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July 18, 2019
Question

Large format prints require setup in Windows print settings

  • July 18, 2019
  • 1 reply
  • 2936 views

Hello. We have a large format printer (HP DesignJet Z6200) that we are struggling to print properly on from InDesign. Illustrator does not seem to have this problem.

On the Setup tab, the default paper size is listed as "Defined by Driver." But the dimensions are 8.5in x 11in which is standard letter size. We can change this to custom and it will populate with the dimensions of the file: 10.5in x 58in. This is the size we want. When we print, it only prints off a part of the document (I've measured the short side at 8.5in, so it must be using letter size.) Changing the orientation does NOT make a difference even though the print preview looks correct on the horizontal options (this will change which section of the graphic prints, however.)

If I click Setup at the bottom of the print dialogue, it warns me to use the desired print setting in InDesign, if is available, to avoid conflicts. From the Windows print dialogue I can then go to Preferences > Paper Options > Document Size, and use the custom dimensions. Once I do this, I press Print on the Windows dialogue, am taken back to the InDesign print dialogue, and hit Print there, the job prints as desired.

Shouldn't InDesign be pulling the custom dimensions automatically? If not, shouldn't it be easier to set them in InDesign and avoid using the Windows print settings? It warns to do so anyway, so I am a bit confused. Thanks for any help; let me know if I can clarify anything.

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    1 reply

    Derek Cross
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    July 18, 2019

    It’s normal to print from a PDF produced from InDesign, select PDF/X-4, tick Crop Marks and Use Document Bleed Settings.

    JDan24Author
    Participating Frequently
    July 18, 2019

    Where do I select PDF/X-4? Also, Crop Marks is already checked, but Use Document Bleed Settings is not. I will try checking that one once I find the option for PDF/X-F. Thanks for your assistance.