How do I create a low-res preview of an EPS file in Word?

[Benjamino5]

I need to insert a lot of Illustrator CS EPS files into Word XP. They print
fine, but appear as blank squares in the Word file when viewed on-screen.
This isn't because I have the "Picture Placeholder" option set--from what I
understand, it's simply a limitation of the EPS support in Word.

But I've heard that there's a way to add a low-res preview to an EPS file so
that you see a representation of the image on-screen. This would be
invaluable for the copyeditors who will be working on my files.

How do I do this? Is there a setting or option in Illustrator CS that I
should use, or is there some other way?

Thanks a lot!
Ben

 

[CyberTaz]

Yes - the setting to include a Preview needs to be made in Illy when you
save the file.

Use File>Save As & select Illustrator EPS(*.EPS) from the Save As Type:
list. In the next dialog select either TIFF (Black & White)[1] or TIFF
(8-bit Color)[2] from the Preview list *and* set the option below the list
to Opaque - Word doesn't handle Transparency very well

[1] This renders a smaller file size & is probably adequate for what you
described
[2] Considerably larger file size, use only if color preview is necessary

Also, if your users are fully updated in Word 2002/2003 you should be okay
with the CS EPS format - try one & see how it comes up in any word doc when
you place it. If it doesn't behave you may have to try again using the Illy
9 EPS format from the Versions list at the top of that same dialog.

BTW - Just to clarify, Word has no problem with Adobe EPS *support*- that's
why you're able to insert & print the files effectively. Word simply can't
read & display them because it doesn't include a PostScript interpreter. It
would cost a great deal more if it did. The same is true of printers - their
PS-compatible siblings always are higher priced. PS is a language owned by
Adobe & they license its use for a fee [make that FEE]