What exactly are TrueType fonts?

If you're currently using a Windows or Macintosh device, chances are you're viewing text in a TrueType font right now! Fonts refer to the variety of typefaces a computer uses to present text. Most likely, you're seeing text in different sizes, and you may even be thinking of printing a document. Early computer operating systems relied on bitmapped fonts for display and printing. These fonts had to be made specifically for each size they were to be shown at, and resizing them resulted in poor quality. Printed text often appeared jagged and rough.

In the late 1980s, Adobe introduced its Type 1 fonts, which were based on vector graphics. Unlike bitmapped fonts, vector fonts could be resized (scalable) without losing quality. Adobe also developed the Postscript printing language, which outshone all other options at the time. Both Microsoft and Apple were intrigued by these technologies, but they didn't want to pay Adobe royalties for something that could be crucial to their operating systems. This led to a collaboration between Microsoft and Apple to create their own vector font and printing technologies. Ultimately, Apple created TrueType fonts, while Microsoft's TrueImage print engine never fully materialized.

TrueType technology consists of two main components:

The Rasterizer is a software component embedded within both Windows and Mac operating systems. It collects data regarding the size, color, orientation, and placement of all TrueType fonts displayed, then converts this data into a bitmap format that can be interpreted by the graphics card and monitor. Essentially, it acts as an interpreter, translating the mathematical details provided by the font into a form that the display can render.

The fonts themselves contain data that defines the shape of each character in the typeface. Higher-quality fonts include hinting codes, which help adjust a font that’s been reduced in size for optimal display. Instead of relying solely on the vector outline, hinting codes ensure that characters align precisely with the pixels, making the font clearer and easier to read.

There are countless TrueType fonts available, many offered for free on the Web. Many of these fonts have been scanned and converted from other sources. While most fonts work fine, a poorly created TrueType font can contain errors that might crash your computer. Professionally designed fonts can cost upwards of a hundred dollars each, but they are usually well hinted and tested at various sizes and angles for superior quality. These features are crucial for advertising agencies and publishing companies. For most users, however, free or inexpensive fonts are generally sufficient.

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