Frequently Asked Questions

• CAD File FAQ
• Large Format Digital Printing FAQ
• Large Format Color Printing FAQ
• Mounting and Laminating FAQ
• Color Scanning FAQ
• Small Format Copies FAQ

CAD FILE FAQ

1. What types of CAD files can you print from?
We can print from any of the following file formats:

• HPGL, HPGL2
• AutoCAD .DWG or .PLT files
• Microstation .PLT or .000 files

2. How do I set up a plot file from CAD programs?
You will need to use an HPGL or HPGL2 printer driver, like the DesignJet 755CM C3198A, which can be found on the Autocad disk. We can also print B&W tiff, and dwg files as well. If you so request we would be happy to fax you an AutoCAD configuration sheet to assist you.

LARGE FORMAT DIGITAL PRINTING FAQ

1. What is the largest size copy you can make?
Large format copies can be produced up to 36" wide by almost any manageable length.

2. What kind of material can you copy onto?
Bond (white, pink, lt green, lt blue, yellow), heavy presentation bond, watercolor stock, vellum, or Mylar.

3. What are the maximum enlargement and reduction ratios?
We can reproduce originals over a wide range of enlargement and reduction ratios ranging from 25% to 400% in a single step.

4. Can you enlarge black and white pictures and newspapers?
Yes.

5. Can you make photocopies of unusual sized originals?
Yes we can. We can copy well logs, seismic graphs, maps, charts, medical X-rays, or just about anything you need reproduced.

LARGE FORMAT COLOR PRINTING FAQ

1. What are the preferred software programs for large format prints?
QuarkXPress, CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, PageMaker, Freehand, PhotoShop, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, MS Publisher and most other professional packages.

2. What resolution do my images need to be for large format printing?
150 ppi (pixels per inch) at the final output size. Increasing the resolution beyond 150 ppi at final output size will not enhance the quality of your image, it will only make your file size larger making it more difficult to manage and take longer to process.

Vector based graphics & text (Illustrator, Freehand, CorelDraw, QuarkXPress, and PageMaker) are scaleable to any size as they are.

3. What should I include when I send in a file for large format prints?
You should include the original file, plus all fonts or placed images used in the presentation. Also include a hardcopy proof.

4. Can Crest Graphics make a large format print from my PhotoShop file?
Yes. Image files should be saved as CMYK at 150 dpi at final print size.

5. Can Crest Graphics match my Pantone colors on the inkjet printers?
Our inkjet printers are CMYK devices and cannot guarantee exact Pantone matching. If color is critical, we can provide you with sample color swatches of variations on the required colors. This will allow you to choose the "best match".

6. I have created my files in Microsoft Word. Can large format prints be made from it?
Word processing and spreadsheet applications adjust margins and graphics based on printer description and are not recommended for print production. If files are created in these types of applications, a hard copy is required when submitting your order, and additional charges for reformatting could be incurred. For best results, we recommend creating your file in one of the applications listed under supported software.

7. Can I submit my file via e-mail?
Yes, files can be submitted via email, although we would greatly prefer you using our Electronic Work Order feature. Always include your name, phone number, company name and billing/delivery instructions on your e-mail requests.

8. Will Crest Graphics make corrections to my file for me?
Crest Graphics does not make corrections to any file sent in for production without direction from the client. All files submitted for production are processed "as-is" unless other instructions have been agreed upon between Crest Graphics and the customer.

MOUNTING AND LAMINATING FAQ

1. What is the difference between Foamcore and Gator Board?
Foamcore is a softer board that is great for single use presentations and trial exhibits, but can warp over a period of time. Gator Board is more rigid and much stronger and designed for long term use.

2. What is Sintra board?
Sintra is a very rigid but flexible plastic for use with trade show exhibits and permanent displays.

3. What is the size of the laminate that Crest Graphics uses?
We can laminate prints up to 58" wide by virtually any length.

4. What is the largest size print that can be mounted in one piece?
We can mount originals up to 48" x 96", larger sizes are available on special request.

5. Can Crest Graphics produce magnetic boards?
Yes. We have a thin metal paper that we can mount to magnets to transform your original into a magnetic board.

6. Does Crest Graphics provide framing services?
We can provide perimeter trim that is a plastic frame that will give your presentation a professional appearance while protecting the edges of the print and mounting board. This trim is available in black & white. Other colors like silver and gold are available by special request.

7. What is cold laminate?
This is a very high quality laminate with an adhesive that is applied with pressure instead of with heat.

8. What is lexan?
Also referred to in the industry as "textured laminate", this substrate is scratch resistant, extremely durable, and excellent for use with trade show exhibits.

9. Does Crest Graphics provide UV resistant laminate?
Yes. Almost ALL of our laminates have UV inhibitors.

1. My originals are mounted on Gator Board, can I still have them scanned?
Yes. We can scan posters mounted on boards up to 1/2" thick and up to 50" wide.

2. Why do my scans have some dust or scratches in them?
While we make every effort to clean your original before scanning, some dust and existing scratches will show up in your scans. For an additional charge Crest Graphics can clean up your scans to prepare them for your use.

3. What information does Crest Graphics need to produce my scan job?
Basically, we need to know what file type, the size of final output, the resolution that you need and how you want to get your scans back.

SMALL FORMAT COPIES FAQ

1. What is the heaviest stock you can run on your copiers?
Up to 110 lb. index stock.

2. What paper sizes can you copy on?
From 8.5" x 11" up to 12" x 18". For larger sizes, contact our Oce 9800 department.

3. Can you print from digital files, and how should they be formatted?
Yes we can print from digital files. Postscript or PDF files are preferred, and when possible, provide a hard copy proof to go by.