🚀 go-pugleaf

Gary,

PDF-x/1 is a standard group of PDF export settings widely used for jobs going to press. In order to conform, ALL components must be in a single CMYK color space, and that CMYK space must be shown in the PDF (output intent). Any CMYK elements in your ID document that are already in the destination space will be left along. Any RGB elements, or CMYK elements that are in a different CMYK space (or an assumed CMYK space that doesn't match the output intent) are converted to the output intent CMYK space on the way to PDF-land.

If your printer doesn't demand PDF-X/1 compliant files, you can use the Press Quality present when exporting to PDF from ID. Leave the General, Marks & Bleeds, and Compression tabs alone. On the Output tab, set the color conversion to "No Color Conversion", and Profile Inclusion to "Don't Include Profiles". All components in your ID document will be sent to the PDF unchanged, even RGB elements and CMYK elements with a different CMYK space. If you want your CMYK numbers honored, this is one way to do it. But, be SURE to put a big note with the submission telling them not to screw with your files....just print the numbers. And get a color proof and sign off before releasing for print. If the proof looks good, then it is their job to match it. If not, well.....back to the drawing board.

You can set compression to Do Not Downsample, but be sure your files are approximately the right rez. Normally, you don't want to send a 150 ppi or a 900 ppi file (at final image size) to the RIP when burning plates. Assuming a normal sheetfed press and line screen, you should be fine with resolutions between about 266 and 400 PPI.

Remember, PDF can create RGB documents for the web, inkjet output, press, etc.

Lou