What Free Software Can Access Files Adobe Acrobat Can't?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the limitations of Adobe Acrobat in accessing certain file types and seeks recommendations for free software alternatives that can open these files. The scope includes user experiences with file compatibility and suggestions for software tools.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with Adobe Acrobat's inability to open files other than PDFs, mentioning error messages encountered.
  • Another participant inquires about the specific types of files that cannot be opened, seeking clarification.
  • A suggestion is made that if the files are in Postscript format (.ps), Adobe Acrobat will not be able to read them, and recommends using GSView along with Ghostscript as a solution for viewing these files.
  • The same participant notes that Ghostscript can translate Postscript files and that GSView provides a user-friendly interface for Windows users.
  • A later reply thanks the participant for the information provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the types of files that cannot be opened, as the initial poster does not specify beyond PDFs. There are multiple suggestions for software, but no definitive agreement on a single solution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed information on the specific file types beyond PDFs and Postscript, and there may be other file formats that are not addressed. The effectiveness of the suggested software tools may depend on the user's operating system and specific needs.

Who May Find This Useful

Users experiencing file compatibility issues with Adobe Acrobat, particularly those looking for free software alternatives for viewing various file formats.

wolram
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hi.

i have adobe acrobat instaled but there are a lot of thing
i can not view, is there any free software i can download
that can allow me to accsess theese files?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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what type of files can't you open?
 
the only files i can open are PDF nothing else will, i always
get a message "your computer is not able to open this file"
or words to the same effect.
thanks for any help.
 
If some of these files that you're referring to are in Postscript format (i.e. have a .ps extension) then, yes Acrobat will not read them.

But, if you are referring to .ps files then you can use GSView along with Ghostscript to view these files.

They programs can be found here:
http://www.cs.wisc.edu/~ghost/

Ghostscript translates the postscript file and allows you to view them using the DOS commandline. However, this can be tedious in Windows (assuming you're using windows). GSView is a GUI that runs on top of Ghostscript allowing you to view/print just like any other windows app.

If you're not referring to .ps files then the above free programs are still good to have in your arsenal of application tools.

Cheers.
 
many thanks REDROGUE.
 

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