 |
|
|
More and more businesses are relying on PDF
files to transfer company documents and to send camera-ready artwork
to printers. Here is what you need to know to open a PDF file, to
create a PDF file, and other ways to utilize PDF files in your business.
Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat is a software package that converts just about any
type of file into a PDF (portable document format) file. The PDF
file format is the most reliable, efficient way to share documents
across platforms --Windows, Macintosh, or UNIX. The layout, content,
fonts and graphics in your file are preserved and can be viewed
and printed. To view and print PDF files you will need the free
Adobe Acrobat "Reader" software. You can download this
program from www.Adobe.com.
Professional Page Layout
Programs vs. Word Processing Programs
Professional page layout programs such as Adobe PageMaker, In-Design,
and Quark Xpress are designed for creating documents for commercial
printing. They have the capability to handle fonts, graphics, color
separations and other essential pre-press operations. By contrast,
word processing programs such as Microsoft Word are designed to
perform in the office setting and fall short in providing the pre-press
features. However, you can use Adobe Acrobat software to convert
a black and white Microsoft Word file into a pre-press compatible
PDF file.
Creating a PDF File for
Your Printer*
To create a PDF file of your document (i.e.: the interior pages
of your book) for offset printing, you will need to purchase the
Adobe Acrobat software program that includes the "Distiller"
module for approximately $250. You will also need to get the "job
options" file from your book printer, and drop it into the
Distiller "settings" folder. This tiny file has all your
printer’s technical specifications for printing the job at
his/her plant. First, convert your document into a "postscript"
file, embedding all fonts and images at high resolution. Then, launch
the Adobe Acrobat software, and under "job options" select
your printer’s company name. Select the postscript document
you just made, and the Distiller software will convert it into a
PDF file. Any errors that may occur will appear in an alert window
at this point. Always print a final proof from this PDF file to
check for possible missing fonts and other errors. Send this proof
with your PDF file to your printer. Be aware that printers will
charge a fee to fix your file and may add a surcharge for PDF files
made from Microsoft Word documents.
Helpful Tips
If you have imported graphics be sure your photos are 300 DPI and
in the TIF or EPS file format. All line art needs to be 1200 DPI.
Don’t use the "style palette" to create fonts that
you don’t have (ie.: if you have the Times font, but not the
Times Bold font, don’t make your font simulate Times Bold by
choosing the "Bold" in the style palette). Stay with B&W
for text and graphics if you are doing your page layout in Microsoft
Word. Use a professional page layout program to make color files
for offset printing. Bleeds require extra steps, so please request
the complete step-by-step instructions listed at the end of this
article. Note: Only twenty percent of pre-press service providers
and printers know how to work with PDF files. Research printing
companies to find one that you are comfortable with and has good
technical support. If you feel overwhelmed with the technical aspects
of this process, seek the help of a graphic designer. A designer
can format your raw word processing files, provide professional-looking
graphics for the book interior and cover, and save you lots of time
and money.
Creating a PDF File for
the Web
The plug-in called "PDF Writer," included in Microsoft
Word 2000 for Windows program is a limited version of Acrobat Distiller.
Do not use this to make a PDF file for your printer. PDF Writer
is fine for creating B&W or color PDF files for the web or for
files opened and printed on personal computers. PDF Writer files
can be part of your web site, (as a downloadable document), an email
attachment, an ebook, or an on-line fill-in form.
To receive a free PDF document that provides step-by-step
instructions for creating PDF files, please send an email to karen@macgraphics.net.
*The word "printer" in this article refers
to a professional printing company.
Back to articles list.
|
