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Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional

Working with PDF Files

A PDF file is a document saved in the Portable Document Format. To read a PDF file, you do not need the original program used to create the file, but you do need Adobe Reader. This software is free and can be downloaded from the Adobe website. This document identifies requirements for accessing PDF files, reading files, and instructions for downloading and installing Adobe Reader.

NOTES:
The instructions may vary slightly depending on your individual computer setup. The Learning and Technology Services Help Desk is available to help if you have problems. They can be reached at 715.836.5711 or at helpdesk@uwec.edu. 
Additional information on working with PDF files can be found on UW-Eau Claire's Adobe Acrobat Reader Assistance page.

return to topRequirements for Accessing PDF Files

Here are the requirements you will need in order to access PDF files. 

return to topDownloading and Installing the Adobe Reader

Downloading Adobe Reader

Adobe Reader is a program that is provided free by Adobe and will allow you to access PDF files. You only need to download and install the program on your computer once.

  1. Go to the Adobe Reader website at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html
    The Adobe Reader Download page appears.

  2. Under Select included software, make any additional selections

  3. Click CONTINUE
    The Adobe Reader with Google Toolbar page appears.

  4. Select a location and click SAVE
    Recommended: Save the file to your Desktop.
    The program will be downloaded to the location you select.

Installing Adobe Reader

After you have downloaded Adobe Reader, you must install it.

  1. Go to the folder you saved the Adobe Reader file in

  2. Double click the program icon

  3. Click NEXT

  4. To confirm the location, click NEXT

  5. At the Thank You dialog box, click OK
    The installation of the program is now complete.

return to topReading PDF Files with the Reader

Depending on your computer setup, you will either be able to read PDF files automatically, or read them by saving them to your computer first.

Reading PDF Files by Saving Them First

  1. Right click the link to the PDF file

  2. From the quick menu, select Save Link As ... or Save Target As ...

  3. In the Save As dialog box, select the location where you want to save the file

  4. Click SAVE
    The file will begin to download.

  5. When the Download Complete dialog box appears, click OPEN
    Adobe Reader will open and the contents of the file can then be seen.
    NOTE: You can access the file again by navigating to the folder you saved it in.

Reading PDF Files Automatically

  1. Click the link to the PDF file
    The file should open in Adobe Reader automatically.

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