About Vector Processing and Raster Processing

When you print views and sheets, you can choose vector processing or raster processing.

Use the Print Setup dialog to specify the type of processing for a print job.

Tip: In Revit, use vector processing whenever possible.

Vector processing

Vector images use mathematical formulas to create lines and curves (paths). When you zoom into the image, the lines and curves remain smooth. The image maintains high quality for output.

Vector processing provides the following benefits:

When you select Vector Processing to print a set of sheets and views, Revit does the following:

Raster processing

Raster images consist of individually drawn pixels. When you zoom into the image, you can see its individual pixels.

Raster processing typically produces lower quality output than vector processing. However, some print jobs require raster processing. Revit automatically uses raster processing for a view if any of the following conditions are true:

Raster processing times depend on the dimensions of the view and the amount of graphics. To improve performance when printing from Revit, reduce or eliminate these conditions in the views to be printed.

Because Revit automatically uses raster processing for views that require it, select Vector Processing for most print jobs to realize the benefits of that technology. Select Raster Processing when needed to correct issues with print output, for example, when a page prints blank or some elements are missing from the print-out.

Note: When raster processing will be used a dialog is displayed. The display of this dialog can be suppressed or turned back on in the INI file. See Messages Settings in Revit .ini