Help with PDF files

The term PDF stands for Portable Document Format, and has become a common internet file format.

PDFs are commonly used to distribute the electronic version of documents as it is able to look exactly the same. Also PDFs are being used more and more across different computers and browsers.

Opening PDF files

To open a PDF file you have two options:

• Open the PDF with Acrobat Reader (the common option). Download Acrobat Reader from the Adobe website
• Use an online PDF conversion tool. This tool will convert most PDF files into a more accessible format. Convert a PDF file into a more accessible file.

PDF files and browsers

You can configure your web browser to open PDF files in a default Acrobat Reader window or in a browser window. Information on how to configure your browser.

Are PDF files accessible?

PDF file formats are becoming more accessible through technologies like screen readers, navigation through the keyboard, and enhanced screen viewing.

For further information on Adobe Acrobat Reader and accessibility either visit the Adobe website or download the PDF guide in the attachments section of this website.

Alternatives to Adobe Acrobat Reader

Adobe Acrobat Reader is by far the most popular PDF viewer but there are several other viewers available for download that will allow you to view and print PDF documents on a variety of computers and systems. For further information and links to these sites please see related links in the right hand column of this page.

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