Disc Studio FAQ

Troubleshooting Questions

Q: Why can't I import a particular TIFF file for use as a background?

TIFF allows programmers to select from a wide array of optional features depending on their requirements. This means that some TIFF files may not be usable for some applications. If possible, use another graphics program to convert the TIFF to another format that can be imported into DiscStudio.

Q: Why can't I copy a graphics image from another application using the Windows Clipboard?

Windows Copy and Paste are not supported in DiscStudio. While using the keyboard shortcut for Paste (Ctrl+V) will work for text, the only way to import graphics is to create a rectangle and import the graphics image saved out from another graphics program as a picture or clipart. Do this by clicking the "Picture/Gradient/Pattern" option under "Color" on the right side menu. The border (or outline) of your rectangle can be set to "clear" to make it disappear.

Q: DiscStudio doesn't seem to work on my Windows 98 computer.

DiscStudio is designed for Windows 2000 or later versions of Windows only. While it may work on some Windows 98 computers, such use is not supported.

Q: DiscStudio occasionally crashes or exhibits odd behavior (objects can't be selected, "ghost" images appear, etc.).

Make sure you have the latest updates for your version of Windows. Some errors of this type have been traced to the use of an outdated version of the "gdiplus.dll" file. Make sure you are using a supported version of Windows.

Q: I can see an object but I can't select it because it's "behind" a larger, transparent object.

Select the "Front" object and go to the "Arrange" menu at the top and select "Move Backwards" or use the Windows Shortcut Key Ctrl+D. (You may have to do this several times.) Then you can select the smaller object. When you're done, move the smaller one behind the larger one again.

Q: The Ellipse Tool only makes circles. How do I make an oval?

By default, the Ellipse Tool constrains the width and height proportions on a 1 to 1 scale, making a circle. To make an ellipse, first draw a circle and then uncheck the "Lock Aspect Ratio" box on the right. From here you can resize the circle to any oval shape you wish.

Q: I imported a clipart image, but it's stuck at the middle of the label and cannot be moved.

Instead of importing the image to the label itself, create a rectangle (or other suitable shape) and import the image using the "Picture/Gradient/Pattern" feature found in the Color properties for the object found on the right menu. You can then move the object (and the clipart) anywhere you want. The border (or outline) of your rectangle can be set to "clear" to make it disappear.

Q: I am trying to select a curved object by dragging a selection rectangle around it, but it won't select.

Just click on the object instead of using the selection rectangle. Alternatively, you will have to make the selection rectangle larger. Some shapes (particularly curves and closed curves) may not select unless the selection rectangle is significantly larger than the object appears to be.

Q: Can I set new defaults for objects?

Unfortunately, this option is not available at this time.

Q: How can I deselect a tool when I'm done with it?

Some tools want to keep on working… Simply Right-Click when you are done. At this point, you can use the Arrow Tool to select, move, or delete objects.

Q: My text object slows down DiscStudio and interferes with manipulating other objects.

That's normal. Text objects require a lot of processor time, and the container boxes may be large. We recommend adding text as the last step of creating your label. Remember that you can always select and manipulate objects by moving the interfering object back (use the Move Selected Object to Back button). Move it to the proper level again once you're done.

Q: How can I delete a background? I added the image when I started my drawing and now I don't want it, but UNDO would cause me to lose all the changes since then.

Delete a background by selecting the Arrow Tool and deselecting any objects, then on the right menu set the Background Color to white.

Q: Why can't I see the fonts that are included with DiscStudio in my Control Panel Fonts?

The fonts included with DiscStudio are not installed in the Windows Fonts folder, but are only available to DiscStudio. You can use the Control Panel, Fonts, Add Font utility to install any of them if you wish. Then they will be available to all applications.

Note: It is not a good idea to install fonts you don't use frequently. This can slow down both booting and operation of Windows, as well as consume additional system resources.

Q: Can I add my own background or clipart images to DiscStudio?

Yes. Normally, backgrounds are JPEG images and clipart uses transparent GIF. DiscStudio will also accept other bitmap image types. This list includes .jpg (or .jpeg), .bmp, .gif, .Exif, some .tif (or .tiff), .wmf, and .png files.

Q: How do I create text on a tray card spine?

Rotating straight text lines will be available in a future release of the software. Currently the best way to create text at different angles for (such as placing in your design in a jewel case tray card spine) is to manipulate a curved text line. Download a sample tray card file with instructions.

Q: How can I just print one disc and reverse the blank label for another label design?

In our Disc Studio label software the template preview under the "select template" button shows where the highlighted areas are what will print and by default it imposes the artwork in all positions. You can just click off the areas you do not want to print in the preview; when it is highlighted yellow it will print, when it is white it will be blank.

Q: The image is not lining up on the print of CD/DVD label sheets, how do I fix this?

Before doing any printing it is important to do a Printer Alignment. This will calibrate the software to the start point of your printer on the surface so the software can interpret the layout positioning for best placement on the die cut sheets. Doing the printer alignment will help so you won't waste any sheets of your label or insert stock because of bad alignment.

Q: Does this software supports direct-to-cd printing?

At this time no we do not support all direct-to-cd printing since most cd printers come with their own software and each template placement can vary. The templates we include are for sheets of labels or packaging inserts.

Q: Can I use disc studio for my duplication or replication order artwork?

We do not recommend using Disc Studio for your Duplication or Replication service order. Please find more information regarding acceptable artwork formats for service orders at our artwork requirements page.

Q: How do I select a different Template?

The "Select Template" button in the top right corner opens a window where you can see the available templates from a dropdown. Then click choose the template by paper product code, preview, or description. (see image shown to your right)