20 Questions

Yes, we can supply the graphics for your custom chart as part of our complete service.
To guide us, we request that you send literature samples or web addresses showing us the "look" you want us to follow.

Yes you can.
We strongly recommend that we design the technical layout or function. When we design the function, we insure the calculator will work properly and be economical to produce.
To assist you with graphics, we can provide an electronic template showing the size, window locations, etc. Most artists say the electronic template is a real time-saver.

Resolution should be set to 300 dpi.
Pictures and graphics pulled from the internet are often low resolution, typically 72 dpi or 96 dpi. Avoid these graphics, as they will appear jagged and blocky when printed.
Also note that you should save all photos in CMYK mode, not RGB mode when possible. Images saved in RGB mode may not print properly. If you are unable to save your image in CYMK mode, please let us know.

Your best resources for this question are your company's legal department and the U.S. Copyright Office. Click here to download a document from the U. S. Copyright Office regarding slide chart copyrighting.

The most commonly asked question is, "How much does a slide chart or data wheel cost?" It is difficult to provide meaningful price estimates since we produce custom items. Price is based on quantity, size, style, materials, colors and complexity. One slide chart can cost 50% or even 100% more than another item.
However, we offer free estimates and samples. Once we know more about your project, we can provide a reliable quote.

Well, since you are here, just click on Free Estimates & Samples. Fill in your information and sent it to us. We'll get back to you promptly.
You can also give us a call at 630-543-6000 and we'll help you determine what information to provide.

We excel at the production of plastic slide charts, data wheels, templates and fan packs.

For more details, click here to download an article about our process.

Yes, black is considered a color.

Not typically. White is the default color of the paperboard and is simply recognized as the absence of any ink.

Our specialized production facility is in Addison, Illinois, about 20 miles west of Chicago and a short distance from O'Hare Airport.
Product design, development and manufacturing are all located in our building.

Some jobs can be produced in several days and some take several weeks.
A "typical" rough time line, depending on the size and complexity of the project, would be:
-Design/layout: 2 to 4 working days
-Artwork: 2 to 4 working days
-Production: 3 to 4 weeks.
In addition, you need to allow time for approvals.
If these estimated times present a problem, please call. We will do whatever we can to meet your needs.

We can almost guarantee a slide chart solution for your unique application. Just send us your information for a free project consultation. We'll review it - at no cost - and get back to you with a recommended solution.

Certain slide and wheel charts have become standards in their industry and are frequently requested by many companies.
We have an extensive line of these popular slide rule style calculators that can be customized and produced at a significant savings. Check out our Industry Classics section.

We have several Slide and Wheel Charts available for imprint in quantities as low as 500 pieces.
4" Plastic Date Calculators
BMI Calcualtor Wheels
BAC-Drink/Drive Calculators
See what else is available. Visit the Specials Section.

A proof model is a complete, hand-made model intended to look as close as possible to the printed calculator.
It is provided so you can "proof" all aspects of the chart making sure that everything is presented according to your requirements before we begin production.

It may seem like a proof model wouldn't be needed in this case, but it really is.
If we have generated the "function" design and you provide the graphic design, we will merge the files together to make sure the information fits properly.
If you have supplied the entire project, we will add the appropriate production guides, then make a proof model to verify position and alignment.
In every case, output devices process digital information using a variety of processing languages, and a model allows for careful inspection and proofing of the project to catch any errors caused by "technology".

The free prototype is a working layout showing how your information would be presented on a slide chart, data wheel or slide rule style calculator.

Gather your information, formulas, copy, logos, etc... and send it to us. We'll consult with you about the project. Next, we'll prepare a prototype (working layout) and send it to you. The prototype will clearly show how a slide chart or data wheel can present the information you provided. A price quote will accompany this working layout.

Each order is custom manufactured. We can print as few as you want, but because of the production costs involved, we recommend a 1000 piece minimum.

No, but many of our customer's do. Visit our Buy One Section to see what is available.