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HP Indigo 3000 File Preparation
Laser Proofs
We strongly recommend including a laser proof of your document
with your file. This proof helps guide our technicians to
accurately produce your job.
Fonts
All fonts used in your job must be included on disk with your
application files. Without proper inclusion of fonts, your
type may default to another typeface that is less desirable.
When using fonts in Illustration programs such as Adobe Illustrator,
Macromedia Freehand, or CorelDraw, it is recommended to convert
text to paths/outlines prior to saving as an EPS. This will
simplify collecting fonts for your job. For Macintosh Postscript
fonts, include both screen and printer fonts. For PC Postscript
fonts, the font binary (.PFB) and font metrics (.PFM) files
should be provided. For TrueType fonts, supply the TrueType
data file (.TTF). The font size for reversed out type should
not be smaller than 6pt. You will get a better print if you
use a san serif font.
Acceptable File Formats - Graphics
We support virtually all graphic formats used for color graphics
and print publishing. We strongly recommend providing documents
in the native software application format. Excellent results
are achieved by using QuarkXPress, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe
Illustrator, to name a few. Please be sure to include all
fonts when submitting files. Label all files with format and
title.
Acceptable File Formats – Data
| Media: |
Formats: |
| Email |
Character separated ASCII |
| FTP |
DBase (.dbf) |
| Zip Disk |
Foxpro (.dbf, .dbc) |
| Compact Disk (CD) |
Microsoft Access (.mdb, .mdw, .mda, .mde) |
| 3.5" Floppy |
Fixed ASCII |
| 9 Track Tape (1600/6250) |
Microsoft Excel (.xls) |
PDF
To create an Acrobat PDF (for static printing or as a base
template on which variable elements will be overlayed), we
can provide you with the HP Indigo Rip PPD, Acrobat distiller
job options, and detailed instructions for correctly producing
a file for the press.
Supporting Files
To avoid delays with your job, it is crucial that all fonts
and supporting files, such as logos or scanned images, are
supplied with your native application documents. Your document
cannot be accurately output without these files.
Variable Data File
Variable images used in a document must all be the same type.
Do not mix Tiff and EPS images that need to be placed in the
variable image channel. Preferred variable text should be
placed at 0 or 90 degrees for quick RIP. Additional cost may
be applied for angle copy. Use whole point type sizes only-
incremental font sizes may be used at an additional cost.
The typical Variable Data Printing project includes variable
text and/or images printing in the same location on each piece
output, based on consistent fields within the database. While
it is possible to incorporate multiple layouts within which
variables print in different locations, sizes, colors, etc.
based on the layout conditions in the database, we strongly
recommend consulting with our Variable Data Printing Specialists
during the process of job creation to ensure that the desired
output can be achieved and custom programming charges minimized.
Document Size
The HP Indigo supports paper size of 12" x 18".
The maximum image area is 11.7" x 17.2". When preparing
a file for Indigo Digital Color Printing, please set your
document size to the actual trim size. Bleeds can be added
by extending objects outside of the page area by 1/8 of an
inch. Projects without a bleed require a ½ inch margin.
Trapping
With the HP Indigo 3000 press, trapping is not usually an
issue or requirement. Yet it utilizes offset printing technology,
trapping is optional. The standard trap amount should be 0.25pt.,
or 0.0035". Black ink should always overprint, unless
it covers a large area and overlaps with other colored objects.
Scanned Images
Color images should be saved in CMYK Composite EPS or TIFF
format. DCS (5-file EPS) files should not be used and must
be resaved as composite EPS (1-file). Grayscale images should
be saved in Grayscale EPS format. When scanning line art,
logos, or other linework, optimum resolution is 800dpi-2500dpi.
Gradients and Flat Tints
Unlike other digital printing technologies, where banding
is likely to show in gradients and flat tints, the HP Indigo
3000 produces some of the best looking gradient printing around.
It is best to keep the gradient to a small size, and if large
areas of flat tints must be used, consider introducing a noise
or pattern. Lighter colors will generally produce better results.
Black Undercolor
Just as with traditional offset, if there is a large area
of solid black, we recommend creating a "rich" black
color for that area. The standard value for such a black is
65% cyan, 53% magenta, 51% yellow, and 100% black.
Continuous Tone Image Format
Scanned images should be saved in EPS or TIFF format, with
JPEG preview. When saving your files, be sure to save them
in CMYK mode. Also, please be sure not to include transfer
functions or halftone screens. DCS files should be resaved
as composite EPS (1-file). Otherwise, it will print as low
resolution. Reduce RIP time by eliminating excess file information.
Size and crop images before placing in the layout program.
Continuous Tone Image Resolution
Resolution for continuous tone images should be no less than
300dpi at 100% of the final output size. Higher resolutions
can be used, but there will not be a substantial improvement
in image quality and may increase RIP time.
Duotones
Duotones must be saved in EPS format, and for best color reproduction,
should be converted to CMYK.
Printed Position
Like most offset presses, slight variations in page-to-page
image, as well as front-to-back registration, are normal.
Accordingly, a design should not be so tight that an ordinary
change in position will adversely affect the results. Sheets
of labels, business cards, or other repeated images should
therefore be designed to allow at least .25" safe area
for final trimming during finishing operations.
Imposition
It is preferred that all documents be designed using single
page. In multi-page jobs, your design may require impositions
(creation of electronic printers spreads), which utilize the
single page format. Documents should be designed 1 up with
the document sizes equal to the finished trim size of the
final product. We will use an impositioning program to place
the maximum number of items on your press sheet.
Duplex (two-sided) Printing
Small variations in sheet-to-sheet register are normal on
the HP Indigo, and should be considered when designing for
the Indigo. For example, designs with critical borders, type
close to trim areas, and copy that registers to folds should
be avoided. Variation in front-to-back (duplex) printing also
will vary more than on traditional offset presses. Your design
should be tolerant of variations in duplex printing. Critical
front-to-back lineup should be avoided. There is a nominal
variation of less than 0.125". It is recommended that
designs be tolerant of position accuracy of duplex pages.
Paper Specifications
Consult Proven Direct regarding our selection of house stocks
in a variety of weights and finishes for your best value.
Other paper stock options require that: 1) the paper is cut
to 12" x 18"; 2) the paper is acid-free or sapphire
treated; and 3) the paper is between 60 lb. Text and 14 pt.
Cover Weight. We would be happy to test your in-house paper
or recommend a comparable sheet. Minimum requirement for testing
is 500 sheets.
Sending Files to Proven Direct
Sending files to Proven Direct is easy. We accept virtually
all file formats from both Mac and Windows, and on virtually
any media. All of our order forms, in fillable PDF format,
can be found in the "Request a Quote" section on
our Web site.
All jobs sent via e-mail or FTP must be accompanied by a
faxed order form.
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