5c. PDF Converters – PDF Online

The What

PDF (Portable Document Format) is a file format developed by Adobe Systems in the early 1990’s that preserves the look and feel of documents so that they print or appear the way they were originally intended.  Most computers come with Adobe Reader, software that allows you to view PDF files, but what if you need to create a PDF? Adobe offers fee based software or a subscription service for PDF creation, but other free alternatives like PDF Online exist.

The Why

If you have ever tried to open a file from a friend or co-worker, only to find you did not have the appropriate software on your computer, you may see the value of using PDF files. The PDF format ensures that fonts, graphics, hyperlinks, and information appear as you intended. Since PDF files can be opened and viewed on virtually any computer with system, the PDF format is a smart alternative for important documents sent via email or included on websites.

PDF Online is a free PDF conversion tool that allows you to convert word documents and other supported file types to a PDF that is delivered right to your email inbox. Have a PDF file that you would like to be able to edit? Convert the file to Microsoft Word, make your changes, and convert the document back into a PDF. PDF Online also allows you to create PDF’s by emailing documents via an iPhone.

The How

Discovery Exercises

  • Open your browser and navigate to http://www.pdfonline.com/convert-pdf/
  • Use the Browse button on the site to locate the document on your computer you would like to convert to PDF (2 MB limit per upload)
  • Send the file to your email. (Allow approximately 15 minutes for the PDF file to arrive in your email inbox. If you only accept email from senders in your white-list, make sure that you add "pdfonline@bcltechnologies.com" to your white-list.)
  • Locate the file in your email, save it to your computer or open for viewing.

The Job Aid Using PDF Online (PDF – need Adobe Reader?) will give you step by step instructions to help you complete the discovery exercise.

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5b. Online Calendars – Google Calendar | Next up: 5d. Screen Capture – Jing

About the Author

Christine Kreger

Christine Kreger

Christine Kreger is the Technology and Digital Initiatives Consultant for the Colorado State Library and Colorado Plinkit Coordinator. Christine has over 20 years of public library experience including reference, AskColorado, technology training, and website development. She received her MLS from Emporia State University in 2003. http://www.linkedin.com/in/ckreger