Plotter Printer

A Plotter printer is an electronic device used to produce printouts or other physical products of digital content, usually on large sheets of paper. The methods of production and the applications of this technology have changed over time, resulting in a wide variety of plotter printers. As plotter technology evolves, theses printers become faster, but they still generally take some time to complete their tasks. Since they are slower than most other modern printers, they are generally not used for regular-sized printing tasks.^[1][2]

Varieties[edit]

Flatbed[edit]

Flatbed plotters have a tray, in which the paper (or other medium) is held stationary. The plotter uses a pair of pens (hollow fiber rods, sharpened at the end) which move vertically and horizontally across the paper, plotting out the final image. These printers are sizable, since they must be larger than their product.^[3]

Drum[edit]

Drum plotters reduced the required size of this technology, which using the same basic method. Paper is attached to a large drum using a pin feed attachment. The plotter then runs pens vertically across the paper, and the paper itself is moved horizontally by rotating the drum when needed.^[3]

Electrostatic[edit]

An electrostatic plotter charges portions of the paper negatively. Older plotters did this by running a line of electrodes across the paper, although newer printers generally use laser, much like any other laser printer. The toner is charged positively, so that it is attracted to the desired areas, where it is then fused.^[4][5][6]

Inkjet[edit]

One of the newest and probably the most popular kinds of plotter uses the inkjet printing method. Liquid ink is delivered to the paper as droplets using the inkjet method ^[3][7]

Cutting[edit]

A cutting plotter does not actually use ink to print forms, and by some definitions, may not even be considered a printer. These devices use a blade rather than a pen, and cut out pieces of material. These pieces are usually used as graphics for signs and other media.^{[3] [7]}

References[edit]