Converting PostScript to EPS with PSAlter
Many applications can write PostScript, usually by choosing
'print to file'. But far fewer can produce Encapsulated
PostScript (EPS) files for use as graphics. Still fewer
can attach the 'preview' which allows you to see on screen
what an EPS graphic looks like.
Using PSAlter, you can readily convert many PostScript files
into EPS, with a preview, ready for use with other applications.
Using the Translate function
The simplest way to convert to EPS is to start PSAlter and choose
the Translate function.
Then you will get a familar Open File dialog, from which to choose
the existing PostScript file. The 'translating' screen will appear,
with a progress bar.
When complete, you will see the Export Options dialog, complete
with a preview of the page. From this you select EPS format.
When you hit OK, you choose the file name to save, and the EPS
is written. PSAlter will then terminate.
Exporting EPS in other modes
You are not limited to Translate mode when making an EPS file.
In the View and Workbench modes you can use the File | Export
function to export EPS (or BMP or TIFF) at any time
after running a file.
Details on EPS translation
- PSAlter writes PC-format EPS files with a TIFF preview.
The resolution and mode (colour/greyscale/black and white)
are configurable.
- Under the rules of EPS, only single page PostScript files
can be translated.
- PSAlter writes an EPS header with correct bounding box
information, and an accurate list of fonts required.
- It is incorrect to have any operator to select page size inside
an EPS file. PSAlter will detect and disable most such operators,
so the EPS files are correct.
- There is a list of operators which are not allowed in EPS
files (such as erasepage).
If any of these have appeared, PSAlter issues a clear
error message, warning you that the EPS file may not be correct,
and giving a chance to cancel.
- PSAlter can also read EPS files with a preview. It treats
these as regular PostScript files, but discards the original preview.
This is in case the PostScript is changed, making the preview
wrong.
See also
EPS in ten easy stages
What is PSAlter?
PostScript introduction
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