Hacksar

Often times, you have probably had some problem trying to save or send some sort of file, whether it was a Word document, PowerPoint, or something else that your recipient was unable to open. If they did not have the proper program installed on their computer, they would not be able to view the file you tried to send to them. Thankfully, a solution for this problem is to send the file as a Portable Document File, better known as a PDF. However, actually creating these files can be slightly troublesome unless you know what you’re doing.

PDFs were created by Adobe, and Adobe’s Acrobat PDF Reader can be found on almost every computer that has a web browser; many files on the internet are saved as PDFs and therefore many browsers install a PDF reader automatically. You can use this to your advantage by saving your files as PDFs. Keep reading for the breakdown.

Now, making a program that edits existing programs to add new saveable file formats can be quite complex, so the easiest method is to create a program that adds itself to the list of available printers. Take a look at a couple of the better, free, PDF printer programs.

• PrimoPDF: This program can be downloaded from here, and as mentioned, it adds itself as a “Printer”. However, it is a virtual printer and does not actually send any data to your real printer. Instead, when you pick this option, it will ask you where you want to save the file. To use this, install it, and then from any program, use the “Print” command. Then, from the drop down list of Printers, select PrimoPDF, and hit Print. It will then open up a PrimoPDF window and the rest is self-explanatory.
• Bullzip PDF Printer: Another PDF printer is Bullzip PDF Printer, which can be downloaded here. This program works in the exact same manner as PrimoPDF, where once it is installed, you just go to File->Print from any program, choose Bullzip PDF Printer as your printer, and it will do the rest for you.

Both of these programs are excellent, lightweight, and free applications that help you maximize your compatibility. PDFs are optimal for posting documents on the internet, or even for sending / saving files that may need to be opened on a computer that does not have specific software installed.

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