Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 12/17/2008

Question
QUESTION: So, I have a lot of old files that are made in Illustrator 10.  I am on a new Mac OS X 10.5.5...cannot install Illustrator 10 on this machine.  The only reason I don't convert all my files is because when I update the text it changes the font drastically.  I am trying to make all my files in CS3 but when I choose the same style (Berthold Akzidenz Grotesk medium, point size, stroke, kerning, etc. it still looks different.  I need it to look the same as the old font.  Is there anyway to do this?  Thank you very much!
Also another question...I print a lot of files that are made on Illustrator CS...when I convert them and use the same print settings and paper the color prints extremely different (this is why I don't convert all these files too).  Is there anyway of making this consistent or do I have to color correct every time I "upgrade"?  Thanks again.
Sincerely,
Kelly

ANSWER: Hi Kelly,

Welcome to the world of upgrading. The issue has to do with both your computer and your application taking a major leap forward.

The font issue shouldn't be as drastic as you are saying, there is a nominal shift because of the rending engine upgrade but you should still be able to track/kern to adjust your fonts to match. The size and thickness shouldn't be any different though. However, since you did upgrade to a newer mac from a classic environment to Leopard, there are now open type fonts which are newer versions. This can cause reflow whenever you update your files and you will have to adjust this manually. This has to do with both your mac and Illustrator.

Also for the printing, you should upgrade your printer description files for your printer from the manufacturers website after you upgrade. There are different installs necessary whenever you change applications. CS3 printer descriptions are not the same as CS.

You shouldn't have to adjust your colors when opening older files.

Thanks

Kevin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Kevin,

Thank you for your quick response.
I think I figured out how to manually change the font...I found the second
half of the character box...I forgot that there are 2 more options that change
the font by stretching it wide or tall.

As for the printing...Do you mean the print dialog options or print driver?
I tried installing a newer print driver for the Stylus Photo 2200 but I wasn't
able to select all the options I needed like "enhanced matte paper" etc.  Do
you think since I am trying to use the old driver with the newer Illustrator
that is my problem?  Should I just figure out alternative print settings?
Hope my questions aren't too stupid.
thank you very much I really appreciate it.

Sincerely,
Kelly  

Answer
Hi Kelly,

After you install Illustrator, you will need to uninstall and reinstall your print driver/software from the manufacturer. After you reinstall you should be able to change your paper settings, etc. in the print window of Illustrator (click on the printer button at the bottom of the window). Your old driver will need to be removed first.

Thanks

Kevin