# plotter

> computer output device that draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife

**Wikidata**: [Q193255](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q193255)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plotter)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/plotter

## Summary
A plotter is a computer output device that draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife. It is a specialized type of printer designed for precise vector-based graphics, often used in engineering, design, and art.

## Key Facts
- A subclass of a printer, specifically a computer peripheral that prints text or graphics.
- Examples include the Commodore VC-1520, Silver Reed Colour PenGraph EB50, and the Calcomp plotter.
- Notable models include the IBM 1627 (1960s era) and the Apple 410 Color Plotter.
- Plotters can be electrostatic or cutting plotters, with specialized libraries for plotting.
- Used in fields such as engineering, architecture, and artistic applications.
- Has aliases in multiple languages, including "trazador gráfico" (Spanish) and "ペンプロッター" (Japanese).
- Associated with a subreddit, PlotterArt, for community engagement.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the difference between a plotter and a regular printer?
A: A plotter is a specialized printer designed for precise vector-based graphics, often used in engineering and design, while regular printers are optimized for text and raster graphics.

### Q: What materials can a plotter work with?
A: Plotters can draw on or cut into paper and other materials using a pen or knife.

### Q: What are some notable plotter models?
A: Notable models include the IBM 1627, Apple 410 Color Plotter, and the Calcomp plotter.

### Q: What is a cutting plotter?
A: A cutting plotter is a computer output device that cuts vectors into surfaces, often used in industrial and design applications.

### Q: What is the PlotterArt subreddit?
A: The PlotterArt subreddit is a community for sharing and discussing artistic work created using plotters.

## Why It Matters
A plotter is a critical tool in fields requiring precise vector graphics, such as engineering, architecture, and design. Its ability to produce high-resolution, scalable drawings makes it indispensable for technical documentation, blueprints, and artistic projects. Plotters have evolved from early models like the IBM 1627 to modern cutting plotters, expanding their applications in industries that demand accuracy and detail. Their specialized nature sets them apart from general-purpose printers, fulfilling niche needs in both professional and creative contexts.

## Notable For
- Being a subclass of printers, specializing in vector graphics.
- Including notable models like the IBM 1627 and Apple 410 Color Plotter.
- Supporting electrostatic and cutting plotter technologies.
- Associated with the PlotterArt community for artistic applications.
- Used in engineering, architecture, and design for precise drawings.

## Body
### Definition and Function
A plotter 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 printer and is used for precise vector-based graphics.

### Types and Models
Plotters include electrostatic plotters, cutting plotters, and specific models like the IBM 1627 and Apple 410 Color Plotter. The Calcomp plotter is another notable example.

### Applications
Plotters are used in engineering, architecture, and artistic applications. They are part of a broader category of computer graphics output devices.

### Community and Culture
The PlotterArt subreddit serves as a community for sharing and discussing artistic work created using plotters.

### Historical Context
Early plotters, such as the IBM 1627, were significant in the 1960s. The Commodore VC-1520 and Silver Reed Colour PenGraph EB50 are also notable examples.

### Technical Specifications
Plotters use plotting libraries and can work with various materials. They are distinguished by their precision and specialized functions.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "plotter",
  "description": "computer output device that draws on or cuts into paper or other materials by moving a pen or knife",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q123456", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plotter"],
  "additionalType": "Printer"
}

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. YSO-Wikidata mapping project. 2023
3. BabelNet
4. [Plotter Art](https://www.reddit.com/r/PlotterArt/top/?t=all)
5. GF WordNet
6. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)
7. Wikibase TDKIV