Plotter
A
plotter is a special output device used to produce hardcopies of graphs
and designs on the paper. A plotter is typically used to print
large-format graphs or maps such as construction maps, engineering
drawings and big posters. Plotters are divided into two types:
1. Drum plotters
Drum Plotter
A
drum plotter is also known as Roller Plotter. It consists of a drum or
roller on which a paper is placed and the drum rotates back and forth to
produce the graph on the paper. It also consists of mechanical device
known as Robotic Drawing Arm that holds a set of colored ink pens or
pencils. The Robotic Drawing Arm moves side to side as the paper are
rolled back and forth through the roller. In this way, a perfect graph
or map is created on the paper. This work is done under the control of
computer. Drum Plotters are used to produce continuous output, such as
plotting earthquake activity.
Flatbed Plotter
A
flatbed plotter is also known as Table Plotter. It plots on paper that
is spread and fixed over a rectangular flatbed table. The flatbed
plotter uses two robotic drawing arms, each of which holds a set of
colored ink pens or pencils. The drawing arms move over the stationary
paper and draw the graph on the paper. Typically, the plot size is equal
to the area of a bed. The plot size may be 20- by-50 feet. It is used
in the design of cars, ships, aircrafts, buildings, highways etc.
Flatbed plotter is very slow in drawing or printing graphs. The large
and complicated drawing can take several hours to print. The main reason
of the slow printing is due to the movement mechanical devices.
Today,
mechanical plotters have been replaced by thermal, electrostatic and
ink jet plotters. These systems are faster and cheaper. They also
produce large size drawings.