Phototypesetting was an innovative method for setting text for printing, which drastically transformed the printing industry from the mid-20th century until the advent of digital typesetting technologies.
Historical Context
Phototypesetting emerged in the 1940s and became widely adopted in the 1960s and 1970s. It replaced older hot metal typesetting methods that involved physically casting individual characters in metal. This technological shift allowed for more efficient, flexible, and high-quality text setting.
Types and Categories of Phototypesetting
- Early Phototypesetters: Machines like the Photon 200C, introduced in the 1950s.
- Mechanical Phototypesetters: Devices that utilized rotating disks with character images, such as the Linotype CRTronic.
- Electronic Phototypesetters: Systems using cathode ray tubes (CRTs) to project characters, like the Compugraphic MCS series.
Key Events
- 1947: The development of the first practical phototypesetter by Rene Alphonse Higonnet and Louis Moyroud.
- 1960s-1970s: Widespread adoption in newspapers, magazines, and book publishing due to its efficiency.
- 1980s: Decline of phototypesetting as digital typesetting took over.
Detailed Explanation
Phototypesetting works by projecting light through a film containing images of characters, which are then exposed onto photographic paper or film. This method enabled text to be set much faster and more flexibly compared to manual typesetting.
Mechanism
- Character Selection: Selecting characters via a keyboard input.
- Projection: Projecting the character image through a lens onto photographic material.
- Development: Developing the exposed photographic paper to create text.
Importance and Applicability
Phototypesetting played a critical role in the modernization of the printing industry, greatly improving efficiency and the quality of printed materials. It was instrumental in the publication of newspapers, books, and magazines during its peak.
Examples
- Newspaper Production: Newspapers like The New York Times used phototypesetting to meet tight deadlines.
- Book Publishing: Major publishing houses adopted phototypesetting for quicker book production cycles.
Considerations
- Cost: Initial high costs of phototypesetting machines.
- Skill: Required skilled operators to manage and maintain machines.
- Transition: Companies had to invest in new technology and training.
Related Terms
- Hot Metal Typesetting: The predecessor to phototypesetting, using molten metal.
- Digital Typesetting: The successor to phototypesetting, utilizing computer technology for text setting.
- Typography: The art and technique of arranging type.
Comparisons
- Phototypesetting vs. Hot Metal Typesetting: More efficient and higher quality.
- Phototypesetting vs. Digital Typesetting: Phototypesetting was less flexible compared to digital methods.
Interesting Facts
- The transition from phototypesetting to digital typesetting contributed to the desktop publishing revolution in the 1980s and 1990s.
Inspirational Stories
- The Transition to Digital: Many traditional typesetting companies successfully transitioned to digital typesetting, showcasing adaptability and resilience.
Famous Quotes
- “The printing press is the greatest weapon in the armory of the modern commander.” – T. E. Lawrence
Proverbs and Clichés
- “The pen is mightier than the sword.”
- “A picture is worth a thousand words.”
Expressions, Jargon, and Slang
- Galley Proof: A preliminary version of a publication for review.
- Cut and Paste: A term originally referring to manual layout adjustments, now common in digital text editing.
FAQs
Q: What replaced phototypesetting?
A: Digital typesetting replaced phototypesetting due to its greater flexibility, lower costs, and ease of use.
Q: How did phototypesetting impact the printing industry?
A: It increased the speed and quality of text setting, which revolutionized the printing and publishing industries.
References
- Carter, Rob. Typographic Design: Form and Communication. John Wiley & Sons, 2014.
- Meggs, Philip B. A History of Graphic Design. John Wiley & Sons, 2016.
Summary
Phototypesetting was a groundbreaking technology in the printing industry, offering significant improvements over manual typesetting methods. It marked a pivotal shift towards modern text setting, ultimately paving the way for digital typesetting. Understanding phototypesetting’s history and impact provides valuable insight into the evolution of the printing and publishing industries.
