[OS X TeX] Two Column Float

[Richard J Benish]

Using LaTex2e and TexShop v2.10 beta 8, I'm having trouble 
positioning a wide graphic across a 2-column article page. By 
default, the "starred" {figure*} command puts the graphic in the 
center (both vertical and horizontal) of the page and excludes other 
text.

By adjusting the vspace I can raise the graphic so that text then 
fills the middle and bottom of the page. But, depending on the vspace 
values, one of three unacceptable things happens:

1) Text columns appear but the graphic extends too high and 
obliterates the header;

2) The graphic is placed at a good height, but then the two columns 
of text overlap an inch or so on top of the graphic; or

3) The graphic is placed at a good height but the two columns of text 
again disappear from the page.

Any ideas on how to control this situation?

Thanks.

------------------------- Helpful Info -------------------------
Mac-TeX Website: http://www.esm.psu.edu/mac-tex/
TeX FAQ: http://www.tex.ac.uk/faq
List Archive: http://tug.org/pipermail/macostex-archives/
List Reminders & Etiquette: http://www.esm.psu.edu/mac-tex/list/