DECwriter

The DECwriter was a series of printing terminals produced by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). These terminals were primarily used for hardcopy output in computer systems and as teletype replacements. They were commonly interfaced with DEC's range of minicomputers, such as the PDP and VAX families, but could also be used with other systems via standard serial interfaces like RS-232.

Key characteristics of DECwriter terminals included their relatively low cost compared to other printing technologies of the time, their robust construction, and their ability to print a variety of character sets and control codes. They typically used dot-matrix print heads to form characters on paper.

Different models of DECwriter terminals offered varying features, such as print speeds, character sets, and paper handling capabilities. Some models supported multiple print densities for enhanced legibility. The DECwriter series was a popular choice for many computer users due to its balance of affordability, reliability, and functionality.

The DECwriter family represents a significant era in the evolution of computer terminals, bridging the gap between earlier teletype machines and later, more advanced video display terminals (VDTs). Their widespread adoption contributed to the accessibility and usability of computers in various fields.