Tips for Preparing Electronic Files for Printing
Client-produced electronic files may be electronically submitted to one of our FastPrint
DigiPath high-speed laser printers. Files also may be output on our high-resolution
imagesetter and printed on one of our offset presses at Printing Services on the
Remington campus.
- Provide a hard copy of the final file, output at actual size.
- University logos must be used according to Colorado State University Graphics Standards.
Information about these graphic standards as well as downloadable Print-quality
logos may be found at the
Graphic Standards &
Licensing Website.
- Use only spot color, using the Pantone Matching System (PMS) colors, or CMYK color
in the file and graphics (RGB cannot be reproduced on offset presses).
- TIF or EPS graphics are preferred and should be imported or placed in the document
rather than copied and pasted.
- Provide all screen fonts, printer fonts, and linked graphics and images.
- Photographs should be scanned at 300 dpi (150 lpi) at the actual size.
- Artwork should be scanned at 800-1200 dpi at the actual size.
- Only Adobe Type 1 fonts should be used; True Type fonts may be used, but results
cannot be guaranteed, as these fonts often cause problems on high-resolution output
devices.
Obviously, creating files that reproduce accurately is a demanding process full
of variables. Communications and Creative Services offers a PDF document,
Checklist for Client-Produced Digital
Files
(PDF), which can help you correctly prepare and preflight your files before printing.
You also may consider converting your document to a PDF file prior to submission.
See our
Workflow for Customer-Produced Digital Files
section for an explanation of industry-standard software, preferred workflow, and
money-saving tips.
As there are many variables in your job's specifications and, hence, its output
requirements, please contact your
Communications Coordinator, who will help determine
your needs.