The Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) ™ file format has become a useful tool for sharing information. The CutePDF software has been added to the software matrix of the CCEC SEBldg Computer Labs, allowing you to print to a PDF file instead of paper for any software application with a printing function.

Easy Steps to Creating a PDF through Printing

1. When ready to print, simply launch the application’s print function. This is typically labeled, “Print” and is usually found under the “File” menu.
2. If necessary, make any format adjustments using the application’s print dialog. Options often include page size, margin sizes, background colors, and so on. Remember, the PDF file format is designed to allow display or printing on a wide variety of devices. It is possible to create a PDF file with this method that is destined to be printed on a large-scale plotter.
3. Proceed to print. At this point, you may be prompted to select a printer. If so, choose the “Adobe PDF” or "CutePDF Writer" printer. One of these should be the default printer for most systems in the CCEC SEBldg Computer Labs. When ready, click the Print button to continue.
4. You will next be prompted for a filename and location for the generated PDF file. Be sure to choose a valid location, such as your own removable media or the system’s “Thaw Space.”
5. If you are using the "Adobe PDF" printer, you will next see the “Creating Adobe PDF” dialog. When this is complete, Adobe Acrobat Professional will launch to show you file. You can close Adobe Acrobat to return to your application. With the "CutePDF Writer" printer, you will be returned to your application after the PDF is generated.