PostScript

Definition: Language designed to specify elements that are printed on a page or other medium e.g. packaging; also called a page description language; also includes programming elements. * De facto standard used by graphics and desk-top publishing programs to instruct printers and image setters what to print (drawings, fonts etc) and at what size. * Ensures resolution- and device-independence because the language uses primitive elements which make no reference to final size or resolution therefore output should be as high resolution as the printer can make it. * Usually works in the background but needs conversion through a RIP (raster image processor) before its files can be printed.

Related Terms: primitives, RIP, TrueType

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