How do I know what version to open with CS'ssss

[prepressguru]

Hey Gang

So we now are supporting 4 versions of Creative suit. CS, 3, 4 ,5 and the much loved 5.5.

We try as much as possible to open the file with the correct version but it is a tedious task to try and open in each version until you get it right. Also I have noticed some operators opening in the wrong version and up saving to that version. A habit I need them to break.

I know this is a disaster waiting to happen. Is there a better way to do this?

p

[DCurry]

There's a plugin called Soxy:

Soxy | Rorohiko Workflow Resources

[Al Ferrari]

If you used preflight software such as Markzware or similar, it would tell you what version created the file and a whole lot more. Google for it.

Al

[CHM]

or just open .ai file in a text editor 1st. There you can see what version the file is made in.

[Hopkins Printing]

What DCurry said. We are using Soxy and it takes the mystery out of of knowing which CS to open.

Best regards,
Jon Morgan
Hopkins Printing

[pmhapp]

+1 for Soxy here as well.

[Bob@MidAmerican]

If your on a Mac try dropping it on Bridge, usually works for me.

[pacart]

May i ask, what is the point of trying to match up the file with the version? All older versions will open in the newer version. So what's the reason?

[lsynadinos]

We also use Bridge to determine what the creation version is. We then create a sub-folder such as CS5, CS5.5...whatever. That way the next operator knows what to do. In some cases, we get files for the same job from different sources and have to manage the job in separate versions—lots of fun there.

The reason for staying true to the document's creation is FONTS—or more specifically the differences in how InDesign versions selects the font family and style (regular, book, etc.).

If an "older" document is opened in a "newer" version you can get a font substitution that is often barely detectible on screen but can cause big problems down the road. The problem lies in font name conflicts which occur in InDesign and cause some fonts that are available to the system to not show up in the font menu. Awesome, I know.

It will appear that you have the correct font and style selected, but it is actually something else. If you want the technical explanation read this:
InDesign Font Conflicts � Typblography

Even though this thread was started in 2008, it still holds true because of all the different versions still in use out there.

One other reason for keeping docs in their original version...many of our clients want final downloads for their asset management systems. They are not happy if we supply them back with something they can't open.

Hope this helps.

[kansasquaker]

Wow, Soxy is sweet! I can't believe I'd never heard of it before!