Plotter Types - Notes, Computer Graphics - Computer Science Engineering (CSE) PDF Download

Overview 
Plotters are special output devices used to produce hard copies of large graphs and designs on paper. Plotters are often used for the production of construction maps, engineering drawings, architectural plans and business charts. They can be a component that is added to your computer system and may have their own internal computer.

Drum Plotter
A drum plotter is pen plotter that wraps the paper around a drum with a pin feed attachment. The drum then rotates the paper as pens move across it and draw the image. It was the first output device used to print graphics and large engineering drawings. There are two types of drum plotters, external and internal. With an external drum plotter, the paper is wrapped around its external surface, while the internal drum plotter uses a sheet of paper wrapped around its internal surface.

Flat-Bed Plotter
A flat-bed plotter is a mechanical drafting device used with many CAD programs for designers. The paper remains stationary on a flat surface while a pen moves across it horizontally and vertically. This plotter may use several different colors of pens to create the graphics. The size of the graphic is limited to the size of the flat-bed plotter's surface.

Inkjet Plotter
The inkjet plotter creates an image by spraying small droplets of ink onto a piece of paper. A popular choice for advertising agencies and graphic designers, inkjet plotters are used generally for large outputs, such as banners and billboards and large signs often seen on roadsides. They are available in thermal or piezoelectric models. Thermal inkjet plotters use heat to apply droplets of ink, while piezoelectric plotters use charged crystals to apply the ink. Inkjet plotters tend to produce better quality graphics than other types of plotters.