A high-resolution output device that takes bitmapped data generated by a raster image processor—such as a digital text or image file—and writes it to film or paper, commonly by means of a laser which exposes the film or paper line by line. An imagesetter is commonly distinguished from a typesetter in that the former can also output high-resolution halftones and other graphics, as well as type. Imagesetters are also used to output color separations. Imagesetters are considered high-end devices, and come in essentially two varieties: drum imagesetters and flatbed imagesetters. Of the two, the former is deemed to produce the higher quality output.
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