Cold type refers to a typesetting process conducted by computer, xerographic, or photographic methods. This approach contrasts with traditional hot type, which relies on molten metal for typesetting. With the advent of sophisticated cold-type machines, many publications are now produced in-house, streamlining the process and reducing dependency on external printing plants.
Types of Cold Type
Computer Typesetting
Computer typesetting involves using digital software to arrange text and images for print. Software like Adobe InDesign and QuarkXPress are prominent tools in this category.
Xerographic Typesetting
Xerographic, a photocopying technology, creates high-resolution text and images by projecting them onto an electrically charged drum, transferring toner, and then fusing it onto paper.
Photographic Typesetting
Photographic typesetting uses light to expose images of characters onto photographic paper or film, then developed through chemical processes.
Historical Context
Evolution from Hot Type to Cold Type
Hot type, involving casting metal type, was the dominant printing method until the mid-20th century. The transition to cold type began in the 1950s with the introduction of phototypesetting, expanding dramatically in the 1970s and 1980s with advancements in computing.
Applicability
In-House Publications
Cold type’s main advantage is ease of use and low cost for in-house publications. It allows companies to manage their typesetting and printing processes without needing external printing services.
Commercial Printing
While initially used for internal documents, cold-type technology has extended to commercial printing, where it offers flexibility and reduced setup times compared to traditional methods.
Comparison with Hot Type
Efficiency
Cold type is significantly quicker and more efficient than hot type. Hot type requires physical type setting, heating metal, and casting letters, making it time-consuming.
Cost
Cold-type technology typically incurs lower costs since it avoids the materials and labor-intensive processes associated with hot type.
Flexibility
The digital nature of cold type enables easy editing and reformatting, catering to modern publishing demands more effectively than hot type.
Related Terms
- Typesetting: The process of arranging text for printing.
- Lithography: A printing method that involves creating images on a flat surface using chemical processes to repel ink except where the image is to be printed.
- Offset Printing: A commonly used printing technique where an inked image is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the printing surface.
FAQs
What is the main difference between cold type and hot type?
Can cold type be used for high-quality publications?
Is cold type more economical than hot type?
References
- Allen, N. (2011). Printing and Publishing Terminology. The University of Chicago Press.
- Blau, J. (1998). The Evolution of Publishing and Printing. Midwest Publishing.
Summary
Cold type revolutionized the printing and publishing industry by introducing efficient and scalable methods for typesetting. It leverages computers, xerographics, and photographic processes to create high-quality prints quickly and cost-effectively. With the decline of hot type due to its labor-intensive processes, cold type stands as the preferred method in today’s technological age.
