Stower -

if only I could get a printer to give me straight answers to straight questions ...

The problem is understood, and we probably all know that sometimes when two people try to communicate to solve a problem they may both think they're being quite rational but the communication just isn't there. And it's not necessary that either of them fails to understand the problem - only that they have "different understandings of it" and can't find a common language for the exchange.

A difficulty in communicating the requirements of the job is just as critical to success as how big a machine will be used or where the ink splats go. Finding a printer who can speak to you in terms that make your part of the task something you can do is probably necessary, unless you are willing - and have the time - to learn to speak the language your present printer is using. That's likely not something you can do in short order if the printer hasn't already been willing to help you with it.

John