Expert: Amy - 9/16/2003

Question
the color seperation button (in the print window)is greyed out and also on the file menu..I've tried reinstalling illustrator but that didnt help...Im using ver 9 and winxp
thanks

Answer
Hi Tony.

That means that you don't have a PostScript printer driver selected --maybe you don't have a PostScript printer to work with at your location.  Separation doesn't work on inkjets.  BUT you can fool it.  Read on.

If you *are* indeed working on a PostScript printer, first select that printer in your Print Setup, then, in Separation Setup, which should now be available, choose a PPD file to work with. Bunches of those come standard on the AI install CD. And usually with your printer software. (PS printers only, remember).

If you only have an inkjet, but you want to see your seps, go to Adobe.com and download and install the generic PS driver.  Then select that driver in AI's Print Setup and you'll fool AI into thinking you're going to print to a PS printer.  When you select it, Sep Setup should become available. Choose any PPD in Sep Setup when using this method.

Hope this helped!

Amy Pace