Detailed requirements

Before you send us your files
We'll need you to complete our File submission form and outline anything you think we need to know and send it to us with your files.

Flat (camera-ready) copy
You can send us flat copy in two formats:

Previously printed copy - we'll have to cut up any books you send in so make sure you have a spare copy.
Laser copy - we'll need a good quality print with character definition that's suitable for reproduction.

Digital data
You can send us digital data on the following media:

Floppy disk
CD-ROM/DVD - we'll need these in ISO 9660 format to make sure they are compatible across different platforms
Zip disc (100-250MB) - either Mac or PC

Or by using these transfer methods:

File transfer protocol (FTP) - more on accessing our FTP site
ISDN - on this number: 01249 445535
Email

If you're not sure which is the best format for you/us then please contact us.

Supply us with a hard copy
It's essential that you give us a hard copy (laser proof) of your PDF/PostScript files. Proofs taken from your application files might not be exactly the same as your PDF/PostScript files.

If required, we will supply you with pre-press laser proofs but please be aware these are charged extra and you should factor this into your production schedule.

Data format
We can accept data in PDF or PostScript formats. If you're submitting data:

In either PDF or PostScript they need to be files from desk-top publishing (DTP) software or high-end typesetting systems.
PDF files should be created from PostScript using our distiller settings for either out Eastbourne or Chippenham manufacturing sites.
Please embed all fonts and check that all the images are high resolution.

Application files
We cannot accept application files from a number of programs, (for example, Quark and PageMaker) as the print-on-demand process requires PostScript or PDF input.

Half tones/images
If you're using half tones or images you'll need to do the following:

Position them on your disk embedded within your PostScript or PDF file
Supply them at the right resolution
Link them correctly if you're submitting application files

Please remember, if you need us to integrate the images, we'll have to charge. And if you need to see a proof after we've integrated them then we can supply this at extra cost.

Corrections
You might decide to make corrections to your PDF or PostScript files. If you do:

You'll need to re-supply all the amended pages in the same format. Plus, we'll need a proof for reference.
If you can't supply them in the same format, we can still make corrections. But it will add cost. We'll always send a proof of any amended pages for your approval.

Scanning recommendations
To get the best results, if you need to scan anything please:

Scan halftones at high resolution (twice the line screen setting).
If you need to enlarge halftones, use this formula: (the enlargement should be decimalisation of its percentage enlargement (eg 120% would be 1.2, 150% would be 1.5 and so on - 175(lpi) x 2 = 350 x enlargement = 420dpi. The minimum setting should be 420dpi.
Take into account that screen frequencies are typically 175lpi for our computer to plate technology and 106lpi for our digital presses.
Scan highlights at not less than 10%.
Scan shadows at not more than 90%.

Tints and shading
Please use the following specifications when formatting tints and shading:

Tints should not be more than 5% or less than 90%.
Shading or hatching for pie charts etc must use a recognised PostScript shade or character and have sensible increments.

Please note: enlargement of tints may be problematic. It will always reduce tint value and in extreme cases will become unprintable.