PDF’s

A PDF can contain vector and raster data as well as text.

The rules for scaling a PDF are the same as for contents.

A properly created PDF is an excellent choice for high end printing and is quickly being adopted by many as their choice of formats for printing.

I would suggest visiting the Acrobat forum where the real PDF experts hangout.

Bob

Tommo,

PDF’s are postscript language.<<

No, they’re not, they are PDF’s which is different…..

Are PDF’s scalable like Vector graphics?<<

If they only contain vector data, Yes. If they contain raster data then no.

How does postscript tell the screen what to do? <<

It doesn’t. There is no PostScript interpreter in the O/S.

Which programs are used other than Illustrator for enlarging a PDF

size(inches), <<

PDF’s are NOT designed for editing, or as a data exchange format. They are designed for viewing on screen and for printing and that is all.

Are PDF’s good for sending to printers for high end results?<<

Excellent, provided they are created with that in mind, and is becoming the ‘normal’ press workflow

Thanks guys…..I think I’m gettin’ it.

Whats the best way to create a complex PDF?….photoshop seems good? (you can’t use acrobat reader right?…least, I can’t even figure out how to start a document in Reader, or creater anything new…just edit acrobat reader docs.)

Tommo, may I suggest you a further web reading <http://www.pdfx3.org/faq.html> on pdf issues for press?

Gustavo:
Thanks, that is a very interesting development for graphics. I bookmarked it and will read it in depth.

Tommo,

One question I didn’t answer…..

2. What is the main difference between the two.<<

PostScript is just a page description language. It details position and content for printing and that is all.

PDF supports inter-active user input via JavaScript support, embedded movie and sound files, basic animation and form filling and submission, to name a few of the differences.

It IS postscript® based.