This area is designed to help with hardware and software issues encountered by our customers. Listed below are answers to the most commonly asked questions.

If you have a question that is not listed here, please email jamesc@precisionblue.com or click here to access an information request form that can be submitted to PBI.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why should I create print-read files?
2. How do I make a plot file?
3. What kind of files can PBI print from?
4. Can I edit a scanned drawing into AutoCAD?
5. How do I send files to PBI?
6. Where are you located?

Why should I create print-ready files?

Price - Native files formats such as .DWG, .DGN, .DOC, .WPS, etc., must be converted to print ready file formats for plotting (large format) and printing (small format). The conversion embeds scale, fonts, layers, sheet size and pen settings so that the file is ready to print when it is received. If you do the conversion, you save since you have eliminated a step for us.
Accuracy - When you create a file, it contains certain information that is critical during printing. The information includes such things as fonts, scales, pen settings and Xrefs, added graphics, and print drivers used during the creation of the file. When you create a print-ready file, all of this information is embedded in the file thus eliminating any errors due to missing fonts, Xrefs, print driver information, etc.
Turnaround Time - When you send files in their native format as opposed to a print-ready format, and any of the critical information is missing, we have to delay your print order until we can reach you. Once we've obtained the needed information, we will still need to process the file and make it print-ready. Your turnaround time has just increased considerably.

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How do I make a plot file?

To create a plot file, follow the same step you normally use to print your drawings. The only difference in creating the plot file is to make sure that you check off (activate) the box "Plot to File." You can choose the location where the files are written by checking the "File Name" button. For more detailed information click here.

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What types of files can PBI print from?

PBI offers a variety of printing services in black & white and color from a variety of files types including, DWG, DWF, PLT, TIFF, CAL, JPG, DOC, WPD, PSD, CDR, CPT, and many others. Please check with us if you do not see the file type you use listed here.

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Can I edit a scanned drawing in AutoCAD?

In most cases, no. AutoCAD drawings are vector images (produced using match such as x=y=z=). Scans are raster images (produced using a series of varying pixel colors.) Although it is possible to import a scanned image into AutoCAD, unless you are using an add-on package with AutoCAD, your editing capabilities are very limited. PBI does offer a TIFF to DWG conversion that will vectorize the raster image into an editable DWG. This can be done, although the process can create a VERY large file. This file size will depend on how clean the original is.

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How do I send files to PBI?

PBI supports file transfer using email, FTP, and a specialized software for sending complete sets of drawings. We run a dedicated T-1 line to provide the speed you need. One thing to consider if trying to send email. Some email services do limit file sizes being sent. If you are sending one or two files, email may work for you. However, you will need to give us directions as to sheet sequencing, etc. FTP or our ReproDesk software is preferable for transfer of multiple files. For assistance on setting up either of these options, please email jamesc@precisionblue.com

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Where are you located?

PBI serves the entire Chicago area. We are conveniently located near the intersection of I-88 and I-355 – both major expressways accessing other major arterial routes throughout the city. See map for more details.

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