Fix missing links in PDF files

One of the most common errors in print data creation: missing links

One of the most common mistakes when creating print data is missing links. What are links? What problems can they cause when printing, and how do you fix the problem? We explain it to you!

What are links?

Links are always external file elements, such as a logo in .EPS or .AI format, which you simply drag or place into the actual print file during creation. For example, you have created the design of a business card, and the company logo is still missing. You simply drag this company logo from your hard disk into Adobe Illustrator and place it. The logo appears in your actual print file, which you then upload to us in the customer area - but it is only "linked" and no longer included in the actual PDF file. Unfortunately, this error has not been fixed by Adobe to date.

What problems may appear in print?

If you order a print product that has to be placed once again on a print sheet by the prepress department, it can happen in the worst case that the linked file that was only dragged in, in our example a logo, is not printed as well. Recognizing this is not part of a data check and, if the prepress employee is not paying very close attention, can lead to faulty printing without any warranty .

How to fix missing links?

Very simple. To ensure that the logo file is actually in your project file, proceed as follows:

1. Open the logo file with Adobe Illustrator via File -> Open
2. The logo file appears in its own tab / window
3. Select the entire logo file, copy it, and paste it into your project file
   (keyboard shortcut CTRL+C for copying, and CTRL+V for pasting into your project file)
4. When you are done with the entire creation of the project file, first save it in AI format under File -> Save As -> e.g. Business Card.ai
5. A window with various settings will open. Be sure to check the"Include linked files" box under the "Options" tab.
6. Your logo.eps file has now been included and saved in your project file
7. Now you can save your print PDF under File -> Save copy as ... Save your print PDF. In the export window select the PDF preset"High quality print".

Now your PDF and Adobe Illustrator project file contains all the externally created elements.