Adobe Acrobat versus Adobe Reader: What is the Difference?

What is a PDF?
A PDF stands for Portable Document Format. It is a distribution file or format that a software company called Adobe developed. It allows the transfer of electronic information between various types of computers such as Macintosh and a PC. Adobe Reader is the name of the software developed by Adobe to allow this transfer. PDF files are web accessible, just like HTML (Hyper Text Mark-Up Link), however, the PDF contains images, text and hyperlinks packing all of them in a single file. A PDF is preferable over HTML because it will appear the same in any kind of operating system, whether in a view or print form.

How do you view PDF files using Adobe Reader?
You must download Adobe Reader from www.adobe.com in order to view and print a PDF file. Adobe’s website offers free downloadable Adobe Reader software. After installing the software, you can click on the link of the PDF file; usually it comes as a file or link with a suffix .pdf. The software will then load the file to be viewable on your computer.

Can you create or edit PDF files with Adobe Reader?
Using Adobe Reader alone will not allow you to edit PDF files. It can only let you view or read files and print them. If you would like to edit PDF files, you will need another Adobe product, such as Adobe Acrobat 9 or Adobe X. Adobe Acrobat comes in different updated versions. It does everything that Adobe Reader does, but more. It can create PDF files and can work with other word processing and desktop publishing applications to create PDF files. For example, Adobe Acrobat 9 Pro can actually convert Excel files, PowerPoint and Word documents into PDF. It can combine documents, drawings, spreadsheets and emails using a single compressed portfolio.

Adobe Acrobat can edit PDF files to make simple and extensive updates. With Adobe Acrobat 9, you can also complete web pages, or any portions including interactive media, which you can save, print and mark up, then share with any Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Is Adobe Acrobat free?
No, the program has to be purchased. You may find it on the www.adobe.com, as well as in stores.

Can I print PDF files using Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat?
Yes. It is best to print web PDF files using the print button on the Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat toolbar. Click on the toolbar print icon and it will give you a print preview to which you can choose the number of pages to print and the number of copies to make. Printing from the toolbar will ensure that all pages will print clearly and the PDF file will be properly aligned.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This guest blog post was prepared by Lee Houston, BSN RN.

Grab your free copy of 5 Surefire Ways to Get More Clients.