EPS, which stands for Encapsulated Postscript, is basically a type of vector image file. Instead of pixels, these consist of curves and lines. As a result, it becomes suitable for logos, illustrations and other graphics that you have to resize while maintaining the quality. However, this type of file can be a mystery for those who are unaware of vector graphics. Let’s go through the article to learn about the EPS file.
What is an EPS File?
EPS file indicates a vector file format which is greatly used for professional and top-quality image printing. In order to generate detailed pictures, image setters and PostScript printers use it in large posters, billboard advertising, and attention-grabbing marketing collateral.
A Brief History of Encapsulated Postscript Files:
In the early days, graphics were mainly produced in a program known as Adobe Illustrator. The file format this program used is called AI. In the late 1980s, Adobe invented the Encapsulated Postscript format to be a standard used to exchange pictures across various platforms. Many apps have already adopted this format. However, there are a few image formats, like .JPEG and .PNG, which overshadow it.
This format was never used widely as Adobe wanted. However, graphics professionals still prefer to use the format to save their artwork, like icons and drawings. You can see graphic designers using professional vector image editors to save artwork for large print tasks like banners, posters, etc.
AI files might be a bit large. Besides, these did not always support other programs. That’s why Adobe came up with this lightweight alternative. In this case, it is important to know that Encapsulated Postscript files are based on AI file format. But these are compressed to consume less space.
What Are EPS Files Used For?
These have a lot of uses for designing and printing graphics.
- Legacy Format:
PDFs and other modern file formats have overtaken them. However, these files are still capable of working as a legacy format and support all software and systems.
- Printing:
Several professional printers use these formats to accomplish their large-scale jobs. Due to the backward compatibility feature, it becomes ideal to use for different printers, even those which can outdate PDF or other modern formats. Encapsulated Postscript data is easier to render in detail in computer-controlled engraving machines.
- Billboards:
In vector files, every image data that remains stored indicates that Encapsulated Postscript files are able to retain resolution regardless of scale. Thus, these become suitable for expanded images like billboards.
How to Open an EPS File:
We have given here the steps you need to follow to open an Encapsulated Postscript file using a third-party tool:
- Your first task is to find the file you want on your PC hard drive.
- Then, you need to tap on it. Now, your job is to drag this into the above field
- Next, you will see this opening automatically. The tool will convert the file in the background.
- After that, you need to open the file in a new window by tapping on the button.
- Finally, you are capable of downloading the file. In order to convert it into other formats, you can use both free and paid tools according to your demands.
How to Create and Edit EPS File System:
Bitmap info and vector data make an Encapsulated Postscript image. If you use appropriate software, you can only edit the vector information. These are the steps you need to follow to create a file:
- Your first task is to navigate to File after completing the image’s design in illustrator or a similar programme.
- Then, you need to press Export.
- Now, your job is to choose Export as EPS.
- You need to specify the location where you are willing to save the document.
- Then, you need to select the pages you are willing to export when prompted.
- Next, you have to set some extra options.
- You have to make sure that your graphics are within the page trim area or the border image.
- Finally, your job is to press Export.
Let’s learn how to edit this using specialized software.
How to Edit EPS File System:
Do you want to edit them? Then, you will definitely require a program which is compatible with vector graphics.
You first have to open this in the specific program you are using. Then, a screen that is full of lines and curves will appear. It is the Vector graphics that can make up the file. You are capable of editing this graphic as you wish. For instance, you can add or remove curves and lines as required.
How to Convert:
Whether you are willing to convert this to another format, you need to use any specific program. First, you have to head toward File. Then, your task is to navigate to Export. After that, you can select the format to which you are willing to convert your file.
In order to convert this file, you can use online converters. First, you have to upload the file you wish to convert. Then, your task is to select the format to which you are willing to convert. After doing these, you can download them to your PC or computer. Converting them is possible to different image formats like PNG, BMP, GIF, and TIFF.
Advantages:
- This format helps to scale images. It retains image data which ensures that the resolution is high when it is expanded to larger proportions.
- While this format is perfect for printing, it is ideal to use for logo creation and large-scale designs.
- Encapsulated Postscript image data can get advantages from a lossless form of compression. Thus, it can make sure that the image quality is high while getting downsized.
- It supports most OSs and vector-editing software.
- In modern times, the professional printers are able to handle the files easily. As a result, it becomes a universal option for larger print tasks.
Disadvantages:
- These formats contain mathematical data that helps to determine the look of the image in a thumbnail preview. You may need a lot of time to set up the image settings before you create this file. As it is time-consuming, it may be inconvenient for fast-paced working environments.
- After saving a file, you are unable to edit this. In order to change any mistakes and edit, you need to go back to the original design file.
- You have to use specialized software to open it. An app is essential to view and edit Encapsulated Postscript images.
What is The Difference Between an EPS and an SVG File?
Although both of them are vector graphics formats, a few key aspects are there that differentiate these two.
An SVG file refers to an XML-based format which provides you more control over the graphic elements within the file. You can see the use of these ones usually on web pages. In addition, major web browsers support this format.
An Encapsulated Postscript file can describe graphic elements using PostScript. As a result, these files become less portable than the previous one. You can see the use of Encapsulated Postscript files in graphic design and desktop publishing. The reason is that these are able to contain high-resolution images and fonts. However, you should know that generally web browsers don’t support this format.
What is the Difference Between an EPS and a PDF File?
EPS is used for logos and illustrations and can scale images to any size and you do not have to worry about losing quality. You need to use some specific software to open these files.
PDF files come with a lot of versatility. You can open these files in most software. Besides, due to the smaller size of them, it is possible to send them very easily. Remember that you can’t edit them like you do with Encapsulated Postscript files. Also, you can not scale them while maintaining the quality. The most effective format you need to choose relies on your particular requirements.
Encapsulated Postscript File Still Not Opening?
If you are unable to open or view files with this extension, the first thing you need to do is to check your computer to confirm if there are any issues. You need to check first if the system is equipped with the requisite software that allows you to open and view these files. You should try to update your system to the most recent version to fix the problem.
You may need to scan your system for malware when you can’t fix the problem by upgrading the system. It may happen that viruses and Trojans are hindering the system from operating normally and creating issues while opening these files. So, try to use an updated and reliable antivirus for securing the safety of your system.
If you can’t fix the issue even after removing the malware, then you might be viewing a corrupted EPS file. Check if you can open the files on another PC. If you cannot open them, you should try to have a fresh copy of the files. But if you can open this on other devices, then the issue is within your computer.
The Bottom Line:
In this article, we have discussed what is EPS File and other details about it, for instance, the advantages and disadvantages of it. Moreover, we have elaborated the difference between an EPS and a PDF file and the difference between an EPS and an SVG file so that you can decide for which kind of format you need to go.
