Converting Files
File conversations from one format to another are easier when starting from a position of using the most popular applications.
Word Processing
An example of this would be in word processing. An application such as Microsoft Word 97 will be an easier starting point because it is used by the majority of computer users and has file filters to most other major word processing applications.
- Word97 could be used as the only tool to Open and auto convert a word processing file made by another application. E.g: File Open, <Files of Type>:
Recover Text from Any File, Rich Text Format (RTF), Lotus 123, WordPerfect5, Works3, Works4, Word6/95 for Mac ..etc…etc
- Word97 could be used as an intermediate application to Open and convert a file then use Save As to another format e.g.:
Open a file in one of the formats shown above, the File Save As to save it to another format: e.g:
Text, DOS Text, Rich Text Format(RTF), WordPerfect ….. etc …etc
Notes:
If you do not see the different file types in the Open or Save As 'Files of Type' drop down window then you must re-install Word97 using the Add/Remove options and enabling File Converters.
Most word processing applications will recognise Text (TXT) and Rich Text Formats (RTF) so that these can be used for opening or saving files., but note that is certain instances formatting may not be retained.
If you and the people you send files to have Adobe Acrobat, then you could use this format. Do not however if the recipient has not got Acrobat or at least the Acrobat Reader, then the files in pdf format are useless to them.
Image Formats
Similarly converting image formats is always easier using the most popular image manipulation programs e.g. Micosoft Photo Editor, PaintShop Pro, Corel Draw …etc
Again you can Open in one format e.g: jpeg
or bmp
Then Save As another format e.g: gif
or pcx
