Typewriter Alignment and Adjustments
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Skill Certificate in Vintage Typewriter Repair course at Stanmore School of Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Backspace Key #
A key on a typewriter that, when pressed, moves the carriage one space to the left. Related terms: typebar, platen, carriage.
Bail #
The part of a typewriter that holds the paper in place as it is typed on. Related terms: platen, paper holder, paper bail.
Carriage #
The part of a typewriter that holds the paper and moves back and forth as text is typed. Related terms: platen, typebar, bail.
Carriage Return #
The action of moving the carriage back to the beginning of the line after typing. Related terms: line spacing, platen, typebar.
Escapement #
The mechanism that controls the movement of the carriage and typebar, allowing for accurate and consistent typing. Related terms: typebar, carriage, platen.
Font #
The style and size of the type on a typewriter. Related terms: type slug, typebar, typeface.
Line Spacing #
The distance between lines of text on a typewriter. Related terms: platen, typebar, carriage return.
Margins #
The blank spaces at the beginning and end of a line of text on a typewriter. Related terms: platen, typebar, carriage return.
Platen #
The rubber-covered cylinder that the paper is wrapped around as it is typed on. Related terms: carriage, typebar, bail.
Segments #
The individual pieces of the typewriter that come together to form the typeface. Related terms: type slug, typebar, typeface.
Tabulator #
A mechanism on a typewriter that allows for the quick and easy alignment of text. Related terms: typebar, platen, carriage.
Typebar #
The part of a typewriter that holds the type slug and strikes the platen to create typed text. Related terms: type slug, platen, carriage.
Type Slug #
The individual pieces of type that make up the font on a typewriter. Related terms: segments, typebar, typeface.
Typeface #
The overall design and style of the type on a typewriter. Related terms: type slug, segments, typebar.
Typewriter Alignment #
The process of adjusting the typewriter to ensure that text is typed straight and evenly. Related terms: tabulator, platen, typebar.
To align a typewriter, the following steps should be taken: #
To align a typewriter, the following steps should be taken:
1 #
Check the platen for any warps or bulges, as these can cause text to be misaligned.
2 #
Adjust the tabulator stops to ensure that text is aligned properly when tabs are used.
3 #
Check the typebar for any misaligned or damaged segments, as these can cause text to be uneven.
4 #
Use the margin stops to adjust the width of the margins, ensuring that text is aligned properly at the beginning and end of each line.
5 #
Test the typewriter by typing a few lines of text and checking for any misalignment.
By following these steps, a typewriter can be accurately aligned, ensuring that… #
By following these steps, a typewriter can be accurately aligned, ensuring that text is typed straight and evenly.
Typewriter Adjustments #
The process of making minor adjustments to a typewriter to ensure optimal performance. Related terms: typewriter alignment, type slug, typebar.
To make adjustments to a typewriter, the following steps should be taken: #
To make adjustments to a typewriter, the following steps should be taken:
1 #
Check the type slugs for any debris or buildup, as this can cause typing to be inconsistent.
2 #
Adjust the typebar for proper striking distance, ensuring that text is clear and legible.
3 #
Check the escapement mechanism for any wear or damage, as this can cause typing to be uneven or inaccurate.
4 #
Test the typewriter by typing a few lines of text and checking for any inconsistencies or issues.
By following these steps, a typewriter can be properly adjusted, ensuring optima… #
By following these steps, a typewriter can be properly adjusted, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
In summary, this glossary provides detailed and comprehensive definitions for ke… #
From the backspace key to typewriter adjustments, this glossary covers the essential concepts and acronyms needed to understand and work with vintage typewriters. By understanding these terms and their related practical applications, learners can gain the advanced skills necessary to repair and maintain vintage typewriters.