Vector data – HIKITEC – USB-Sticks, Powerbanks, Videocards und USB-Produkte

Vector graphics – What does it mean?

For the optimal realization of your logo files as print or engraving we need your logo template as vectorized graphic template. Vector graphics are based on lines and geometric shapes rather than pixels (image points). Vector data has the great advantage that the data can be scaled or adjusted to any size without transmission losses. For example, they can be traced directly by a laser when engraving.

However, many images or graphics are based on pixels or bitmaps. These templates can usually only be converted to print with a loss of quality and are therefore unsuitable as print templates. You can see this when you enlarge these templates. For example, outlines and lines become blurred. This also applies to pdf files created from pixel files.

Below are some helpful tips and background information for converting existing JPEG or TIF files to vector graphics:

Is my file a vector graphic?

The easiest way to recognize this is by the file extension. Typical file formats are EPS, AI, and also the older formats SVG and WMF.

Is there a suitable source file?

Graphic designers already create many logos as vector graphics. Thus, in many cases, a vector source file is already available, which you can then ideally transfer to the print template.

Can JPEG, TIF and Co. be converted into vector graphics?

File formats like JPG, GIF, PNG or TIF cannot contain vectors. These must first be converted to a vector file.

How do you get a vector file when only pixel data is available?

There are basically three options:

Vectorization with the help of an online tool – this is the simplest variant

Attention: You can use online vectorization tools only for laser engraving and one-color screen and pad printing. Please remember to specify the color numbers in the layout program.

In our tests the free service “Vectorization.org” has achieved relatively good results

Manual tracing with offline programs

If you are not satisfied with the result of the online vectorization tool, you can also trace pixel graphics using vector programs such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.

Hire a special vector agency

Alternatively, it may make sense to hire a professional agency to do the vectorization. This is especially true for two- or multi-color graphics, or for frequently used graphics such as logos.

Can all pixel files be easily converted to vector graphics?

Below you will find some examples of which pixel graphics are not suitable or only suitable to a limited extent for vectorization. If available, you will find the corresponding solution suggestions under the respective images.

Pixel graphic

Vectorized pixel graphic

The lines are too thin and partially break away during vectorization. Try a higher pixel graphic resolution or trace the image with a vector-based program (for example, Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape).

Example 2

Pixel graphic

Vectorized pixel graphic

The pixel graphic is too low-resolution. The vectors are therefore displayed out of focus. Use a high-resolution pixel graphic or create a vector-based graphic in an appropriate program (for example, Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape).

Example 3

Pixel graphic

Vectorized pixel graphic

The contrast is too low, the bright parts of the image are not recognized. Darken the light areas of the image in programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, or Inkscape and try again.

Offline tools and agencies

If you are not satisfied with the result of the online vectorizer, you can also trace pixel graphics using vector programs such as Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.

Alternatively, it may make sense to hire a professional agency to do the vectorization. This is especially worthwhile for two-color or frequently used graphics such as logos.

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