pdfFactory

PDF files are very common nowadays thanks to the fact that they can carry more than just text strings. If viewing them is an easy task thanks to the numerous free viewers out there, creating a Portable Document Format file is a bit of a different story.

One of the most effective methods of making a PDF document is using a virtual printer. This has the advantage of being available from almost any application using the 'Print' (Ctrl+P) command. Such a utility is pdfFactory, a tool that will help you create the needed PDFs in no time.

The software installs quickly and will be available from the 'Print' menu of Windows apps, as well as via the 'Devices and Printers' section from the system's 'Control Panel.' Interestingly enough, it can be used for more than PDF printing since it can also send the loaded pages by email, all you need is a configured client.

Once you give the 'Print' command and select this virtual printer, you'll be able to get acquainted with the interface. It allows you to view the current document up close, its title (which you can change on the spot), as well as other pending jobs.

A very useful set of features is to be found under the 'Settings' menu of pdfFactory. You'll be able to view and edit the document information, choose which fonts to embed or protect the PDF by encrypting it. The security features give you the possibility to prevent text and image copying, adding or changing comments and form fields, as well as restrict access to printing and performing other changes to the document.

Another handy function that can be activated from the same menu is the automatic URL conversion. With the help of this feature, links can be set to appear in various forms, with custom borders, line styles and sizes or custom colors.

You'll also want to take a closer look in the 'General Settings' section which includes various options for auto-saving like limiting the number of saved files and asking for confirmation before creating files larger than 10 MB, for example.

The ease of use, decent set of customizable features and fast processing speed recommend this application, but since it is not free of cost, you should take it for a test drive first to see if fits your bill.