Types of Flatbed Plotter Printers
A flatbed plotter prints on objects as they lie flat, horizontal to the floor. They are useful for large documents, and with new technology, can be used for more than just blueprints.
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Pen
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The oldest flatbed plotter printers used a refillable pen mounted on a mechanical arm. The pen drew the design on paper that was on a roll. The roll was mounted flat and unrolled to form the drawing surface. The pen had to be refilled during work or the whole design had to be redone. These plotters were limited in color by the number of pens they could hold, and were primarily used for blueprints and mechanical designs.
Inkjet and Laser
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With the advent of inkjet printing technology, like that used in many home printers, plotters could print more colors. The basic set-up of the plotter is the same, but the pens were replaced by inkjets. Laser plotter printers exist, but laser printing is more expensive than inkjet and therefore less popular. Many companies that make familiar home printers also make some style of plotter.
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Other Uses
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Some flatbed plotters can be loaded with other printing surfaces besides the rolls of paper. This includes cardboard, foamcore, or even wood. The pen-type plotters can be made to use other tools besides a pen, such as knife cutting tools for paper or grinding tools for cutting plastic material.
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