Test strips are FREE!! (within reason of course!). Students can print the same test strip for free on three different types of media.
Print Ready: The Imaging Center does not alter your file in any way. All files must come in ready for print. The IC prints actual size.
File Type: high resolution .jpg OR flattened PDF file (combine multiple like-sized files into a single PDF file).
Remember to save your test strip file in the same exact way as your final image (.jpg test strip for a .jpg final print OR a .pdf test strip file for a .pdf final print).
Color Space: The IC works in both an Adobe RGB & U.S. Web Coated CMYK (SWOP) v.2 color space. We do not work in any other color profile and will convert your profile as necessary.
Grayscale: In order to qualify for black & white pricing, you must have your file converted to grayscale.
- Converting a Color File to Grayscale in Photoshop
- Converting a Color File to Grayscale in Illustrator
- Converting a Color File to Grayscale in Acrobat
Find more information about setting up your Test Strip file here including a Video Tutorial
Turnaround Times: Test strips can take up to 1 business day. Once you are satisfied and “approve” your print, you may then submit the final order for the full-sized image. Your print job will be completed in the order it was received.
We try to turnaround test strips as quickly as possible, but be sure to give yourself an extra day to prepare your file if you want to do a test strip.
Turnaround Times do not include weekends or holidays. At this time, there are no “Rush” options available. Please be aware that turnaround times can increase up to 2-3 business days during midterms and finals.
Notifications and Approval Process: You will be notified via your CCS email when your job has been processed, and you will be given an estimated pick up time, price and a link to make a pick-up appointment on Calendly.
If you are happy with your test strip, submit your file for processing. Please submit your file using the appropriate form – Plotter or Inkjet – and select your desired paper. Complaints will only be considered if a test strip was printed and approved by the customer.
Test strips should be no larger than 2” tall by the width of the document and contain areas of the file that offer the best representation of color and contrast. Please put the words test-strip at the end of your file name.
Paper Resource List: Check out our permanent & rotating paper list HERE
Need Extra Help: Schedule a 10-minute Zoom consultation with IC staff by visiting our Calendly.
Trouble Uploading? Please visit our Troubleshooting Guide HERE.
You must log in to view this form. Please login in to the right using your CCS username and password.