CS6 Links Window Shows jpeg file name but not tiff or psd file name

Question

So I have a question, I noticed that in CS5 and CS6 that when i place a jpeg file in Illustrator, the file name does appear in the links window, but when i place a tiff or a psd file there is no file name in the links window, this drives me nuts.  Is there a way to see the files name of placed psd and tiffs in the links window?

Answer 1

Here's my thoughts...
1. You are a bit confused and I wonder how you can determine a file is a PSD or a TIF by looking at it?  Not all print drivers can recognize PSD's, but can recognize TIF ( this means almost all output devices can interpret TIF's no problem ).  That said, PSD's can manage layers better than TIF's which add to file size each layer you include in the TIF.
2. Never say never.  This all depends on the file's use.  Layered TIFs can add complexity in which a print driver can or cannot deal with.  As you work on an image, you may want to merge layers for whatever reason(s) and you always have the option to flatten whenever you feel like it.  However, It is also a good idea to dupe the file as you move along.  That means you always have a layered version to fall back on should you need to edit later on.  I also Place transparent PSDs in Illustrator files with no problems.  But, I save as EPS in Illustrator and when I do that, then the file is automatically flattened.  This is perhaps what the internet was talking about.
3.  Yes, see number 2 above.  There's no such thing as automatic flattening of TIFFs.  Again, this all depends on the printer and whether or not it can print while retaining original layers.  Some do, some don't.  Most of the time, I edit in PSD with layers intact.  Then, when I prep the file for printing, I will save a copy as a flattened TIFF so the file streamlines through the RIP and Print process.
4.  Makes no difference.  Use 'em if you've got 'em.
Try to get some good resource material at a library or college bookstore or barnes & noble.  Also, get Adobe's Print Publishing Guide.  This is a good reference guide.
Message was edited by: John Danek