cut as the printing trolley moves during a printing operation. The recording medium is supported by a platen which has a counteracting edge cooperating with the rotary cutter and a control mechanism operates to actuate the rotary cutter between an active position for cutting and a lifted inactive position with a spring operating to apply a spring force against the rotary cutter tending to urge it against the counteracting edge.