Plotter

A plotter is a printer like output device used for producing hard copy outputs of charts, maps, drawings etc. Plotters are connected to the computer for on-line plotting.The maps or charts to be plotted (printed)can be saved for future use in magnetic tape or disk.
the following are the important type of plotters :
(i) Pen Plotters
(ii) Electrostatic Plotters
(iii) Dot Matrix Plotters

Flatbed Plotters

(i) Pen Plotters
The pen plotters have one or more pens. It can produce the graphic in different colors and we can shade the selected portion of the graphical as we like.
The pen plotters are divided into two types. They are :
(a) Flatbed plotter
(b) Drum plotter
In a Flatbed plotter, the pens move and the paper is stationary (fixed). In Drum plotter, pens are stable and the paper is moved on the drum.
(ii) Electrostatic Plotters
This type of plotter works without a pen. They work on similar principle as the electrostatic type non-impact printers.
(iii) Dot-Matrix Plotters
The Dot-Matrix plotters work on the same principle as the impact type dot-matrix printers. This type of plotter can not produce the graphic in different colors.The resolution (quality of graphics) of dot-matrix plotters are better than the pen type plotters.