Guidelines for Input Media: Electronic Prepress
- The recommended format for all job submissions is PDF, and particularly the accredited PDF/X-1a standard which is specifically intended for print. We will certify the PDF through Pitstop. Go to http://www.maple-vail.com/prepress/CertifiedSettings.html for more information.
- Maple-Vail supports PostScript input (Level 1, Level 2 or PostScript 3) and application-only files, but these formats are not recommended. Maple-Vail will PostScript your Quark, InDesign, or PageMaker files at an additional charge. If PDF or PostScript files are not available, please contact your Customer Service Representative in advance to ensure that Maple-Vail is able to support the software programs and extensions you plan to use.
- Please send your PDF or PostScript files with crop and registration marks noted, along with copies of your application files. Set crop marks 18 points away from the trim. If providing only application files, send a complete set of final, full-size laser proofs with crop marks noted, along with the electronic media. For best results, we recommend that you use only Adobe PostScript Type 1 fonts.
- When supplying files that use a new version of application software, please send us live, representative files in advance to test so that your final files can be processed successfully. A 32-page section that incorporates all of the included elements is definitely recommended. For two-color jobs, please provide with your electronic media two sets of final laser output, one composite and one second color. The separate list of Two-Color Tips is an important reference.
- Be sure to include with your order a completed Maple Vail Electronic Prepress Information Sheet. Your Maple-Vail Customer Service Representative will be happy to assist you with this very important document.
- Post your files on the Maple-Vail FTP site or send them on CD/DVD. Supply a separate file or CD/DVD for components such as bookjackets, papercovers, four-color inserts and stamping dies. Please also include a Maple-Vail Electronic Prepress Component Information Sheet for each individual component.
- Label and number each piece of media with your company's name, the book title and author, and any specific file identification, giving each file a unique name.
- Increase the trim size by 1/8" on all bleed edges, and use the same trim size for the entire book, whether or not a bleed occurs on every page. Be aware that jobs with bleeds will require a larger sheet size for printing, and thus must be identified in advance so the proper paper is ordered.
- For electronic art, be sure to include proofs of previously-approved scans. If not received, additional proofs will be made.
- Refer to the EPP File Specifications and Standards sheet for more detailed information.
