# Calcomp plotter

> computer graphics output device

**Wikidata**: [Q5018853](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5018853)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calcomp_plotter)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/calcomp-plotter

## Summary
A Calcomp plotter is a computer graphics output device classified as a specific type of plotter. It draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife. It serves as a notable example of printer technology designed for precise vector-based graphics.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Subclass of a plotter, which is a computer output device.
- **Function**: Draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife.
- **Category**: Computer graphics output device.
- **Wikipedia Presence**: Has a sitelink count of 3 and exists in English, Norwegian, and Commons language editions.
- **Media Example**: An image of the Calcomp 565 drum plotter is available in the Wikimedia Commons category "CalComp plotters."
- **Video Record**: A YouTube video titled "Calcomp plotters in 1968" (ID: AAc4VLR6-Dg) documents the device; as of 2022-11-27, it had 2,346 views.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of device is a Calcomp plotter?
A: It is a computer graphics output device and a specific implementation of a plotter, which is a subclass of printer designed for vector graphics.

### Q: How does a Calcomp plotter function?
A: Like other plotters, it operates by moving a pen or knife to draw on or cut into paper and other materials, distinguishing it from standard raster printers.

### Q: Are there visual records of Calcomp plotters?
A: Yes, there is an image of the Calcomp 565 drum plotter available, and a 1968 advertisement video exists on YouTube showcasing Calcomp plotters.

## Why It Matters
The Calcomp plotter represents a significant example of early computer graphics output technology. As a specialized peripheral, it played a role in the transition from simple text printing to precise vector-based graphic rendering, which was essential for engineering, design, and architectural applications during its era. Its documentation in advertisements and archives highlights its historical presence in the computer hardware landscape.

## Notable For
- Being a distinct subclass of the broader "plotter" category.
- Serving as a primary example of a computer graphics output device in technical classifications.
- Having a preserved visual history, including the Calcomp 565 drum plotter image and a 1968 advertisement.
- Being recognized in multiple language editions of Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons.

## Body
### Definition and Classification
The Calcomp plotter is defined as a computer graphics output device. It falls under the broader class of "plotter," which is a computer output device that draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife. It is classified as a subclass of a printer.

### Historical and Media Documentation
The device is documented in various media formats. An image titled "Calcomp 565 drum plotter.jpg" is hosted on Wikimedia Commons under the category "CalComp plotters." Additionally, a YouTube video (ID: AAc4VLR6-Dg) titled "Calcomp plotters in 1968" serves as an advertisement record. This video, uploaded on September 21, 2017, has a duration of 134 seconds and had accumulated 2,346 views as of November 27, 2022.

### Digital Identifiers and Presence
The entity maintains a digital footprint across knowledge bases. It has a Freebase ID (/m/03hp2r) and a Wikidata description identifying it as a "computer graphics output device." Its Wikipedia presence includes a sitelink count of 3, covering English (en), Norwegian (no), and Wikimedia Commons (commons).