• Use only high-resolution images in your document. All images (BW and 4-Color) should be a minimum of 300dpi. All RGB images should be converted to CMYK, and all images should be saved as .tiff, .eps, or .psd files.
• Check the document for structural integrity using a good preflighting tool. Both InDesign and Acrobat support preflighting.
• All fonts should be included. Do not apply "styles" to fonts using the "stylize menu". Use only the style and weight directly from the actual font menu (e.g. Optima Bold or Optima Italic). When you use the stylize menu, fonts will show correctly on the screen, but they will not always output correctly on high-end RIPs.
• Embed and subset fonts when creating PDF documents from Illustrator, InDesign or Distiller.
• If your document includes transparency, create a custom transparency flattener preset using Illustrator, InDesign or Acrobat, or use the High Resolution default preset.
• Preview separations, ink coverage limits, transparency flattening and overprinting on-screen to get a better idea of how your job will actually print.
• To prevent unnecessary separations from being printed, review the Spot colors in your ink list. Keep Spot/PMS colors consistent. For example, you should not have PMS 320C, then PMS 320CV and PMS 320CVC. The RIP will see these as three different Spot colors. If multiple colors of the same Spot/PMS exist, merge colors. Also, be sure that all Spot colors are identified as Spot and not process.
• For full color offset, large areas of solid black should use a "rich black". Create a CMYK black using 40% Cyan, 30% Magenta, 30% Yellow and 100% Black.
• When naming your files avoid using special characters, e.g. () / ! $ + * @ #.
• White objects/text should NOT be set to overprint. This actually causes the object/text to disappear during the RIP process.
• Layouts should be built to final trim size with a minimum of 1/8" added for bleed on all sides possible.
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