Riovra

Hi there,

so you want to create PDF’s on the fly, convert a web page into a PDF for reports on your website. I’ve been using ABCpdf on our server as a demo to test the functionality. I have to recommend this to anyone looking to add this type of functionality to your web projects.

It uses a simple method for programmatically creating dynamic pdfs. I’ve been using the .net version with some classic asp to generate some pdfs. I’ve been able to mix in some EPS files which I’ve created in illlustrator and merge them with exisiting PDFs and build up some funky pdf’s based on user input. e.g. Adding your name to an invite created with your choice of colour background and image, saving it as a PDF while also outputting a PNG preview to screen. 

Its Powerful, yet highly efficient. I’ve put it through its paces and have found it has handled anything I’ve thrown at it. The documentation is very clear and easy to follow, and it works great at handling text. Merging pdfs into multiple pages or placing multiple pdfs into one page. Very flexible. I can see many applications for ABCpdf from simple receipts, to custom variable pre-filled form that you download/print off to more graphic rich applications. I especially like the ability to control it down to a very fine level including document colour modes. 

I’ve found it a great compliment to some other server based image manipulation tools we use. Check out their live demo here.

http://www.abcpdfeditor.com/

I had previously investigated a lot of expensive solutions for online PDF manipulation and this stands out by far as a cost effective, yet powerful solution for web PDF related projects.

For more information on ABCpdf , see 

http://www.websupergoo.com/abcpdf-1.htm

Enjoy

Dara