FILE FORMAT STANDARDS

1) All files and disks need to be PC formatted.

2) Vector formats are preferred for all line art (usually solid colors or simple gradations in a wire-frame format) and should be provided in one of the following file formats. NOTE: These vector formats are preferred to maximize reproduction quality because they can be scaled to any size without losing resolution quality. The are the most compact method of sending art via e-mail without compromising resolution.
a) .ai (common)
b) .cdr (common)
c) .dxf
d) .eps
e) .pdf

PLEASE NOTE: There is no advantage to embedding a bitmap image in a vector format if it is not actually drawn as a vector or "wire frame".

3) Please include copies of all fonts included in the graphics files or convert fonts to curves (vectors).

4) Pixilated or bitmapped formats such as a tif or jpeg may be necessary if your art includes illustrations, photos, fine art or airbrushing that cannot be achieved or expressed in a vector drawing. If files are converted to a pixilated or bitmapped format, they tend to increase significantly in size and for large output, generally require burning and mailing a CD rather than e-mailing the image. Feel free to call us if you have questions regarding the best file format for the scope of your project. Given the high resolution quality of our solvent-jet printer, it is best to send an 80 to 150 megabyte file for larger output (large banners or trailer graphics), however, smaller files generally produce acceptable results depending upon your resolution requirements. The following are acceptible bit-mapped formats:
a) .bmp
b) .cpt
c) .eps
d) .gif
e) .jpg (common)
f) .psd
g) .tif

PLEASE NOTE: We prefer you to preserve fonts and layers in a multi-layered file for editability and use of composition elements for other signs in your ad campaign or sign program. Please include copies of the fonts used in the multi-layer file so that we can open the file without altering the original text characteristics and text flow. A fully-rasterized or "flattened" file is acceptable but will have more limited use for your future projects.