Creating PostScript Prepress Files

You'll use this option the least, since it generates a file that almost always gets sent directly to a printer. In most cases, generating an EPS or PDF file is a better option; since it gives the service bureau or commercial printer a more structured document they can usually troubleshoot or print more easily. But sometimes, this option is what the service bureau will want, based on their equipment and expertise.

To create a PostScript prepress file, you have two options. The simplest is to choose PostScript File from the Printer pop-up menu in the Print dialog box, as well as the appropriate PostScript Printer Description using the PPD pop-up menu (this should be the PPD for the ultimate output device). Then set the various options in the Print dialog's panes and click Save when done (the Print button becomes Save when you choose PostScript File in the Printer pop-up menu).

The other method is to print to file. After setting all the appropriate attributes in the Print dialog box (File ‚ Print, or z +P or Ctrl+P), do the following, as appropriate for your platform:

• On the Mac, click the Printer button, choose the Output Options menu item from the pop-up menu in the resulting dialog box, then check the Save as File Option, choose the file format (PostScript, in this case) from the Format pop-up menu, and click Save.

• In Windows, click the Setup button and then check the Print to File option in the resulting dialog box and click Print.