How to Export PDF Color Separations to PostScript in Acrobat
Question details
The user needs to export individual color separations from a PDF document to a PostScript file for RIP processing.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Preparing a PDF file for high-quality professional printing using a Raster Image Processor (RIP).
- Observed behavior
- Acrobat produces a composite output instead of individual color separations when attempting to export to PostScript using the default settings.
Ensure you have downloaded and installed the correct PostScript Printer Description (PPD) file for your specific RIP model from the manufacturer's website.
Select the Specific RIP Model Printer Description
Change the printer description in Acrobat's print settings to your specific RIP model instead of the default to unlock color separation options.
By default, Adobe Acrobat uses a generic printer description that only supports composite color output. To generate individual color separations for Prepress workflows, you must tell Acrobat exactly what your RIP (Raster Image Processor) is capable of by assigning its specific PPD file.
Open your PDF document in Adobe Acrobat, click on 'File' in the top menu, and select 'Print' to open the print dialog box.
Click the 'Advanced' button located near the top of the Print dialog box to access the PostScript and output settings.
In the Advanced Print Setup window, locate the 'Printer' or 'PPD' dropdown menu. Change the selection from 'Acrobat Default' to the specific PostScript Printer Description (PPD) file associated with your RIP model.
Navigate to the 'Output' panel on the left side of the Advanced window. In the 'Color' dropdown, select 'Separations'. You can now export or print your PDF as separated PostScript files.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the color separations option greyed out in Acrobat's output settings?
This happens when Acrobat is set to use the generic 'Acrobat Default' printer description. You must select a specific PostScript Printer Description (PPD) for a printer or RIP that supports separations to unlock this feature.
Where can I find the correct PPD file for my RIP software?
PPD files are typically provided by the RIP or printer manufacturer. Check the manufacturer's official support website to download the latest PPD driver for your specific model and operating system.
Can I preview color separations in Acrobat before exporting to PostScript?
Yes. Before printing or exporting, you can use Acrobat's 'Output Preview' tool located under 'Print Production'. This allows you to visually inspect the individual CMYK and spot color plates to ensure the document is set up correctly.
