A specialized device utilizes a spherical printing element, reminiscent of a golf ball, to create characters on paper. This element is imprinted with various characters and rotates to select the desired character before striking an inked ribbon against the paper. A classic example is the IBM Selectric typewriter, renowned for its speed and precision compared to earlier typewriter designs.
This technology represented a significant advancement in typing technology, offering faster typing speeds, higher print quality, and a more consistent appearance than traditional typewriters. The interchangeable printing element also allowed users to switch between different fonts with relative ease. Its introduction marked a pivotal moment in office productivity before the rise of digital printing technologies. This innovation paved the way for future developments in printing and word processing.
