Abstract: A printhead/paperdrive mechanism wherein the essential parts of the printhead/paperdrive mechanism are assembled into a self-contained unit using a support formed of a single piece of material. The support has a base portion and end portions formed so as to project from opposite ends of the base portion for creating a mounting space. Corresponding guide means are formed in at least the facing sides of the end portions of the support. A platen/paperdrive roller comprising a shaft having a suitable platen/paperdrive material applied between opposite end portions thereof is mounted into the space using a first pair of said guide means and an elongated printing means having opposite end portions which project axially therefrom is mounted into said space by a second pair of said guide means.