1. Poster Graphics
1.1 Single Panel Poster Graphics
Single panel posters are generally intended to be viewed from a short distance. A complete design that is
contained within one print is considered a poster, or a "single panel", regardless of whether multiple copies are
involved.
Unlaminated posters are images printed on the base material of choice only, such as paper or film, without
being "finished" with an over-laminate. These posters are not protected from moisture or abrasion damage, and
are generally for one-time or short-term use.
Laminated posters have a protective layer on the front and/or back of the print to protected from minor
abrasion damage, moisture, and handling. Laminates increase print rigidity, may increase image longevity, and
can provide a glossy, satin or even textured finish to the poster. Laminating is recommended for long-term
indoor as well as short-term exterior applications. Once a poster is laminated it can be installed with tape,
Velcro, pins, tacks, or grommets. It can also be mounted to a substrate or put into a frame or fixture.
1.2 Proofs / Check-plots
Any design printed prior to final approval or project completion to check colour, layout, or content is
considered a proof. This application does not require good image density, clarity, high resolution, or quality
base material. In most cases, the print is to be used only once, then discarded. Multiple versions with only
slight changes may need to be produced. Therefore, an economical grade of paper is preferred as an
alternative to a more expensive, presentation grade paper.
1.3 Mounted Prints
"Mounted" prints, or "Display Graphics", are prints applied to a rigid material. The added support of the
mounting surface increases the durability and life of the print. This type of post-print finishing can be utilised for
all types of graphics. There are several lamination and base material options for this application, all dependent
on customer requirements for the final "look" of presentation. When shipping, proper packaging is critical as
mounted prints can damage easily.
1.4 Multi-Panel Images
Multi-panel images are prints of virtually unlimited size that require special pre-press setup and post-print
construction. Accurate measurements, forethought and planning are critical to this application. The pre-press
operator must obtain specific output expectations from the end-user or installer to ensure that the resulting
output is successful. With the help of a computer layout programme, images are "tiled" to specific panel
dimensions, incorporating overlap or "butt-seam" construction.
1.5 Billboards
Display size of billboards, as well as appropriate design, will vary. Quick turnaround and image flexibility are a
key advantage of digital printing methods. The final image quality depends not only on prepress and production,
but also proper pasting and installation. Most limitations in expected life of billboards is due to pasting methods.
Flagging, chalking, and other problems are due primarily to installation procedures.
1.6 Billboard Application Tips
• Choose the appropriate "Print Mode" for the application and/or media. X2 is designed to provide sellable
output at high speed. There are a number of printer and RIP settings that help X2 efficiency for high
volume billboard printing such as adjusting resolution and dot screening. Please ask your Xerox supplies
contact for further information.
• Panels should be created with a minimum 2-inch internal bleed and a 2-inch external bleed.
• Panel size should not exceed maximum width one person can handle (48” wide) but is usually
determined by standard as 42”.
• Carefully label panels for easier installation (eg: 1 of 4, 2 of 4, etc.).
• The whole print may be wetted with paste immediately before application. Use a recommended
billboard paste but do not add alcohol or glycol as this dissolves inks.
• POSTING: Installer should follow standard posting procedures. Ensure mounting surface is clean, dry
and free of rust and debris. Loose or peeling portions of a previous layer should be removed and rough
spots should be feathered by sanding. Unfold wet panel. Align top and edge to be joined. Light pressure
with a soft smoothing brush or squeegee should be used to smooth wrinkles and air pockets. Work from
the centre towards the edges.
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