New Epson LQ-870 Mono DOT Matrix Printer

Product Specifications & Hardware Details

• Brand: Epson
• MPN: C060021
• Model: LQ-870
• Type: 24-Pin Narrow-Carriage Impact Dot Matrix Printer
• Standard Functions: Letter-Quality Document Printing, Multipart Form Processing, Continuous Tractor-Feed Management, Compact High-Speed Output
• Optional Functions: Serial Interface Connectivity, Automated Cut-Sheet Feeding, Type-B Internal Network Communication Card Upgrades
• What's Included in the Box: Epson LQ-870 Impact Printer, Convertible Push/Pull Tractor Assembly, Standard Fabric Black Ribbon Cartridge, Platen Knob, Paper Guide Tray, and User Installation Guide.
• Required Items (Sold Separately): Continuous pin-feed tractor paper tracking stock, single-sheet paper, and a compatible Centronics parallel interface connection cable.

Technical Specifications

Available Options & Consumables

We stock a full range of official accessories and replacement supplies for the Epson LQ-870. You can add these to your order directly from the accessories tab below:

• Ribbon Cartridges: Premium Replacement Black Fabric Ribbon Cartridges (Epson S015021 / #7753)
• Paper Feed Attachments: Single-bin automated Cut Sheet Feeder options for stacking standard office forms
• Tractor Upgrades: Additional Pull Tractor Unit for advanced multi-path bottom or rear paper routing
• Interface Expansion Cards: Optional Type-B Serial Interface Cards or Ethernet Print Servers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What separates the LQ-870 layout from wide-carriage models like the LQ-1170?
  The core printhead resolution and internal processor architecture are completely identical. The difference lies in form factor: the LQ-870 features a narrow 80-column design built for paper widths ranging from 4.0 inches up to 10.1 inches, making it a space-saving option for retail tables and single invoices. The LQ-1170 features a wide 136-column carriage built for wide ledger formats up to 16.0 inches wide.
• What is the benefit of a 24-pin printhead over a standard 9-pin printhead?
  The 24-pin wire array uses smaller, more tightly clustered impact needles. This allows the system to fire finer dot configurations, producing true Letter-Quality (LQ) text outlines that match professional typewriter standards, while 9-pin systems output blockier Draft fonts.
• Can I run single office sheets or invoices without unthreading my continuous forms?
  Yes. This device includes an automated paper parking feature block. Toggling the physical paper release lever backs your continuous forms behind the platen area safely, letting you slide single sheets, forms, or custom corporate envelopes over the friction rollers without removing your tractor paper from the pins.
• How do I change baseline parameters like line spacing, emulation, or character maps?
  Hardware parameters are adjusted via physical onboard DIP switch rows protected behind front panel doors. These micro switches allow you to choose between Epson ESC/P 2 mode and IBM Proprinter X24 emulation mode, alter default line feeds, adjust international character sets, or shift standard page length settings between 11 inches and 12 inches.