Point
   
Home
 
Books
 
File Formats
 
Glossary
 
Software
 
Tutorials
     
GraphicsAcademy.com  >  Glossary  >  Point

Point

In computerised typography a point is 1/72 of an inch (0.013888 inches), and is often used to specify the size of fonts

The Points system originated with Simon Fournier who, in 1737, first proposed a standardized system based on 72 points per inch. Fournier published a printed scale based on this idea, but as the pages dried, the paper shrank, and thus for many years after printers were stuck with inconsistent tools and measures.

Francois Didot, in 1770, proposed a solution of defining a Point as exactly 1/72 per French inch (French inches are not the same as English inches). Didot's system remained the standard system in continental Europe until the 20th century. The Didot point, in English measurement, is 0.014775 inches.

In Britain and the United States, standardization did not occur until a fire destroyed the foundry of Marder, Luse & Co. Subsequent to the fire, the foundry had to rebuild all its molds from scratch. Nelson Hawks was commissioned by the foundry, and standard his Point at 0.013838 inches (thus 72 Hawks Points are 0.996336 inches).

With the development of computerised typography in the 1980s, a Point was again redefined, this time as exactly 1/72 of an inch (0.013888 inches). This standard is now used in pretty much all computer graphics/typography applications, including in PostScript, Microsoft Windows, and on the Apple Macintosh.


Web Hosting

Related Pages on this site:
Related Books:
  • Computer Graphics Dictionary (Advances in Computer Graphics and Game Development Series)
     
    Computer Graphics Dictionary (Advances in Computer Graphics and Game Development Series)
         		  
    Charles River Media
    Hardcover (460 pages)

    Product Description:
    The popularity of special effects movies and the video game industry has introduced thousands of new terms, techniques, and software applications to both the computing professional and the general user. Unfortunately, these graphics creations represent a convergence of expertise from several different subject areas, resulting in a lack of familiarity with many terms. This unique dictionary includes over 4,000 definitions and illustrations from the computer graphics world, including those from digital filmmaking, animation, programming, mathematics, holography, photorealism, lighting, character creation, game development, modeling, and more.

    List Price: $49.95
    Lowest New Price: $2.18
    Lowest Used Price: $1.99
    Usually ships in 24 hours
    (As of 08:36 Pacific 28 Aug 2008 More Info)

    Buy It Now
     


  • Graphic Design Speak: A Visual Dictionary for Clients and Designers
     
    Graphic Design Speak: A Visual Dictionary for Clients and Designers
         		  
    By Anistatia Miller

    Rockport Publishers
    Hardcover (160 pages)

    Book Description:
    What does a client or art director really mean when they say "I want a clean look" or "The design should be bold"? Graphic Design Speak offers the answers in an easy-to-follow format that both clients and designers can use as points of reference in design briefs or strategy meetings. This book is an essential tool for any designer seeking to gain a better knowledge of the wants and needs of their clients.

    --Over 200 color projects showing specific design solutions to answer client demands

    --An international gathering of designers, studios, and ad agencies

    --Quotes, tips, and anecdotes from both designers and clients

    List Price: $40.00
    Lowest New Price: $4.44
    Lowest Used Price: $2.96
    (As of 08:36 Pacific 28 Aug 2008 More Info)

    Buy It Now
     



 		    
 
Privacy     Terms Of Use

Copyright © 2005-2008, Answers 2000 Limited

With any business, it is up to the individual owner of said business to ensure the success of the business. You may make more or less than any sample figures or results that might be quoted on our web sites or other publications. All business involves risk, and many businesses do not succeed. Further, Answers 2000 Limited does NOT represent that any particular individual or business is typical, or that any results or experiences achieved by any particular individual/business is necessarily typical.

In Association With Amazon.com
All trademarks are property of their respective owners.
All third party content and adverts are copyright of their respective owners.

Some graphics on our web sites are Copyright (C) 1997-2000 Hemera Technologies Inc., and used under license. All such pictures are provided for viewing purposes only and are not to be saved or downloaded. All such pictures of recognizable individuals are models and used for illustrative purposes only, and not meant to imply any association or endorsement of said individual with any product or service.