The word "photostat" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription of /ˈfəʊtəstat/. It is a noun that describes a machine that reproduces documents by photographic means. The word is derived from "photostatic," which means producing an image by photocopying or photography. The first letter "ph" represents the Greek letter "phi," and it is pronounced like the "f" sound. The "o" is pronounced with a long vowel sound, and the second syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound like "stæt."
A photostat is a noun that refers to a machine or device used to produce photographic copies of documents or any other graphic material. It creates a duplication through a process called photostatic copying. Generally, a photostat machine works by exposing the original material to a high-intensity light source, often a carbon arc lamp, which creates a photoconductive effect. This causes the exposed areas of the original document to become electrically conductive, while the unexposed portions remain insulating.
After the initial exposure, a powdered pigment is applied to the original document. The pigmented particles adhere to the conductive areas, forming a visible image. Next, a sheet of paper is placed over the original, and the two are pressed together in close contact. The pigmented image is then transferred to the paper surface through an electric discharge, completing the reproduction process.
The term "photostat" is often used generically to refer to any type of copying machine that creates photographic duplicates. However, it specifically denotes historical devices utilizing the photostatic method. The photostat machine was once widely used in libraries, offices, and other establishments for duplicating important documents, as it allowed for quick and efficient reproduction. However, with advancements in digital scanning and printing technologies, photostats have become less prevalent and are now primarily seen in historical contexts.
The word "photostat" has its origins in the early 20th century. It is made up of two parts: "photo-" derived from the Greek word "phos" meaning "light" and "-stat" which comes from "statos", a Greek word meaning "placed" or "stationary".
Initially, "photostat" referred specifically to a particular type of copying machine introduced by the Commercial Camera Company in the United States in 1907. This machine used a combination of photography and printing techniques to create multiple copies of documents. The machine exposed the original document to light and transferred the image onto a photographic plate or paper.
Over time, as other similar machines were developed, the term "photostat" became a generic name for any type of copy made by a photocopying process, regardless of the specific brand or machine used.