INTEGRATIVE SIGNAGE The Difference between Raster and Vector Graphics

THE SHORT ANSWER Vector graphics are line-based images, usually produced in a vector- Raster graphics are pixel-based images, which are produced in a raster based program such as Adobe Illustrator. Because of their simplicity, program like Adobe Photoshop. Each pixel contains paticular informa- vector graphics do not suffer a loss of quality when they are scaled up. tion about color, which also makes the file exponetially bigger. The

No matter how many times they are used, the quality stays the same. raster loses its sharpness when scaled up (called pixellation).

Vector image Raster image

The quality stays consistent when scaled The raster becomes pixellated when scaled

MORE RASTER VS. VECTOR INFORMATION Vector-based Raster-based • Vector lines or “segments” are easily traced by vinyl plotters to • The pixels in a raster image cannot be translated to cut vinyl, unless recreate the desired message. the image is traced AS a vector graphic. • There have been vast improvements with vector-based programs that • Creating or editing an image with dots allows you to provide for rich allow the designer to create complex images that emulate raster detail in an image. Because every dot can be a different color, you can programs. A lot of these effects are raster-based, so a bit of planning allow for any kind of color change. When handled correctly, a raster is required when expecting cut graphics. image can be enlarged with great results. • Because vector elements are mathematically-defined, scaling simply • While converting vector to raster graphics is easily accomplished, requires modification of their mathematical locations. raster conversion to vector is much more di cult (and often not possible).

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