Laser exposure Photoconductive material, in the absence of light, allows the negative charge the charging roller placed on the imaging drum’s surface to remain in place. Areas of the photoconductor that are exposed to the laser become conductive and discharge the negative charge on the surface to the metal cylinder of the drum. These discharged areas are what form the electrostatic image. Figure 5-4 Laser exposure Development With the toner cartridge in position, a negative charge is applied to the toner particles. As the developer sleeve and drum rotate past one another, the toner particles are drawn to the drum’s surface.
Areas of the drum’s surface that are exposed to the laser attract and hold the toner while the unexposed areas repel the toner. Figure 5-5 Development 106 Theory of operation C7085-90921