Relink source file

[jay fresno]

I've imported a Photoshop file into Captivate 7. Captivate converted it to a PNG in the Library.

Then I edited the original Photoshop file.

There are a couple of commands I hadn't noticed in previous versions: "Edit PDF Source File" and "Update from Source"

When I choose Update from Source a message appears:

"Unable to update since the source file is mising. Relink the source file before you proceed."

The location of the source file has not been moved or renamed since it was imported into Captivate, so I don't know why I'm getting that message. I can't find an explanation anywhere as to how to "relink."

Is there an easy way to relink (or do I have to re-import the file, resize, reposition, etc)?

[Lilybiri · Accepted solution]

Jay, do you see the Photoshop file as a separate folder, containing the layers, or the flattened image in the Library? There should be a green light next to that folder, that shows that it is linked and synchronized.

Lilybiri

[jay fresno]

Yes, I see it. Apparently this feature is unique to Photoshop PSD files, not other types of inserted images. I don't understand how the PSD files are going missing since they are all in one folder that has not been moved or renamed. Maybe I am inadvertantly making a change.

[JoNichols]

Hi Jay,

As per Lieve's response, if you have the round link it will now be a black question mark if the link has been broken if this is the case, click on it and captivate will ask where the file is located.

If you do not have the round link select the image in the library and select the properties icon and then select the edit to update location.

[jay fresno]

i hadn't noticed the Properties icon in previous versions. When it's a PNG file, using Properties icon opens the file in Fireworks. Is there a setting to change Captivate to open the PNG in Illustrator or Photoshop instead?

[JoNichols]

From the library panel right click on image name and select "edit with" you can now choose any application you would like to use to edit the image. If you are using photoshop files you need to import them in their psd format via  file>import>photoshop,

[Lilybiri]

Jay, I'm always importing assets first to the Library, rarely direct to the stage. And when importing to the Library, when possible I'll take the original file: WAV for audio, PSD for Photoshop etc. If you import a PSD-file, you'll be able to choose for a flattened image (as was the case for the screenshot) or to import with all layers. In both cases the flattened image, or the layers will each be converted to a PNG-image, but you'll keep the 'link' with the source file, in the same way as you can have a link with a PPT. In previous versions roundtripping with the source file was only avalaible in the eLS, but now it is there if you have Photoshop CS6 or CC installed on your system. I have several PSD-files with many layers. One example: for localisation I'll have text layers in the PSD in different languages, and import those layers (flattened or not) that I need in a specific file. Same with colours, masks, layer styles... My first Adobe love was Photoshop, not Captivate You understand that I love that roundtripping with the source file.

Lilybiri

[jay fresno]

Lilybiri,

Thanks for the additional explanation. As far as I can tell, inserting a PSD file from the File menu or importing it into the Library makes no difference and the same choices are available. Is there a reason why you prefer to import to Library?

I didn't have the eLearning suite and discovered the new round Photoshop roundtripping feature by accident. Strange that Adobe didn't mention this very important feature as one of the new features when advertising version 7.

[Lilybiri]

I was just explaining my work flow. The library is very important to me, I often also use external libraries, another feature that is too little known by Captivate users. And I very rarely use one of the menu options, seems to be too far on my big screen, I'm a shortcut and toolbox freak.

Not all the features do get enough publicity, think it is because of the confusion after the EOL of the eLearning Suite which was not told immediately after the release of CP7. Those users who do have Photoshop, Audition get automatically the roundtripping now. But... we'll have to wait for next release of Audition CC, because the first CC version broke that roundtripping (it works with CS6). Just wanted to tell you that as well, so that you don't have to discover it also by accident.

Lilybiri

[jay fresno]

Thank you, Lilybiri. Your comments and tips are very useful and very much appreciated.