Several models of IBM's LaserPrinter series were built around the Lexmark 4019 print engine, beginning in 1989. The IBM 4019 was an important entry into the printer market as it was the first desktop laser printer designed and built in the US. The subsequent 4029 models, released in 1991, were the first printers introduced by Lexmark as an independent company. The 4029 family of printers, which ranged from 5-10 ppm, were all based on the 4019 engine. In 1993, Lexmark introduced a line of 4039 printers, featuring a new PCR-based cartridge, ranging in print speed from 10-16 ppm. The 4049 engine, introduced in 1994, was featured in a new line of Optra® network printers boasting print speeds ranging from 12-16 ppm. With the 4049 Lexmark introduced yet another PCR-based cartridge. Overall, the printer/cartridge design is very similar between the 4019, 4039 and 4049. Some cartridge components are interchangeable, while others, such as toner and developer rollers, are not.
The development technology featured in Lexmark 4019/39/49 cartridges is very different from the technology featured in other cartridges, particularly the Canon-based cartridges: non-magnetic toner (Lexmark) vs. magnetic toner (Canon), doctor bar (Lexmark) vs. polyurethane doctor blade (Canon), polyurethane developer roller (Lexmark) vs. magnetic developer roller (Canon), and pure electrostatic development (Lexmark) vs. jump development (Canon). These differences in technology and components dictate a set of remanufacturing and cleaning procedures tailored specifically for Lexmark cartridges in order to effectively manage the cartridge and its components.