What is a Hard Copy?
A hard copy is a type of material suitable for direct use, meaning that the user can read the material directly, rather than having to process it through a computer or some other technology. The most classic example of a hard copy is printed material on paper. Many industries which work heavily with electronics use the term “hard copy” along with others to distinguish what type of media is being discussed. It is sometimes also called a permanent reproduction, since a hard copy does not change once it has been generated. There are some advantages to a hard copy. For reproductions, hard copies are often preferable to electronic versions. A hard copy can also be read by anyone at any time, as it requires no assistance from external devices. Important and official documents are usually preserved in hard copy form to create a tangible record of the material. In addition, a hard copy is not subject to the failure of an electronic system, and while it can be physically lost or damaged, it can