Type by numbers; readable type depends on the right mix of scale, proportion, and design

Article Abstract:

Typographic relationships cannot be completely reduced to mathematical relationships, but some mathematical ratios can be useful as rules of thumb. For example, line length should relate to point size in a ratio that is about 2:1. A 24-pica measure is likely to harmonize well with 12-point type. When a measure in picas approaches a type's size, so that the ratio approaches 1:1, a line is too narrow. At 3:1, or even 2.5:1, a line is getting too wide. These ratios will also depend on the face that is being used. For example, a sans serif typeface in a long line will tire the eye, so set the maximum ratio at close to 2:1. Vertical spacing, called leading, also affects readability. To know how much leading to add for a proper balance, divide the measure (in picas) by the size of the type (in points), and round the quotient to the nearest half. Then, using a starting point in which point size and leading are equal, the rounded quotient equals the number of extra points of leading to be added. For 11-point type over a 32-pica measure, divide 32 by 11. Round the quotient, which is 2.9, which yields three. Therefore, add three points to the leading, which adds up to an adjusted total of 14. The rules will vary depending on the typeface. Futura, for example, is tall so it needs more leading.

Methods, Word processing software, Tutorial, Typesetting, Guidelines

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Efficiency experts

Article Abstract:

A variety of image-management software packages are reviewed. Aldridge Co's $199.95 CD Cabin Pro focuses on managing data stored on removable optical discs and can batch-convert files in 40 common formats. Equilibrium's $299 DeBabelizer Toolbox 1.6.5, Handmade Software's Image Alchemy 2.1.4 and Jasc Inc's $249 ImageRobot are powerful general-purpose conversion tools. CE Software's QuicKeys is a superb macro tool and now includes powerful programming capabilities that let users replicate very complex sets of procedures with a single keystroke or mouse click. ImageXpress Inc's $695 ScanPrepPro handles only one image at a time, but controls numerous variables using both a scanner and Photoshop. It performs basic image enhancements but emphasizes successful printing, converting all colors to CIELAB space before working on images and operating from a database of information about the demands of various printing processes.

Software, Product/Service Evaluation, Product information, Graphics/imaging utility, Graphics utilities, Software multiproduct review, Image processing, Image processing software, File format conversion software, File maintenance utilities, CE Software Inc., File maintenance utility, JASC Inc., Equilibrium, David L. Aldridge Company Inc., Handmade Software Inc., ImagExpress Corp., CD Cabin Pro 1.603 (File maintenance utility), deBabelizer 1.6.5 (File format conversion software), Image Alchemy PS 2.1.4a (File format conversion software), ImageRobot (File format conversion software), QuicKeys 3.5.2 (Operating system enhancement), ScanPrepPro 3.4.1 (Graphics/imaging utility)

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Screen tests: some visionary - and practical - advice on choosing large-screen monitors

Article Abstract:

Desktop publishers who do editing, drawing, painting, and page layout, working with display screens for extended periods, will want a high-quality screen, both for reasons involving health and comfort and for productivity. Large-screen monochrome displays are evaluated and compared, with the quality of the screen's image being the main criterion. Monitors for PCs or compatibles and for Macintoshes, together with their specifications, are listed; several are discussed. Monoterm's Viking I, among the PC screens, is singled out for special mention; Radius's machine is judged to be an especially good product for the Macintosh.

Computer fonts, Industrial productivity, Glare (Optics), evaluation, Comparison, Productivity, Hardware Selection, Monitors, Eye Strain, High Resolution, Font Package, Glare, Radius Full Page Display (Monochrome monitor), E-Machines Big Picture (Monitor, monochrome), Micro Display Systems Genius (Monitor, monochrome), Moniterm Viking 1 (Video display module), Xerox Full Page Display (Video display module), Axtel 530 (Monitor, monochrome), Cornerstone Technology Vista 1600 (Monitor, monochrome), DBM Magna-4 Video Subsystem (Video display module), Princeton Graphic Systems LM-300 (Video display module), Micrographic Images Megascreen SE (Video display module), SuperMac Technology SuperView (Graphics accelerator/display board), Supermac Technology Grafix (Video display module), Micrographic Images Megascreen SE-M (Video display module), SuperMac Technology Spectrum (Graphics board), Moniterm Viking 10 (Video display module), Micrographic Images Megascreen Plus (Video display module), Conographic ConoVision 2800 (Monitor, monochrome), Sigma Designs LaserView (Video display module)

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