- Why should I supply Postscript or PDF files for Xerox Docutech digital printing instead of Application files?
Creating Postscript or PDF files allows the document creator to lock in fonts, page sizes, text flow, and graphics so they output as the creator intended. Printing from application files can create significant problems for printers. Printer drivers, fonts and printer setups must be exactly the same as those used when you print your proof from your printer.
- What are the advantages of PDF over Postscript?
PDF files are viewable and printable using Adobe's Acrobat Reader which is available for free download from Adobe's web site. This allows the creator to proof the file before submitting to ABCO. PDF files are significantly smaller than Postscript files. Another advantage is that PDF files can be distributed not only in print but also on CD and the Internet. Postscript files are not easily viewable and postscript printers are not common in the office environment. As a result, the file creator would not be able to proof the postscript file that he/she has generated.
- How do I create a postscript file?
Postscript files can be generated easily from almost any common office software application. There are differences in steps based on which application you are working in. Click on one of the following links to see step by step instructions on how to create printable postscript.
- How do I create a PDF file?
PDF files can sometimes be created directly from the application you are running. However, ABCO recommends using Adobe Acrobat Distiller to create PDF. Download the Acrobat Distiller settings for printing to the Xerox DocuTech or the Xerox DocuColor 40.
- What are print drivers and why are they important?
A printer driver is a program that sends instructions from an application to the printer on how to render a page in print. These instructions are customized to the specific capabilities and limitations of the printer. When ABCO prints from an application file, knowing the printer driver allows our server to emulate the proof printer you used to output a draft of your document. Incorrect or missing printer driver information can lead to font substitution, incorrect page breaks, and poor image quality. Again, properly generated PDF or PostScript files eliminate most of these worries.
- What is preflighting?
Preflighting is the process of insuring that your files are ready to print. Please include a completed Preflight Checklist with your print order.
- What Software Applications does ABCO support?
ABCO prefers to receive Postscript or PDF files. However we do support all of the commonly used desktop publishing applications.
- How can I send my files to ABCO?
ABCO supports all of the commonly used storage media. ABCO can also receive files (up to 2MB) via e-mail. In addtion, ABCO maintains an FTP site for the purpose of receiving files for printing. ABCO can provide you with software to simplify the file transfer process.
- What is the resolution of the Xerox DocuTech?
The DocuTech scans and prints at 600 dpi with a maximum line screen of 106lpi.
- What type of papers can be printed by the DocuTech?
The DocuTech can print on a wide variety of papers ranging from 16# bond to 110# index. Please contact your Sales Representative with any specific paper requirements.
- What type of papers can be printed by the Xerox DocuColor 40?
The Xerox DocuColor 40 prints on a wide variety of papers ranging from 24# bond to 110# index. Please contact your Sales Representative with any specific paper requirements.
- What type of files are preferred for Xerox DocuColor 40 digital printing?
ABCO prefers to receive application files for use in printing to the Xerox DocuColor 40. This allows us to make adjustments to the file to achieve the desired output.
- What are the differences in fonts and how do I provide my fonts to ABCO on disk?
The procedure for adding fonts to disk depends on whether the font is True Type or Type 1. For PC users, one way to determine the type is to check in the "Fonts" folder, which is inside the "Windows" folder. If the font is listed here, it is most likely a True Type font, and the icon will display "TT". Otherwise the font is usually a Type 1 font, also known as a PostScript font. A type utility such as Adobe Type Manager typically handles type 1 fonts for Mac or PC. Type 1 fonts will provide higher quality output than True Type, and the two type should not be mixed in a document, to avoid output problems.
For Mac users refer to the graphic below? for identifying which type of font is being used in your document. Then drag and drop the files onto the removable media. For PC users refer to these instructions for adding True Type and/or Type 1 fonts to your media.
