Files & prepress
What is Vector vs Raster?
Vector artwork is built from mathematical paths that scale to any size with no quality loss; raster artwork is a grid of pixels that degrades as it's enlarged — and sign work needs vector wherever cutting or big enlargement is involved.
Logos, lettering and anything a plotter will cut must be vector (AI, EPS, SVG, or a PDF that truly contains paths). Photos are inherently raster and are fine printed at adequate resolution — the trouble is raster logos: a screenshot of a logo can be printed small, but it can't be cut and it falls apart at banner scale.
The classic tell: a customer sends 'the vector file' that's a JPEG placed inside a PDF. The container doesn't make it vector. When in doubt, zoom to 1000% — paths stay crisp, pixels stair-step.
Related terms
Software that speaks the trade
PrinterFlo runs print & sign shops on one board — quotes that price by size and material, proofs approved from one link, and a production checklist the quote writes for you.