TECH TIPS

Frequently Asked Questions

When using Repro Desk, which AutoCAD print driver is best to use?

HPGL2 driver and it can be downloaded from our website.

What are the advantages of using Reprodesk to send files via FTP?

Océ Reprodesk is a free software utility that allows you to view and arrange your PLT files into jobs that can be sent directly to Cushing. When viewing files in Reprodesk you can be assured that every page will print exactly as it looks on the screen; this includes size, orientation, and pen weight characteristics of each drawing. Reprodesk sends files via a FTP Internet connection, eliminating file size limitations normally associated with emailing.

What type of files can I send with Reprodesk?

You can send HPGL2 plot files, PDFs, Word and Excel documents using Reprodesk. Reprodesk version 4.35 or later will allow you to send DWF files. Color files should always be forwarded without (NOT) processed. Please do not zip the drawings before inserting them into the Reprodesk job. Insert them as separate files. Reprodesk compresses them automatically during the process of sending them to our facility.

As an added convenience you may send us your transmittals and distribution lists (Word/Excel documents) for shipping and distribution.

Can I send Color Plot files to Cushing using Reprodesk?

Yes. Insert the plot files into Reprodesk as usual but do not press the process button. Please mention in the job instructions that you want the drawings in color.

If I used my CTB File when creating the Plot file, what pen table should I use in Reprodesk?

Use the HPGLAUTO as your default pen set. HPGLAUTO interprets your custom pen set information embedded in your plot file. This eliminates the need for you to create custom pen sets in Reprodesk.

If I send you an AutoCAD drawing file (dwg) via email, what instructions do you need for printing?

In addition to the normal printing instructions we will need to know the scale/sheet size, CTB’s, special fonts and all xrefs. There is an extra charge for this service due to all of the extra man hours required to correctly process drawing files (dwg).

How do I create PLT files using AutoCAD?

Download Plotting Instructions(Plotting Instructions. PDF)

I have a CAD drawing file from a design program other than AutoCAD. Can you print from this file?

Yes as long as you create an HPGL2 plot. Feel free to call us with your circumstances and we will be happy to help you get the proper results.

What versions of AutoCAD drawing files can you take?

We can accept AutoCAD Release 2000, 2004 and 2006 drawing files. Please telephone us about other releases.

What characters to avoid when naming Plot files?

DO NOT name your plot files with special characters like full stops (.) or commas (,) within them. A plot file with a special character in it will become corrupt when sent. Hyphens, underscores and brackets are permitted. e.g. test_plot.plt

Which file types are preferred for plotting?

PLT – As with PDF and TIF files, pen settings and x-ref drawings are integrated into the file. If the PLT file is made with your custom CTB, pen settings will be embedded in the file. It is important, however, to let us know if you made your PLT file with your pen settings embedded or not; this could affect the file result of your plots.

PDF – PDF files do require some additional processing time, but like a TIF file, it does not require pen settings or x-ref files.

DWF – DWF is the file extension for the drawing WEB file associated with Microsoft WHIP AutoCAD Reader. It is also the file execution for Autodesk vector graphic files.

TIF/CALS – A TIF file is an image file of your document. TIF files require no processing and are ready to print; there is no need for pen settings or x-ref files.

What does DFS stand for?

Document Fulfillment System

What does PDM stand for?

Project Document Management

What does ITB stand for?

Invitation to Bid

What is the difference between a Public and Private portal?

A Public portal does not require the user to have a username and password to log in. Public projects may have a project password associated with them.

A Private portal requires that a user registers and has a unique username and password to log in and view projects.

Who do I call if I forgot my username and/or password for DFS?

Please call us at 312-266-8228 and ask for the DCA or email production@cushingco.com.

Can Cushing create TIF files from PLT or PDF files?

Cushing can convert your PLT or PDF files for a nominal charge. Or we can provide you with PDFs from your PLT or TIF files.

What if I don’t have a usable file format?

Many programs that use their own proprietary file formats may allow you to save your drawing to a different format. Some software applications may allow you to make a PLT file in much the same way as described in Plotting Instructions PDF. It may also be possible to export your drawing into a different file format like a PDF. If you are unable to export your drawing into one of our printable file formats you can always ask us to look into it by emailing the file to production@cushingco.com.

Can you make photocopies of unusual sized originals?

Yes we can. We can copy maps, charts, medical X-rays, or just about anything you need reproduced.

Are your computers PC or Mac Compatible?

The majority of our computers run the Windows operating system, however, we can open Mac formatted disks that contain PDF, PLT, or TIF files. We do not have the capability to open Mac version DWG files.

What kind of material can you image on?

What kind of material can your digital bond printers image on?

Is there an optimum format in which to save my files?

Yes, sending us TIFF files or PDF files is essentially like sending us a hard copy image. Do you need to know how to convert your files into a TIFF or PDF? Contact Cushing’s IT department.

Am I limited to color printers when producing RevLine drawings?

No. RevLine drawings may be printed on a wide variety of printers, both color and monochrome. Changes are much easier to find when the RevLine drawings are produced on a color or highlight-color device.

Will RevLine work with scanned drawings?

No. RevLine drawings may be produced by comparing digitally created drawings. Supported file formats include:

* Requires a local installation of eiStream Imaging for Windows, purchased separately.

Will I be liable if a RevLine drawing does not clearly depict a change?

No. A RevLine drawing is not a governing contractual document. A RevLine drawing is simply a tool to help identify additions and deletions. If necessary, use the labeling feature to print a notice to this effect on every RevLine drawing.