About e-book Compilers

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To deliver books to your customers via the web a software program is required that will take your source files (documents) and compile them in an easy to distribute electronic format.

Adobe Acrobat 8.0 Professional

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To deliver e-books to your customers via the web a software program is required that will take your source files (documents) and compile them in an easy to distribute electronic format.

There are a numerous programs on the market ranging from top-of-the-line expensive programs to freeware.

If planning to sell your e-books it is recommended that you should look towards a higher priced, multi-featured product.

The choice of compiler, PDF or HTML format, is a matter of personal preference with many professional publishers choosing the multi-platform compatibility (readability) that is only available in PDF format.

Multi-platform means that it can be used with both Windows and Macintosh computers.

PDF (portable file format) is a good choice is you want to retain the appearance you designed when it is downloaded and printed.

HTML compilers package the pages you have written in HTML then create an .exe file ready for download over the Internet.

To open and start the e-book you double-click on the file and then view it in your web-browser or the compilers internal browser.

You may choose to give your readers a choice and compile your electronic book's in both PDF and HTML formats

Tips for choosing an e-book compiler

There are many e-book compiler software programs in the marketplace, and many new ones being introduced all the time.

So how do you choose the right one for your purpose and financial resources? What should you look for?

Ease of use

The compiler you chose should be easy to understand and use. Some compilers on the market are not very easy to install onto your computer and use. This can be frustrating if not technically inclined.

File Format

Most e-book compilers create executable files for PC'S. If you want to reach Macintosh users you need the PDF (Portable Document File) format e.g. Adobe Acrobat

HTML compilers convert HTML documents into .exe format.

One disadvantage of HTML compilers is the fear of viruses, which are possible in .exe formats but not in PDF files.

Compression

Download times for e-books can be shortened if they can be easily compressed.

If you are going to produce large e-books or manuals with pictures or graphics then look for this feature.

Many people have to pay for bandwidth time so consider the person downloading your book.

Security and Password protection

An important feature to look for is the ability to embed encryption features and add passwords.

If using an HTML compiler look for software that allows you to disable the "view source" in HTML documents and prevent others from accessing your HTML code and using it.

Be aware that problems can occur in HTML compilers if hackers crack your passwords and there may also be compatibility issues between some browsers due to faulty HTML coding.

Another feature you may require is the ability to lock certain pages or the whole e-book with a password. You  then have the choice of giving prospective customers access to a chapter or several pages of your e-book as a giveaway or demo. To see the whole book they then have to buy it and receive a password to unlock the rest of the book.

Other security features you may wish to consider...

- The ability to disallow copying and extraction of files.
- The ability to disallow printing of the document.
- The ability to prevent adding or changing comments and form fields within a document.

Multimedia capacity

Great for interactive children's books, when using a short video or audio clip to illustrate your "how to" information, or when you need to make a point.

If you want to incorporate all the features normally found on a web site select HTML compiler software. This allows you to create e-books with sound files, video, movies, JavaScript, Flash files, shockwave presentations or any pug-in feature that allows an e-book come to life.

Look for demonstration versions to test

If unsure of which compiler to chose, most commercial software programs have demonstration versions available to try out and preview before you buy.

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