Types of Plotter

There are various types of plotter available for various applications, requirements and projects. Following are the types of plotter:

Electrostatic Plotters

In electrostatic plotters, the images are produced on paper by using raster graphics rather than vector graphics. By using toner ink, dot matrix pixels are generated on the paper. The high voltage charges are created on the paper by the plotter, and these charges hit the toner ink for drawing computer-aided designs (CADs). These are much faster and economical in price, but they produce lower quality images than pen-plotters.

Pen Plotters

It is a type of plotter which use a mechanical pen or pencil to draw lines on paper. They are often used for monochromatic technical drawings and illustrations. Pen plotters are appreciated for their precision and versatility. They provide accuracy and speed which make them popular.

Inkjet Plotters

These type of plotters use inkjet technology and colored inkjet pens to provide high-quality color images and graphics. They are best suitable for applications that require vibrant, detailed output, precision work such as graphic design, architectural renderings, and fine art in a less time. They are commonly used for a large printer, like billboards, banners, and big signs that are used for roadside indication.

Cutting Plotters

The cutting plotter is a large-scale cutting machine that uses knives/blades instead of pens to cut the design from a material (such as plastic films or vinyl films) that is lying on the flat surface area of the plotter. The plotter receives a command from the computer, and the knife executes it to cut the media to the appropriate dimensions very precisely. They are commonly used for decals, scrapbooking and cardmaking.

Drum Plotters

Drum plotters, as name suggests, they use a rotating drum to move the paper left and right while one or more fixed pens write up and down. These plotters are capable of producing large-format images and were popular in the past for applications like map making and technical drawings. The plotter’s ability to draw in numerous colors is enhanced by the use of multiple pens. In some LaserJet printers drums are used to print on the pages.

Flatbed Plotters

A flatbed plotter works with paper that is put on a flat surface in a stationary position. In this plotter, the writing pen moves in both the x and y axes. There are various types of pens available in a number of sizes and colors. The paper lye down on the flat surface while the pen (connected to the moving arm) moves and draws on the paper. The paper’s size is governed by the size of the flat surface on which it is placed. Larger flatbed plotters have the ability to print up to 60-inches in length on the paper. They are capable of printing on other materials such as plastic, cardboard, or even metal.

Plotter uses multicolored automatic pens to create lines on paper and reads computer orders. It can create charts, maps, graphs, drawings, and more. It uses one or more automated pens to draw a line.