metafont
Provides a programming language and system for creating customized bitmap fonts with precise mathematical control over their design and parameters.
Overview
A sophisticated font creation system that allows designers and typographers to define fonts through mathematical descriptions and parametric equations. Rather than working with direct visual outlines, it enables the creation of entire font families using algorithmic specifications.
- Generates device-specific bitmap fonts optimized for particular output resolutions and characteristics.
- Allows mathematical control over every aspect of glyph design, including strokes, curves, and spacing.
- Supports the creation of consistent font families by defining characters through related parameters.
- Particularly valuable for creating mathematical symbols and specialized technical fonts.
- Works seamlessly with TeX systems by producing both the font bitmaps and the necessary metrics for proper typesetting.
- Historical significance as the system used to create Computer Modern, TeX's original font family.
Getting Started
Metafont is a system for creating fonts, not a LaTeX package to be loaded with \usepackage.
Usage: mf [options] font_file.mf
Example: mf '\mode=ljfour; input cmr10'
After creating a font with Metafont, you can use the generated font metrics (.tfm files) in your LaTeX documents. The bitmap output can be converted to formats usable by device drivers using tools from the mfware distribution.