This view from the left-hand rear corner shows the printer mechanism with paper and ribbon installed and the platen roller in its normal (rearward) position. The roller travels forward about 1" to press the paper against the ribbon and the raised numerals. The long travel allows the operator a clear view of the printed result.

The mechanism prints 6 lines per inch on a paper roll 2-1/4" wide, but the character spacing is 5mm. The ribbon is 1/2" wide, but the shaft for the ribbon spool is 8mm.

The vertical black cylinder in the foreground is a double-acting oil-filled damper, which slows the movement of the mainshaft in both directions. The damper prevents damage to the mechanism if the operator lets go of the handle on the (spring-assisted) return stroke.

This view from the right-hand side shows the details of the printer mechanism with the platen roller at its maximum forward stroke.

The platen roller assembly pivots on a central shaft, and is moved fore and aft by links to the arms on either side of the mainshaft. The links are fitted with eccentric bushings (in the large hex nuts) to adjust the force of the impression. A large coil spring in the shaft of the operating handle absorbs any over-travel at the end of the stroke, and limits the force that can be applied.

The paper feed, ribbon feed, and ribbon reversing mechanisms are all driven by the motion of the platen assembly.