How do I Convert PDF to TIFF in Open Source?

The Mac operating system converts PDF to TIFF format with the built-in "Preview" program using the "File > Save As" commands. Open source and freeware programs based on the Microsoft universal printer driver converts PDF documents to image files using any Windows program's "Print" command. The programs add a virtual printer to your list of available printers. PDFCreator and Bullzip, along with several others, offer many conversion options. Although the user interface and options vary, the conversion process is the same.

Instructions

1. Choose the software, such as PDFCreator and Bullzip (see References). Visit the company's website and download the setup files.

2. Click the setup file and install the program. The installation adds a new printer.

3. Open the PDF file in your PDF reader.

4. Click "File > Print." When the printer dialog window opens, switch from your default printer to the new printer.

5. Click "Print" then choose the output options. Many "virtual printers" have resolution, output size, and format choices.

6. Click "Save" and choose the output folder.

Tips & Warnings

• Always download programs from trusted websites.

References

• PDFCreator: The free PDF Creator and Converter
• Bullzip: Free PDF Printer
• Apple: Mac 101 Preview

Resources

• Sourceforge: Virtual Image Printer Driver