How to Collect Files for Output in Illustrator CS5

Load a script to collect your files for output in Adobe Illustrator.

When you create Adobe Illustrator (.AI) files, you have the option of embedding images and content directly into the document, or you can link the pieces to the document, creating a much smaller product. The file with the embedded content can easily exceed 500MB, whereas the linked file might only be 50MB. However, when it comes time to send the file to someone else, or save it to a USB, you have to find all the pieces. Using a script to collect the files for output can save you a lot of time.

Instructions

1. Download the script. It is easily located by searching for "Collect for Output Illustrator script."

2. Install the script by dragging it to the scripts folder, located in Applications > Illustrator CS4 > Presets > en_US > Scripts on a Macintosh computer, or in C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator CSX\Presets\Scripts on a Windows computer.

3. Open the .AI image for which you need to "collect files for output."

4. Click "File" > "Scripts" > "CollectforOutput."

Tips & Warnings

• A separate software, Art Files, handles the collection of files for output, if you want to pay for it. It costs about $50 at time of publication and automates the process, avoiding the hassle of having to install a script.

References

• Collect Files Script: Download
• Interactive Llama: Package Links for Output
• Creative Bits: Illustrator Collect for Output
• JOKOgraphic: Collect Files for Output in Illustrator CS4 & CS5
• Adobe Illustrator CS4: Use a Script
• Adobe Illustrator Scripts: WR-collect v0.4 Script
• Adobe Illustrator Scripts: Scoop_CS2 Script
• Adobe Illustrator Scripts: Scoop_CS Script

Resources

• VectorTuts: 20 Free and Useful Adobe Illustrator Scripts