Device for forming latent magnetic images on the recording element of a magnetographic printer

A device for forming latent magnetic images on the recording element (11) of a magnetographic printer, the recording element being driven for displacement along a predetermined direction (F) and being provided with magnetic recording tracks (D1, D2, D3, . . . ) oriented practically parallel to said direction and said tracks being spaced apart from one another by a constant pitch (p), comprising:

• at least two magnetic recording heads (X1, Y1) each having a recording pole (E) the width of which differs from one head to another, the width (e1) of the largest pole being greater than the spacing pitch (p) of the tracks, the width (e2) of the narrowest pole being such that the sum (e1+e2) of the widths of the widest pole and the narrowest pole is less than twice said spacing pitch,
• driving means (33, 34, 35, 36) arranged to dispose said heads successively facing each of said tracks and to permit said heads, when they are selectively excited, to form magnetized points (PM1, PM2) of different sizes centered on said tracks,
• and a control unit means (40) for activating the heads, said control unit means being arranged to excite said heads selectively in such a manner that the magnetized points formed on the recording element do not overlap.