We pride ourselves on being technology experts, but we also know how frustrating technology can be. Some would say that, the closer they get to a pressing deadline, the more likely it is that their machines will give them problems.

If you've ever experienced this first hand, you know what we're talking about. Fortunately, we've compiled a comprehensive list of Tips & Tricks for overcoming these technology-induced obstacles.

Here you find acceptable file formats and helpful hints for both printing and digital printing jobs.

• Acceptable File Formats for Print
  Quark Xpress (7.0 or lower)
  Adobe Pagemaker (7.0 or lower)
  Adobe InDesign (CS2 or lower)
  Adobe Illustrator (CS2 or lower)
  Adobe Photoshop (CS2 or lower)
  Adobe Acrobat
  
  Files formats that are acceptable but require reformatting before imaging and possible additional charges:*
  CorelDraw (PC)
  Microsoft Publisher
  Microsoft Word
  
  
• Helpful Hints for File Submission
  - When collecting for output to send to print, don't forget to include all images and fonts (including screen and printer fonts)
  - Include 1/8" bleed on all 4 sides of your document
  - Remember when printing a Four Color Process job to convert all images and colors to CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black)
  - Always link your graphics instead of imbeading them
  - When possible, send PDF Files for print
  - Do not rename graphic files after you put your file on disk. If the files are named incorrectly, they will not link properly and cause delays as well as increase output costs
  - Set black text to 100% black (Not 4/Color text)
  - For large solid areas of black, consider setting the color to 100% black, 40% cyan, & 20% magenta to get a Rich Black
  - Send files that are Single Page Documents (avoid readers spreads)
  - Submit a hard copy with your files
  - Create a copy of everything before sending
  
  
• Adobe InDesign Tips and Packaging
  
• Quark Xpress - Output Instructions
  
• Adobe Acrobat PDF File Prep
  
• Adobe Pagemaker - Save for Service Provider Instructions
  
• How-To Articles
  
  
• Additional Resources
  
  
• Helpful Hints for Digital Printing Design
  - Automated trapping in your software program should be disabled when designing for digital printing. Bleeds require a larger sheet size.
  Because digital presses auto-duplex, pre-test items that require critical front to back register.
  - Convert all color images to CMYK Tiff or EPS format. Save black and white images as grayscale from PhotoShop.
  - Spot colors are reproduced as their CMYK equivalent on a digital press.
  - In digital printing, the darkest black is 100% K. Super Blacks print differently from offset.
  - Remember that the color you see on your monitor shows a wider gamut of color than a digital press can reproduce.
  - Include all fonts and linked graphic files with your job. (Use PostScript Type 1 fonts.)
  - Avoid using images that run across the fold, or instead use light coverage across the fold.
  - Textures print better than solids.
  - Always print on papers that are approved for digital printing. Contact your sales representative for more information