Firefox problem: Can't open PDF files

Factual Questions
1

When I click on a link to a PDF file, nothing downloads. A tab with the URL/PDF written on it appears, then nothing happens. I have the latest updates, but I’ve never been able to get Firefox to open PDF files.

Using the latest IE, no problems. A PDF filed downloads and opens instantly.

Is this a setting issue under Tools > Options?

2

In FF 2, check the settings under Tools - Options - Content - File Types - Manage (button)

There should be an entry there for PDF (not necessarily in alphabetical order). Set the action to open it with Adobe Acrobat.

3

In addition, go get the PDF Download extension. It offers options to download, open within the browser, open outside of the browser, etc.

4

Ironically, I can’t open that. A message pops up saying Adobe couldn’t open it because it either wasn’t a supported file type or the file has been damaged.

Tried 3 X.

5

Nope. I don’t see that entry. :smack:

6

Please post version of Firefox (1.5.x or 2.x) and what version of Acrobat. Oh and under what OS?

I had this problem and was able to fix it under 1.5. I’ll look at my notes and see if I can find the fix.

7

Here’s how I’m set up with XP and FF 2.0 (IIRC, it was similar with 1.5).

Click on tools/options. At the bottom of the pane is “File Types”. Click on the “manage” button.

Now look for the PDF entry. Highlight it and click on the “Remove” button.

Once you’ve done that, every time FF will ask you if you want to save the PDF or open it with some program. On that pane, you can point it to Acrobat or some other PDF reader. There should also be a check box on that pane saying “Do this every time” or some such thing. Leave it blank if you want to choose every time.

Acrobat also has a preference related to this. In 7.0, click on edit/preferences, then select “internet”. There’s a check box that says “display pdf in browser”. To display this in stand-alone Acrobat rather than embedded in the browser, uncheck this box. However, I’ve noticed that I still have this box checked, but I never get the PDF displayed embedded in FF.

8

Got it working! Many thanks, fellas! :wink: