In traditional cartography, an item of photomechanical equipment used for photographic contact exposure consisting of a rigid base covered with a rubber blanket and a hinged glass cover. The frame is designed to hold in close contact two sheets of reproduction material (photographic films and/or printing plates) during exposure. A vacuum pump connected to the base exhausts the air from the chamber. Atmospheric pressure forces the blanket and reproduction material against the glass where they are held tightly together, ensuring optimum image sharpness during exposure. When multiple exposures are required, pin registration devices may be used inside the frame to ensure that each exposure is made in the correct position. This equipment is used in a darkroom when photographic film is used. (See Registration).

A vacuum device used in platemaking that holds material during exposure.

Also called a contact frame; used in the platemaking process to hold materials in tight contact during exposure.