LP

Updated: 10/23/2024 by Computer Hope

LP may refer to any of the following:

1. Linux command, see the lp command page for additional information about this command.

2. LP is an abbreviation sometimes used for LastPass.

3. With earlier computer motherboards, LP was short for Low Profile. The LPX motherboard is a good example of where this was used.

LP record

4. Short for Long Play, LP commonly describes a 12-inch long play vinyl record album. Records and record players pre-dated tapes and tape players, which pre-date casettes and CD (Compact Disc) players. The picture shows an LP.

The first sold disc records were created by Emile Berliner in the 1880s with his invention of the phonograph. Records like his invention became a popular audio storage solution in the 1910s, as other players like the phonograph, gramophone, turntable, and record player used this technology. Early discs were made from shellac and were later made from PVC (PolyVinyl Chloride). Depending on the size and record format, a record could play for between a few minutes and 22 minutes per side. Records had a groove that contained the audio, which usually started at the outer side of the disc and spiraled into the center. The user places the record onto the player that spun the record and then places the player's needle on the record to follow the audio track. As the audio player needle follows the bumps in the track, it produces audio, which is played through a speaker.

Today, record players and records are considered obsolete and are rarely used.

Note

These records were also known as a phonograph record, gramophone record, record, LP, and black disc.

Computer acronyms, Disc jockey, Obsolete, Record, Sound terms