Fonts

Font files contain data which tells the output device how to image the type in your document. A font file is a standardized format for describing typographical characters. Output devices rely on these files to render the type in your document. In order for your documents to look as you intend them to, you must include your font files with your job so we can install them on our system and use them when we output your project.

On the PC, fonts are generally found in the Fonts folder in the System folder. The name of the system folder varies according to what operating system version you are using. They can usually be accessed via the Fonts control panel. You will need to provide us with all files associated with each font used in your document. For a TrueType font there will be one file, a .ttf. For a PostScript font there will be two files, a .pfm and a .pfb. Unfortunately, these files are not named exactly the same as the font names, and it may take some effort to figure out which files you need to copy. A type utility such as Adobe Type Manager Deluxe will make it easier for you to keep track of your fonts on the PC.

On the Classic OS 9 or lower Mac, font files are stored in the Fonts folder in the System folder. The files are generally named exactly the same as the font names. For a TrueType font there is one suitcase containing files which are for screen display and printed output, and for PostScript fonts there is a suitcase containing screen (raster) versions of the font(s) and PostScript font files which are used for printed output.

One an OS X or higher Mac, fonts can be found in the Fonts folders, located in the User/Library folder and the System/Library folder. For a TrueType font there is one file containing information which is used for screen display and printed output, and for PostScript fonts there is a suitcase containing screen (raster) versions of the font(s) and PostScript font files which are used for printed output. In OS X the suitcases can't be opened, but you should still include them with your files.

Another emerging font technology is the OpenType format. You can read about this new format and how to use it on your system at Adobe's website under Products / Type / Type Topics / OpenType.

Rather than describing fonts in any more depth here, we will direct you to Adobe's website, where there is an extensive section describing various font technologies. Since Adobe has participated in developing many file formats used in desktop publishing output, their site serves as a primary source for many of the subjects we cover here. The Type Topics section of their site can be accessed under Products / Type Products / Type Topics