Save your poster in Adobe Illustrator (*.ai) format, or save as a *.pdf file from Adobe Illustrator ONLY. Please do not bring your poster file in PowerPoint format (*.ppt) as this format is incompatible with the plotter and WILL NOT print properly. Likewise, files converted to *.pdf format from PowerPoint (using Adobe Acrobat) will be reduced to 8.5" x 11" which will cause pixelation and fuzziness when the poster is enlarged to the original dimensions for printing.

BEFORE coming to your printing appointment, please verify that the dimensions of your poster are correct. Also, view your poster at 100% to see how it will look when printed, and correct any issues with pixelation or fuzziness if necessary.

If you have to convert your poster or make any adjustments, do so BEFORE your appointment with the Geoscience representative. Posters requiring multiple format or layout adjustments by Geoscience assistants will be billed for extra time and plotter paper use.

Invoice forms (see below) must have an approved UNLV department account number AND a valid administrative signature PRIOR to printing. No exceptions. You may also pay with cash or personal check for this service.

The available paper roll sizes for the Geoscience plotter are 36" and 42". Posters can not exceed 96" in length. We recommend designing your posters with at least a one inch margin on all sides to ensure that the entire poster will print without cutting off any edges (Example: If you choose to use the 36" paper, make your poster 35").

Paper finishes are flat (coated) or glossy (high-gloss).

Extensive or dark colors cost more than sparser, lighter colors. Similarly, posters plotted on glossy paper are significantly more expensive than flat-finish posters.

As a general guideline, posters that include a number of images and graphics reproduce well on the glossy paper. Posters with few or simple graphics, or that are primarily text, will reproduce well on the flat (coated) paper, at less cost to you.

Posters take at least 30-45 minutes to print and dry completely. Formatting your document may take longer. Plan ahead to allow ample time for printing.

Please supply your own protective tube or carrier for transporting your poster once it has been printed from the plotter.

If you have read the above guidelines and are ready to print:

1. Print and fill out this form: UNLV Geoscience Plotter Invoice (.pdf)

2. Please schedule your appointment as far in advance as possible. There is no guarantee that appointments scheduled last minute can be accomodated.

3. To set up an appointment to print your poster, to check the availability of desired paper widths and finishes, or to ask additional questions about using the plotter, please contact:

Rebecca Huntoon
Web, Graphics, & GIS Specialist
Geoscience Department
rebecca.huntoon@unlv.edu