How to convert PDF files

Even though PDF is meant to be used as an final output format rather than an intermediate file format, it can sometimes be useful to convert PDF files to another file format. The following types of conversions are discussed on this page:

• Convert to InDesign
• Convert to Excel
• Convert to Word or doc
• Convert to an image

Convert PDF to Adobe InDesign

Recosoft has an InDesign plug-in to do this. You can find a discussion on their PDF2ID plug-in this thread on the B4print forums.

Convert PDF to Microsoft Excel

Sorry, I have never had to do this yet.

Convert PDF to MS Word or doc files

Adobe Acrobat 9 has an option to export files to MS Word.

Recosoft also has an application that can do this – the Professional version can also handle PowerPoint and other file formats.

There are a few web-based services available as well.

• NitroPDF software offer such a service. They also have an interesting blog post on the challenges of the conversion process.
• Solid Document also offers a web conversion page.

A interesting summary of available web and offline tools can be found here.

Convert PDF to TIFF, PNG or JPEG

Even though it is not a full blown RIP, Adobe Photoshop can do a wonderful job of converting PDF data to an image. A batch action can be used to convert tons of files automatically. On OS X systems, Automator also has a built in PDF to Jpeg action that uses Photoshop.

If you only need a small image, consider opening the PDF file in a viewer like Adobe Reader and taking a screen shot.

There is an interesting thread on the B4print forums on conversions to JPEG.

Convert PDF to HTML

Sorry, I have never had to do this yet.