In the 1980s, copies were commonly known by terms such as mimeographs and photocopies, depending on the method and machine used to create them.
The Mimeograph: A Distinct Copy of the 80s
During the 1980s, especially for producing large quantities of inexpensive duplicates, the term mimeograph was frequently used to refer both to the duplicating machine and the copies it produced. These machines, capable of creating cheap copies, remained a popular fixture in many offices, schools, and organizations well into the 1990s, highlighting their prevalence in the preceding decade.
Understanding Mimeograph Copies
Mimeograph machines worked by forcing ink through a stencil onto paper, resulting in characteristic copies often recognizable by their slightly raised ink and distinct smell. They were particularly valued for:
- Cost-effectiveness: Making multiple copies was significantly cheaper than other methods for certain applications.
- Simplicity: They were relatively straightforward to operate.
- Specific Uses: Ideal for bulletins, worksheets, internal memos, and newsletters where high-quality reproduction was not the primary concern.
The word "mimeograph" itself has roots in ancient Greek; it derives from mimeisthai, meaning "to mimic, represent, or imitate," perfectly reflecting its purpose of duplication.
Beyond Mimeographs: The Rise of Photocopies
While mimeographs served a specific niche, the 1980s also saw the increasing widespread use of photocopiers. These machines produced what became known as photocopies or simply dupes (short for duplicates), offering a different set of advantages:
- Quality: Generally produced clearer, sharper images than mimeographs.
- Versatility: Could copy a wider range of originals, including photographs and more complex documents, without needing a stencil.
- Convenience: Often faster for single or small batches of copies, especially as technology advanced.
The terms "copy" and "duplicate" were, of course, generic terms used for any reproduced document, regardless of the method. However, "photocopy" became the standard descriptor for copies made by modern electrophotographic processes.
Mimeograph Copies vs. Photocopies in the 80s
The choice between a mimeograph and a photocopier often depended on the specific needs, volume, and budget. Here’s a comparison of their typical characteristics:
| Feature | Mimeograph Copies | Photocopies |
|---|---|---|
| Common Use | High-volume, low-cost internal documents | General-purpose document reproduction |
| Appearance | Often bluish or purplish ink, slightly faded | Black and white, sharp, professional look |
| Process | Ink forced through a stencil | Electrostatic process (toner and heat) |
| Cost per Copy | Very low | Relatively higher, but decreasing |
| Speed | Fast for large runs once stencil was made | Fast for single or small runs |
| Typical User | Schools, churches, small offices | Businesses, academic institutions, public use |
The 1980s was a transitional decade, where both traditional mimeograph technology and emerging modern photocopying shared the office space, each contributing to how "copies" were made and referred to.
