What is "imagesetter"

n. A high-resolution typesetting device that takes its input from a computer file.

An imagesetter is an ultra-high resolution large-format computer output device. It exposes rolls or sheets of either photographic film or bromide paper to a laser light source. Once the film or paper is developed, a very high quality black-and-white image is revealed. Development (processing) usually occurs in a unit separate to the imagesetter, as does raster image processing.

Imagesetter setter output ranges in width, usually . The resolution of an imagesetter is typically between 1200 and 4800 dpi.

The imagesetter has been largely superseded by the platesetter.

Imagesetter film is a silver halide-coated plastic film very similar to normal black-and-white photographic film, except the spectral sensitivity is reduced to a much narrower band around the output of the laser of the individual imagesetter. This allows the film to be handled under a (usually red) safelight, instead of in total darkness like most photographic film.