Definition
Printout
A printout is a hard copy output from a computer. It can contain selected information from computer files, analyses, or a direct representation of the current screen content. Printouts are typically produced using printers, and their creation may require specialized software or simply the basic operating system programs.
Examples
- Screen Printout: Printing the current display of a computer monitor, such as a web page or a document being viewed.
- Document Printout: Printing a word-processed document, such as a report or letter.
- Statistical Analysis Printout: Producing printed tables, charts, and statistical summaries used in business or academic research.
- Invoice Printout: Generating hard copies of invoices from accounting software.
- Programming Code Printout: Printing code from an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for review or presentation purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is needed to produce a printout?
To produce a printout, you need a computer, a printer, and relevant software equipped with printing capabilities. For specialized outputs, additional software programs that provide specific print formatting may be required.
Can I print directly from any software program?
Most software programs include a print function, often accessed through a menu option like “File” > “Print” or via a keyboard shortcut such as “Ctrl + P”. Certain specialized analyses or graphics may require compatible software to create the desired print format.
What types of printouts are there?
Printouts can vary widely, including screen captures, text documents, spreadsheets, graphical representations, and specialized reports like statistical summaries.
How do I print a hard copy of a web page?
To print a web page, you typically use your browser’s print function found in the browser menu, often under “File” > “Print” or by pressing “Ctrl + P” on a PC or “Cmd + P” on a Mac.
Is there a difference between a printout and a hard copy?
The terms are often used interchangeably. However, “printout” specifically refers to the act of printing output from a digital source, while “hard copy” generally refers to any printed physical document.
Related Terms
Hard Copy
A hard copy is a physical version of a document as opposed to a digital one. It can be produced as a printout from a computer or by traditional means like typing.
Output Devices
Devices such as printers, monitors, and plotters that receive data from a computer and convert it into a form usable by humans, like printed documents or visual displays.
Operating System
The basic software that controls the hardware and basic functions of a computer, including managing print jobs and providing the necessary drivers to communicate with printers.
Printer
A peripheral device that converts digital data from a computer into printed text and images on paper.
Online References to Online Resources
- Wikipedia: Computer Printout
- Investopedia: No specific reference; use general searches related to document printing in office environments.
- W3C: Print technology
- PCMag: Definition of Printout
- Techopedia: Printout Definition
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Joy of Printing: The Art and Science of Printing” by C.J. Arnett
- “Digital Printing Handbook” by Patrick Henry
- “Printing on Demand: A Practical Guide” by Suzanne Wilson-Higgins
- “Printing and Graphics: Background Basics” by John Goulet
- “Graphic Design and Print Production” by David Kennedy
Fundamentals of Printout: Information Technology Basics Quiz
Thank you for learning about printouts and trying out our comprehensive quiz. Happy printing!
