OKI CX3641 MFP Magenta Image Drum
The imaging drum is a very important part of the imaging process, as it is the carrier of the pattern. Drums are photosensitive and take an electric charge where they are exposed to light. This means a light source can effectively draw a picture onto a drum simply by shining onto its surface. A simple comparison would be the way that light exposes a piece of photographic film. From then, the charged drum picks up a pigmented toner and then releases it at a specific time in order to transfer the toner onto a given substrate.
Drums are often the determining component of quality. Because a drum is a carrier of the image, the ultimate quality of the printed piece is limited by the drum. Therefore a higher quality drum will output a better looking printed piece than a drum of lower quality or a drum that is worn out.
Please note that all imaging drums are sensitive to light. With proper care drums can be removed and exposed to light for short periods of time without damage. Longer exposure to light or negligent storage of drums can cause permanent damage to the drum by destroying its ability to carry a finely tuned electrical charge which is essential for it's operation within the printer.
