What is PDF?
PDF is an abbreviation for Portable Document Format, which is an electronic document file format developed by Adobe in the United States. PDF allows you to exchange information between computers and electronic devices while preserving the layout of text, images, figures, tables, etc. PDF files have the extension “.pdf”.
To create documents in PDF format, use PDF creation software such as “Adobe Acrobat” sold by Adobe. In addition, the printing functions of various applications often include a PDF creation function as standard.
Rendering is required to display PDF files, so software called a PDF reader is used to view them. Adobe distributes “Adobe Reader” free of charge as a PDF reader, but it is also possible to view PDF files with other PDF readers. In addition, with the latest Windows and Mac computers, you can now view PDFs from a web browser such as Firefox or Chrome as a standard feature on your PC, without having to install a special PDF reader.
Features of PDF
A feature of PDF is that in addition to text and images, font and layout information is embedded within the file, so the document can be displayed regardless of the computer model or OS. In addition, PDF format does not change its layout when the document is enlarged, reduced, or printed, so it is a suitable format for sharing information with other companies via e-mail etc.
PDF is also widely used as a distribution format for electronic documents, and since it was standardized internationally as ISO32000 in July 2008, there is no need to worry about compatibility with each application. In other words, the recipient of the PDF can view the PDF file simply by preparing a PDF reader.
Additionally, PDF allows you to set security settings for each file. For example, you can set a password for the file itself to limit who can view it, or you can prohibit editing the PDF file itself. Furthermore, if you add an electronic signature to the PDF, it is possible to detect tampering with the PDF.
Reference article
