VECTOR vs. RASTER

Vector files are made of mathmatically drawn vectors. These files can be scaled to any size without losing quality. Your image edges remain crisp and smooth no matter how large you make a vector file. Logos and type for print should always be sent to Tradeshowdirect as vector files.

Common Vector File Extensions: .eps, .ai, .ps

 

Raster files are made up of colored pixels in the same way a mosaic is made of colored stones. Digital photographs are always raster files. Raster files are more difficult to enlarge. If image enlargement is needed, there will be a risk of pixelation, as seen in the example to the left. We recommend raster files be sent at 100 dpi (dots per inch) or more at 100% scale (the actual size your graphic will be printed), to avoid this problem.

Common Raster File Extensions: .psd, .jpg, .tif, .bmp, .gif, .png