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A "flatbed" computer term typically refers to a flatbed scanner, a device with a glass surface where documents or photos are placed to be digitized. The term can also refer to flatbed printers, which print directly onto a wide range of flat materials, or older flatbed editors, which were mechanical film editing machines that have since been replaced by computer systems.

Flatbed scanner

Function: A scanner with a flat, glass plate on which you place an item to be scanned.

Process: A light source and sensor move beneath the glass to capture a digital copy of the item.

Use case: Ideal for scanning delicate, thick, or bound items like books, or for high-quality digitization of photos and documents.

Flatbed printer

Function: A type of printer that prints directly onto a flat surface.

Process: Uses an inkjet or UV printing process to reproduce digital images.

Use case: Can print on a variety of materials, such as wood, glass, metal, and plastic.