plotter

plotter definition - computer

A graphics printer that draws images with ink pens. It actually draws point-to-point lines directly from vector graphics files. The plotter was the first computer output device that could print graphics as well as accommodate full-size engineering and architectural drawings. Using different colored pens, it was also able to print in color long before inkjet printers became an alternative.

Pen plotters are still the most affordable printing device for CAD use and offer resolution unlike any other printer. The lines are not made up of dots. They are actually drawn, providing infinite resolution. See drum plotter, flatbed plotter, electrostatic plotter and inkjet printer.


_PLOTTER.GIF


Drum and Flatbed Plotters

Both types of plotters actually "draw" the images. The drum plotter (left) wraps the paper around a drum with pin feeds. It moves the paper back and forth for one direction of the plot. The pens move across the paper, creating the other axis. The bed of the flatbed unit (right) determines the maximum size of the total drawing.




_PENPLOT.GIF


Drawing Pens

Pen plotters use drawing pens that provide infinite resolution, because the lines are actually drawn. All other printing devices print dots.






Computer Desktop Encyclopedia THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.
Copyright © 1981-2009 by Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved.

Comments
Improve this definition.
Do you have more to add? Share your linguistic knowledge or observation.
/Register to save your comments.