Core_Computer Studies What is EPS?

EPS stands for Encapsulated PostScript. These files can contain either vector or bitmap images.The files are recognizable by their file extension, which logically is .eps.

Vector EPS

Vector EPS files are created by vector-drawing programs such as Illustrator or Freehand. They are composed of multiple objects and work from the principal of PostScript code. A vector EPS can be reduced and enlarged to any size without any loss in quality.

Bitmap EPS

There are times when bitmap files are saved as EPS images.

Files with clipping paths in Photoshop (an image which you have outlined or clipped so that only certain parts of that image shows and prints when imported into a page-layout program) can only be saved as EPS files.

If opened in Photoshop, this vector image can be 'rasterized' which simply put is the process of changing a vector image into a bitmap image.

Note:

There is a caution warning to be made here about EPS images: most printers won't have any trouble working with this format but your computer's printer might if it is older. EPS files use PostScript code this means that the printer must be what is called PostScript enabled in order to print an EPS image clearly. Most recent printers have PostScript interpreters. It's a feature to consider when shopping for a printer particularly if as a student you are shopping in the secondhand market for economic reasons.

EPS images will work on both Macintosh and Windows platforms.

These notes are written for students who undertake the Core Computer course at School of Art, Australian National University. Students of the course should feel free to contact any member of staff with comments questions and general suggestions..

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