Introduction to Technology

Chapter 11: Graphic Communications

Chapter Summaries

Section 11.1
Graphic communication is also called “printing.” It includes printing with ink on paper and publishing CDs, DVDs, e-books, and Web pages. The type of printing process used is determined by the part of the printing plate that prints. Letterpress prints from the raised part of the plate. Gravure prints from inkwells etched into the plate. Lithography prints from a plate that is flat. Photographic printing uses light. Serigraphy prints through little holes in the plate. Dynamic digital printing prints directly from a computer file. Electronic beam imaging uses an electron beam to create an image. Electrostatic printing prints from a plate charged with static electricity. Ink-jet printing sprays ink directly on the material being printed.

Section 11.2
Desktop publishing is used to print newspapers, stationery, booklets, and other items. Computers and electrostatic printers have made this type of printing possible.