Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving printing quality in electrographic printers includes an electrode device for generating a latent electrostatic charge pattern from electric signals. The electrode device is arranged within a gap area between a particle carrier and a back electrode. During a portion of the operating cycle, preferably when no development is performed, a duel airflow that is charged with positive and/or negative ions is directed into the gap area to neutralize the electrostatic attraction forces between the toner particles, and the electrode device and for achieving a homogeneous charge level on the surface layer of the electrode device. A magnet can be positioned opposite the electrode device so as to attract toner particles.