How to load files with embedded contours?

The following information applies to vector files with embedded contours. If you need to know how to prepare this and other files for printing, please refer to the dedicated section.

When you load a PS, EPS, or PDF file, the FileMan module automatically loads all vector paths during the preview process. 

Before importing, FileMan displays the embedded spot colors and vector files. Each contour is associated with a spot color and has a specific name recognized by FileMan.

By default, only contours that start with "CutContour" are recognized. However, you can configure additional names to be recognized as contours.

Recognize other contour names with FileMan

Follow the steps below to add a new contour name to the FileMan module:

1. In Fileman’s main window, click on the Setup… button to open the setup window:
   
2. Then click on the Edit Cut Contour list… button. The cut contour list appears:
   
3. There, use the button on the side to manage your contour list:
   • New…: This button adds a contour to the list.
   • Delete: This button removes a contour from the list.
   • Edit: This button changes the contour name.
   If you type a name followed by a star “*”, every contour that begins with this name will be recognized by FileMan:
   
   

Create and edit contours with Compose

The Compose module allows you to create lines and objects for which cut contours can be generated. Contours are defined in the Compose Setup, which is accessible by clicking the Setup button in the main window and then selecting the Entities tab:

Contours created in the Compose module can be designated as cutting paths. When different images are included in a composition, their edges can also serve as cutting paths.

Non-Embedded Vector Contours

If a contour is located in a different file than the image itself, you can use the Compose module to re-link the contour to the image. 

Verify the contours of your image

You can check at any time if any images in your ImageBar contain cut files. If your image is marked with a cutter icon, it indicates that a cut contour was recognized by FileMan during the import process:

You can also verify the contours of your image via the Info module:

• Method 1: Open the Info module by double-clicking on its icon on the ApplicationBar. Then, drag and drop the image into it.
• Method 2: Drag and drop the image directly into the Info module.
• Method 3: Select the image, then right-click on it and select "About image":
  
• Method 4: On Linux, select the image, then use the shortcut Alt + A.

In the Info module, select the Contours tab to view the list of contours associated with your image. If the list is empty, it means no contours are linked to the image: