How to: Printing from Zetasizer to PDF
How can I save paper and print a Zetasizer report as a PDF?
Why print?
The Zetasizer software includes several popular report options. The most frequently used one of these is probably the Intensity PSD (M), which gives a compact overview of the results. It lists the z-average and up to three peaks by intensity with their respective mean size, the area under the peak in % intensity and the standard deviation of the peak. In addition, several relevant sample identifiers and measurement conditions, like the sample name, file name, refractive index of material and dispersant, temperature, mean count rate, cuvette description and measurement duration are included in the header. Because this represents a nice compact summary of the results, it is often convenient to print it in a portable device-independent document format in order to share with a collaborator or colleague.
(Yes, you can also just email the data file and ask the recipient to install the Zetasizer software)
How to print to PDF
Portable document format (PDF) is a specific file format that is in principle independent of operating system, software, and hardware. So if a PDF is printed from a computer operating on Windows or iOS to any printer, the end result should look the same (subject to print quality of the specific printer). This makes this format a simple and convenient way to share results. In order to print to PDF, a PDF printer or PDF writer must be installed first. Once installed, the PDF writer looks and operates just like a printer, only instead of paper it prints to a PDF file.
Which PDF printers are compatible with the Zetasizer?
Below are PDF printers that work with success with the Zetasizer software:
- Adobe™ – early versions were called PDF Printer. The naming then changed to Acrobat Pro. Please note only the Pro version (not reader, not DC, not Xi) includes a PDF printer. [~$180 per year to rent]
- ExpertPDF™ – this software operates like a printer, and in some early versions had the ability to keep printing to the same file [batch-print], appending pages at the end. Expert PDF editor. [~$70 to buy]
- CutePDF™ – this operates like a printer and asks for the name of the output file at the end of the printing process. While not as convenient as some of the other options, it is the most affordable solution. [FREE, no cost]. [Another alternative may be DoPDF™. ]
- Windows™ 10 has a built-in PDF printer, so supports native pdf. Just select “Microsoft™ Print to PDF” as the destination printer.
- PDF24 installs like a printer and appears to be the best solution that can batch-print. It behaves just like a printer and several pages land on its virtual printer interface, that you can then save as one pdf. Just select File-Print Setup – PDF24 PDF as the printer. [Free, no cost]
It is possible to install several PDF printers on a single computer, and you may want to trial versions by different suppliers. As of Zetasizer software version v7.11 there were no compatibility issues known, and thus any PDF writer should work just fine.
So go ahead, share your next Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) Zetasizer results on PDF – collaboration made easy! And remember you can always share the download link to the Zetasizer software for full functionality beyond a simple printout.
Registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners. Mention of any products is not to be construed as an endorsement by Malvern Instruments. The only product mentioned in this blog that we do endorse is the Malvern Zetasizer Nano.
Previously
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