Software Review
By Mike Tarrani

Acrobat 5.0
from Adobe Software
ASIN: B00005ATST
Item model number: 22001438

I've been using this program since version 3.0 and it's so thoroughly integrated into my daily tools that I take it for granted. Version 5.0 was a bit of a challenge to get used to because the user interface dramatically changed from earlier versions. It took me months to discover that all of the features in the earlier versions were in fact still in the application, but were hidden by poor documentation and a less-than-intuitive user interface (compared to earlier versions).

Despite the early issues, I cannot live without this application. One of the features I love most is the security that can be set on a document, which can prevent readers from changing, highlighting and copying content to a clipboard, and printing - or any combination. This allows me to share documents without worrying about my content being 'lifted' and used by others without my permission. More importantly, the password protection is solid.

The feature that transforms PDF files into other formats, such as RTF and HTML, does not do a spectacular job, but I was able to use an older plug-in called Iceni Gemini I had purchased for use with Acrobat 4 to overcome those limitations. While the format transformation has some limitations, the forms feature is superb and represents a reason to upgrade to version 5 (or get Acrobat if you're not using an earlier version).

I rate it at 4 stars because of the poor documentation and some of the issues cited above. However, if you work with documents, especially web-based documents, and need to share them across all platforms Acrobat is essential. If you want sophisticated forms handling, then you have yet another reason to invest in this useful tool.

Used with the permission of Mike Tarrani, a technical consultant who can be reached via his website.