Can anyone tell me whether Helvetica is a browser base font? If so, it is not loading in my PS CS 4.
Where can I download it from?
+3
A:
No, Helvetica is not a "base font".
The best definition of "bast font" is probably Microsoft's Core Fonts for the web, and Helvetica's not there.
If you want Helvetica, you either have to get a Mac (it's one of the default fonts on mac OS X), or buy it from Linotype (the company that owns it).
Orion Edwards
2009-05-18 20:57:11
+1
A:
Helvetica is a standard system font on Macs only.
What you can do however is specify Helvetica in a CSS font declaration, but also make sure that you include fallback fonts for Windows users.
e.g.
body {font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;}
Bayard Randel
2009-05-18 20:58:04
It's probably best to put Helvetica before Arial in that example, as often both fonts are installed on a Mac.
Rich Bradshaw
2009-05-18 21:03:53
and don't forget the `sans-serif` at the end of that list.
Paul Fisher
2009-05-18 21:07:59
Verdana is a wide sans-serif, while Arial and Helvetica are narrow. Columns of text and vertical flow will be dramatically different than what you may intend if you design with that font stack. Try this for a reference: http://safalra.com/web-design/typography/web-safe-fonts-myth/
guns
2009-05-18 21:14:47
that's a very helpful reference guns, thank you
Bayard Randel
2009-05-18 21:20:12
The problem is if a windows user has helvetica installed, it will usually render like crap. So don't put it in front of Arial. Just use sans-serif
Wahnfrieden
2010-09-21 00:42:23
+1
A:
If you are on a Windows PC, and don't want to purchase Helvetica, Arial is somewhat similar to Helvetica. (puts on flame retardant suit)
Travis Collins
2009-05-18 21:01:41
Just don't look too hard, and you'll be okay. And don't argue the point with designers. The slanted terminals drive them crazy.
guns
2009-05-18 21:12:19
A:
There is a collection of standard Postscript fonts available from URW++ under the GPL license; I believe this includes a clone of Helvetica, although it might not go by that name.
Mark Ransom
2009-05-18 21:05:46