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Specifying a custom page size


    You can specify a custom page size using the Custom Page Size option in the Page Size pop-up menu. This option is available only if you are using a printer that accommodates various page sizes, such as a high-resolution imagesetter. The PPD file for a laser printer, for example, does not provide this option.

    The largest custom page size you can specify depends on the maximum imageable area of your imagesetter. Consult the documentation on your specific printer for more information.

To specify a custom page size:

  1. In the Separation Setup dialog box, choose Custom from the Page Size pop-up menu.
  2. Do one of the following:
    • To specify the smallest page size needed for your artwork and printer's marks, click OK to accept the default values.
    • To specify a page size larger than the default, enter a new width and height in the Width and Height fields. Be sure to increase the values; decreasing the default values may clip your artwork.
    • If desired, change the placement of the page by entering a value in the Offset field.

    In the first illustration, the page placement is off; in the second illustration, Offset shifts the pages to the left.

    Illustration of page placement with these callouts: A. Film B. Page C. Offset
    Page placement A. Film B. Page C. Offset

    The Offset value specifies the amount of space along the right side of the imageable area. For example, entering a value of 30 points in the Offset option moves your page 30 points to the left.

    • To rotate your page 90 degrees, select Transverse and click OK.

    If your imagesetter can accommodate the longest side of your imageable area, you can conserve a considerable amount of film or paper by using Transverse in conjunction with Offset. Compare the following examples of an image printed by Adobe Illustrator with Transverse on and off.

    Illustration of Transverse off and film saved with Transverse on with these callouts: A. Offset value B. Film saved
    Transverse off and film saved with Transverse on A. Offset value B. Film saved

    When both Offset and Transverse are selected, Offset controls the amount of space between the separations.