General Pre-Plot Checklist: Rules of Thumb and Advice from Experienced Users
1. Keep file sizes as small as possible:

The smaller your file sizes are the faster it will print. Sizes should remain under 100MB. If you are using illustrator or indesign with linked images, count up the file sizes of all the linked images.

2. Plot Images at 72 DPI only: You are wasting your time if you plot at higher resolutions!

If you are plotting, keep the resolution of all of your images at 100 DPI. You will not notice any difference between 100 DPI and 300 DPI on the plotters. However your files will plot very quickly if you leave it at 100 DPI.

3. Leave Plotter at Default Settings:
Try to leave the default plotter settings alone. If you adjust these settings, you should thoroughly know what you are doing, and understand the consequences of changing them.
4. Do not trust the Windows Print Spooler:
Do not trust the Windows Print Spooler window, it is often not accurate and is misleading. If it says "error printing", chances are there is not an error, give the printer time to print the job, do not hit "Cancel" on the plotter, give it a chance to finish the job. Depending on the spooling size, it could take a while.
5. Plot in RGB color, unless otherwise noted:

All color documents sent to the color plotters, color Inkjets, and color laser printers need to be in RGB color mode. This will give you better color matching than plotting in CMYK color.

Check the document's color settings in the application before printing or plotting the document.

6. Perform test plots before your deadlines:
If this is the first time you are using this application do a test print weeks in advance, this way you know you can plot correctly, and you thoroughly understand all of the settings. You will thank yourself.
7. Give yourself enough time to plot before your review:

Give yourself plenty of time for plotting, chances are everyone else will wait until the last minute to plot, do not make that mistake yourself. Give yourself at a minimum 24 hours to plot before it is due.

8. Seek help when needed:

If you have any questions, please ask as DM Staff member, or a Floor Monitor, they are there to answer your questions.