- What is a PDF file?
A Portable Document Format (PDF) file is a self-contained,
cross-platform document. In plain language, it is a file that will
look the same on the screen and in print, regardless of what kind of
computer or printer someone is using and regardless of what software
package was originally used to create it.
Although they contain the complete formatting of the original
document, including fonts and images, PDF files are highly
compressed, allowing complex information to be downloaded
efficiently and quickly.
- How to Download the Software
Virtually anyone - including Windows, DOS, Macintosh, SUN, and UNIX
system users - can view and print a PDF file using the free Acrobat®
Reader.
- The
following address provides all of the options needed to download and
install the software. Be sure to note
that Adobe includes a checkbox below the platform choice that
provides the option to download a version offering accessibility for
the visually impaired.
 http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html
|
- How to View PDF Files
Once the Acrobat® Reader software is properly
installed, you just need to click on a link to a ".pdf"
file and it will be loaded for viewing on your computer. Note that
the file is sent to your computer as a temporary file that will be
deleted when you exit your browser.
- How to Print PDF Files
When printing Acrobat® PDF files from within your browser, do NOT
use the web browser print menu. Instead, use the print
button at the left end of the special Acrobat® toolbar,
which appears immediately above the viewing window.
- How
to Save PDF Files
If you wish to save the PDF document after opening it for viewing,
click on the disk file icon at the left end of the special Acrobat®
toolbar, which appears immediately above the viewing
window. A "Save as"
window opens with a ".pdf" in the file name box. Select a
location to save it and give it a name and press okay.
|