Help creating a script to export DataSets as PNG/JPEG files

[_Guy_Witty_]

Hi Guys,

Firstly, a big thankyou to the guys who helped me understand how to setup illustrator to use datasets (KurtGold you rule!)

Now... I have a file containing 10 DataSets which i would like to export each DataSet as a separate PNG or JPEG file. I have tried to modify the SaveAsPDF script to accomplish this but my coding abilities are very limited.

The script should start by saving the current document (in its current location as the document will have already been saved once before)

Next the script should export all datasets as PNG/JPEG files (the exported images need to be cropped to only show items on the page i.e. an A4 document containing a 10cm square should be cropped to 10cmx10cm. PNG format would be preffered but which ever format can achieve this crop could be used)

The script would then end with the document returning to its last state (as an .ai file). The file cannot be closed by the script as work on the file may continue.

Hopefully someone can help me achieve this

Guy Witty

[JETalmage]

Guy,

Having trouble understanding why you need a script for this. You can do what you describe with a Batch Action, as Kurt suggested.

1. Record an Action which exports as PNG.
2. Batch run the Action, using DataSets as the Source.

JET

[_Guy_Witty_]

Hi James,

The reason we want to use a script to complete this function is as follows.

This method of designing will be rolled out across our company and will be used by people which arnt as technically minded as yourself, or myself. Running an action as a batch process is another process which can confuse or be forgotten about resulting in problems further down the design timeline.
The program we currently use automates this process (albeit in a different way) and runs through this process every time the 'Save' button is pressed.
If we can automate this with a script we can train the users to use the File->Script->SaveAsPNG function instead of using the File->Save Command.
We could, as another route, use a script which will call on the Action and run through the process this way. However this would require the action to be saved on each computer and, as the actions are easily modified or deleted, could result in this link between Script and Action to be deleted resulting again in problems

Hope this is clearer for everyone to understand

Thankyou in advance

Guy Witty

[try67]

Guy,

Can you post an e-mail address? I might be able to help you.

[_Guy_Witty_]

Hi try67 - GWitty@regatta.com