Generally known as multi-part forms, an NCR Form is made using carbonless paper. The most common NCR forms are 2-part (2 sheets), 3-part (3 sheets), and 4-part (4 sheets) making it possible to create 1, 2, or 3 copies from one document. While NCR Forms can be filled-out by hand with a ballpoint pen, they can also be made as a continuous form which can be run through an impact printer (a computer-connected printer that uses a metal or plastic printing head that makes physical contact with the paper through an ink ribbon — in essence, an automated typewriter). The sheets in an NCR Form are color-coded (white, pink, goldenrod, etc.) to make identification of the original document easy and/or to indicate where additional copies should be sent or filed.
What is Carbonless Paper and How Does it Work?
Carbonless paper, also known as NCR paper, was developed by the NCR Corporation and replaced forms that used a carbon paper sheet (i.e., paper coated on one or both sides with a waxy, black carbon substance) inserted between two other sheets to make a copy. Carbonless paper is coated with pressure-sensitive microscopic dye capsules. When pressure is applied, the dye capsules break open and ink is deposited on an underlying sheet coated with a reactive coating affixing the ink to the paper. In 3-part or 4-part forms, each underlying sheet is coated on the front with the reactive coating and on the back with the dye capsules making it possible to create multiple copies from one original.
Common Uses of NCR Forms
Multi-part forms are frequently used for sales receipts, invoices, contracts, purchase orders, medical forms, insurance forms, job applications — any kind of document where it’s desirable to generate an immediate copy or copies when created.
Printing Options for NCR Forms
While most NCR Forms are printed with black ink, adding one or two spot colors is possible to highlight your company/organization logo or to make certain areas of the form more prominent.
If you have any questions about NCR Forms, give us a call at 330-597-8560.
