FILE PREP & TRANSFER

STEP 1. HOW TO PREPARE PDF FILES

Adobe Acrobat Print Ready PDF files creates a streamlined and efficient workflow. By compressing file size and ensuring all components are embedded (fonts, graphics and print specifications), PDFs in high-resolution (300 dpi) are optimal for production.

FILE SET-UP
Document setup is set to final TRIM size. Single pages (no spreads) include a bleed area that extends a minimum of .125" on EACH side. Ensure a margin/gutter area to allow .25" from the trim, folds, and stitching. Color model set to CMYK (or specified spot colors). Images/Graphics set to hi-resolution (300 DPI).

FILE DETAILS
When possible; include printed proofs, with fonts included, and Hi resolution graphics submitted. (All Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator Files).  Be sure to include crop marks and flatten files.

HOW TO CREATE A PDF FOR PRINT PROJECTS
The safest and most reliable way to make a PDF for DigiLink print projects is accomplished in one of two ways.

OPTION 1.
PRINT POSTSCRIPT & DISTILL TO A PDF USING ADOBE
ACROBAT DISTELLER
To create postscript you must print your project as a file. This option is found in the print dialog box of Quark and InDesign. Use the following general print settings to ensure the best quality output of your project. The location of these settings will vary depending on application, platform and version.
PRINTER & PPD: Select Adobe PDF for both
SIZE & POSITION: Your print file should be 100%, centered and 1" larger than trim.
MARKS & BLEED: Set crop marks on with a 12 pt offset and bleed should be set to .125"
GRAPHICS & FONTS: Include all image and graphic data (no opi) and embed all font data.
COLORS & LAYERS: Include only colors (cmyk or spot) and layers that print (no fpo)
ADVANCED DOs: When given the choice, pick Postscript 3, High Resolution, and Binary
ADVANCED DON'Ts: Never check options that say Simulate, Optimize, Fit, or Password Protect.
After you print the file it should look like 'filename.ps'. Drop this file on Adobe Acrobat Distiller using the PDFX1a 2001 settings and the results will be 'filename.pdf'.

OPTION 2.
EXPORT A PDF FROM QUARK & INDESIGN
The Export feature of Quark and InDesign is found under the file menu. Select your format as PDF and choose PDFx1a as your present. When applicable, use the same settings as you would use to write postscript (see above). The exported PDF does not need to be distilled like postscript.

YOU HAVE A PDF... NOW WHAT?
Now that you have successfully created a PDF for DigiLink to print, open it using Acrobat or the free Adobe Reader (get.adobe.com/reader/otherversions/). Make Sure the project's type, colors and images appear as expected Check the file dimensions, bleed and marks. Print out a copy of the PDF to submit with the job.