Abstract: A large-format plotting device is provided for transferring an image to a relatively large sized medium. A data processing device is used to divide the surface of the medium into a plurality of relatively narrow segments. A beam sweeping device, which can include a high energy beam such as a laser beam, is provided for sweeping the beam the width of the segment. The data processing device causes the beam to turn on and off to define a portion of the desired image. A movement mechanism is included to either move the beam generating device or the support for the medium at a desired velocity so that each sweep of the beam will produce a raster line whereby the entire segment will be swept forming a plurality of parallel raster lines covering the entire segment. The movement mechanism also includes placement mechanism for laterally moving the medium support or beam generating device to the next adjacent segment in sequence until the surface of the entire medium has been imaged.