perf

perf
 /perf/, n.

   Syn. {chad} (sense 1). The term perfory /per'f@-ree/ is also heard.
   The term {perf} may also refer to the perforations themselves, rather
   than the chad they produce when torn (philatelists use it this way).
    

chad
perf
selvage
snaf

   <jargon, printer> /chad/ (Or "selvage" /sel'v*j/ (sewing and
   weaving), "{perf}", "perfory", "snaf").  1. The perforated
   edge strips on paper for {sprocket feed} printers, after they
   have been separated from the printed portion.

   The term {perf} may also refer to the perforations themselves,
   rather than the chad they produce when torn.

   [Why "snaf"?]

   2. (Or "chaff", "computer confetti", "keypunch droppings") The
   confetti-like bits punched out of {punched cards} or {paper
   tape} which collected in the {chad box}.

   One of the {Jargon File}'s correspondents believed that "chad"
   derived from the {chadless keypunch}.

   [{Jargon File}]

   (1997-07-18)