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> University Printing Services
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know when it's better to print my project to an offset press or a digital copier/printer?
2. Why are there typesetting or set-up charges in addition to the printing charges for letterhead, business cards or other projects?
1. How do I know when it's better to print my project to an offset press or a digital copier/printer?
With so many methods for reproducing materials and a wide range of specifications, it can sometimes be difficult to decide whether to offset print, digital laser print or photocopy a project. In addition to economy and quality, there are many variables to consider. University Printing has four high-speed copiers and four off-set presses and each method of reproduction has its advantages. The following general guidelines may be helpful for determining which method is more appropriate for you project. There are, of course, exceptions to every rule.
When to Copy or Digital Laser Print...
- When black image on white or colored paper, up to 1,000 copies.
- When full-color image on white paper, up to 500 copies.
- When duplexing (reproducing both sides at the same time).
- When online finishing (binding) is practical and efficient (tapebind or staple).
- When short turnaround time is essential.
- When collating multiple sets of more than one page.
- When highest quality photos and screens are not paramount.
- When the project is created digitally.
When to Print Offset...
- When black image on white or colored paper are over 1,000.
- When full-color image on any paper is over 500 copies.
- When one-color required is other than black and/or multi-color jobs.
- When highest quality reproduction of photos and screens is desired.
- When specialty papers, such as those with a heavy texture or weight are required.
- When heat-set or laser-safe inks are required: for example any job that will be run through a copier or laser printer after it is printed.
2. Why are there typesetting or set-up charges in addition to the printing charges for letterhead, business cards or other projects?
University Printing must have properly set-up camera-ready art or film negatives to prepare printing plates. University Printing does not perform typesetting services. Instead we rely on the graphic professionals in University Graphics to perform this service. Like University Printing, they are a self-supporting and must charge for their services. These charges are minimal and have been set at a level that still provides overall economy compared to alternative sources.
In some cases where film negatives are required, the university does not have the capabilities to provide this product and this must be purchased from an outside provider. These costs must then be passed on to the customer. In other cases, the flat unit cost of a final printed or copied piece does not adequately cover the additional preparation time or machine time required to produce a copy -- particularly where the quantity is very low. One example of this is our Output Charge for digital color output. In these cases the set-up fee allows us to charge an appropriate amount for the overall service, while keeping per page costs as low as possible.
If you have other questions that you didn't find an answer to here, please see our other online FAQs for Publications and Graphics and News.
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