Troubleshooting PostScript Errors 1
Introduction When images and publications do not print as expected or do not print at all due to a PostScript error, there can be a variety reasons. For example, the publication may be unnecessarily complex, composed with corrupt data or even contain a poorly constructed font. Here are some suggestions to help minimize the chance of having problems with printing your files. Also included are some techniques used by industry experts to troubleshoot PostScript errors.
Note: To locate the problem element, print out each of the file’s elements individually; or, remove one component at a time until the file prints without errors. Warning: It’s advisable to make a backup copy of files before troubleshooting documents. Steps to Take Once the Error is Known Once the offending element in a file has been established, the steps you take to eliminate or work around the problem depend on the type of error message received.
Error: stackoverflow Explanation: A PostScript object stack contains too many objects. It’s difficult to find the cause of this. Knowing the offending command probably won’t help. Isolate the offending elements in your file and remove them. It could also be a memory problem, data corruption, or a communication error. Error: stackunderflow Explanation: An expected PostScript operator isn’t on the stack. It’s difficult to find the cause of this error.
Offending Command: dict Check: Printer fonts and RIP memory. Try increasing the ACS VM setting a couple of megabytes and restart the ACS.
Sources and Additional Reading Suggestions PostScript Language Reference Manual - Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, Inc., Reading, MA.1990. This 765 page book is commonly sold for about $30.00 in the USA.
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