Help with Adobe Reader and PDF files
Information on PDF files; what they are, and how to open them.
The PDF file format is a common internet file format (PDF stands for Portable Document Format). It's used for electronic distribution because it faithfully preserves the look and feel of the original document complete with fonts, colours, images, and layout. It also can be used across many different types of computers and browsers. It is commonly used for government publications, leaflets and forms.
Opening PDF files
You can download a program called Acrobat Reader and install it onto your computer. The program is available free of charge from the Adobe Acrobat site. Because the download is large – typically between 8MB and 16MB – you may find it easier to find a copy of the program on one of the CDs distributed by computer magazines.
Are PDF files accessible?
PDF file standards have improved over the years and have become more accessible through technologies like screen readers, navigation through the keyboard and enhanced screen viewing. The Adobe site provides information on how best to use these features. You may come across earlier versions of PDF files which are not so accessible. Reading PDF Documents with Adobe Reader 6.0: A Guide for People with Disabilities (PDF 952KB) 
How do I search a PDF file?
When you open a PDF file an Acrobat toolbar will appear, featuring a number of tools to help you view and search the document. Running your mouse over the icons, without clicking, will tell you what each of them does. The Search tool will search the document for a word or phrase.
