Computerised composition machines are replacing the traditional linotype method of printing.
Linotype printing uses a hot metal type setting system which was first developed in the 19th century.
In some countries, such machines are in museums devoted to industrial archaeology.
This print method is still widely used for newspaper production in Ireland. Each line of type is cast separately with the machine automatically justifying the right hand margin. The slugs of cast type are placed in a shallow tray called a galley. It is the surface of the raised type in the galley prints the story.
New computerised photo composition machines can now do the job of print faster and at a fraction of the cost. With this method of print, a computer is used along with some intricate photographic techniques.
An operator types at a keyboard, much like an ordinary typewriter, which is connected to a computer.
The operator inputs instructions into the computer and it automatically adjusts to match the newspaper's requirements producing a galley form printout suitable for page makeup.
This episode of 'Printout' was broadcast on 4 March 1979. The presenter is John Bowman.
'Printout' was a series focusing on the print media. The programme was presented by John Bowman and Jeananne Crowley.
