Photo Plotters

A photo plotter is a plotter that writes using light. In order for the plotter to perform an operation, or write, there are four pieces of information that are required:

• Which tool to use
• When to use the tool, and when not to
• Where to go next
• Whether to go in a straight line or an arc

The tools that are used by photo plotters are specially shaped apertures, through which the plotters' light passes. The shape that is written on the film depends upon the shape of the aperture (tool) used.

There are three ways that the light can be used with the aperture to write on the film; on, off, and flash. Commands are given to the plotter to determine how to use the light, as well as where to go next, and how to get there. It is the combination of all of the commands in the data that determines the design.