PC vs. MAC

[default8kh7w749wp5q]

Are there differences with using InDesign on a PC vs. MAC? I have a PC. For example, I am getting errors that links are missing from the InDesign file when opening to edit it. 

[Bevi Chagnon @ PubCom]

The missing links problem doesn't have anything to do with being on Windows versus Mac.

It's how the InDesign file was saved, where it was saved, and where all the linked files are located.

Also in the mix is how you're sharing the files with others. For example, are the files stored on a central file server or share drive that everyone has identical access to? If the files were created on one workstation (either Mac or PC) and then copied to a shared file server or shared drive, then the links will still be "missing" because the INDD file is looking for them on the original computer. The "relationship" is broken.

I'm sure you can Google tons of info about managing InDesign files across workteams. But the problem happens between computers, not specifically Windows versus Macs.

[Barb Binder]

Hi @default8kh7w749wp5q:

The correct way to move an InDesign from one computer to another is to package it on the original computer, zip it, move the file to the new computer and unzip it. This will ensure that the linked graphics are included and that their links are updated. 

https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/how-to/indesign-package-files-for-handoff.html

~Barb

[Eugene Tyson]

The missing link would be the path difference and how Mac writes paths and Windows writes paths.

The other difference would be shortcuts, as both windows and mac have different key combinations due to Macs command key.

Other than that fonts. But in a modern workflow using OTF fonts it should be a non-point in this era.

Other than that - I use Mac and PC daily and there's no difference in general.

[Jeffrey_Smith]

Are the ID doc and links that you are trying to open on a server? If so, do you know the protocols of the server: SMB, AFP, NFS. Multiple protocol servers may cause issues with the associated directory path of link and cause this kind of problem.