PROBLEM
Vector data is exported to EPS, PDF, and AI as raster in ArcMap
Description
When exporting to EPS, PDF, or AI (Illustrator), sometimes the vector data gets exported as raster strips or bands.
Cause
There are certain types of symbols that are rendered as raster in output. These are Picture Fill Symbols, Picture Marker Symbols, and the transparent elements.
When these layers are rendered, they flatten and rasterize other layers beneath them in ArcMap's Table of Contents (TOC).
Solution or Workaround
Perform the following, either singly or in combination:ArcGIS 9.1 and earlier
· Remove transparency. Transparency can be re-applied to the desired elements in an external editing application such as Adobe Illustrator 9 or 10.
· Replace Picture Marker symbols with font-based vector marker symbols.
· Replace Picture Fill symbols with simpler, vector fills.
ArcGIS 9.2 and later
· Use the 'Picture Symbol' option set to 'Vectorize Layers with Bitmap Markers/Fills'. This vectorizes the picture marker or fill symbol, and prevents rasterization.
Note:
Some bitmap fills and markers drastically change appearance when vectorized using this method.
![[O-Image] AI with vectorization](https://webapps-cdn.esri.com/CDN/support-site/technical-articles-images/000004216/00N39000003LL2C-0EM39000000wcbT.png)
· Remove transparency. Transparency can be re-applied to the desired elements in an external editing application such as Adobe Illustrator 9 or 10.
Article ID: 000004216
- ArcMap
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