Modular Synth Panels

The HPGL is an ASCII file with commands like PEN UP, PEN DOWN, and MOVE, etc. in the file. So, theoretically (I’ve had the privilege of doing this) you can type your own in or edit an existing one with a simple text editor.

 

Most CAD programs have an option to output to an HPGL/PLT file. That is the best and easiest way to go. You just have to make sure the drawing commands, primitives, etc. you use in your CAD program can be translated into HPGL speak. Not all drawing commands can be effectively translated into the HPGL paradigm, EG: bitmap graphics as opposed to vector graphics.

 

The history goes back to the old HP plotters. The language drove a mechanism moving pens in the X-Y plane. I still remember being fascinated watching the pens fly around.

 

There are some applications which translate from various graphics into HPGL, but I found them to have difficulty on all but the most simple graphics. I recommend looking into Adobe Illustrator and see if they have an option to output a PLT file. Being a vector graphics drawing program, it probably does. Otherwise, you can look at cheap or free 2D CAD packages.

 

David

 

David M. Ingebretsen M.S., M.E.

Collision Forensics & Engineering, Inc.

2469 East Fort Union Blvd. STE 114

Salt Lake City, UT 84121

www.CFandE.com

 

801 733-5458 Office

801 842-5451 Cell

 

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