PDF file extraction

[DigiCorn]

We have a forms department, and they created a PDF form that allows you to attach files within. When we receive an order form, the art is located in a field box where you click on the file name and extract the file. I've included a screenshot. Well, I got one with a .zip and I can't extract it, open it or anything else. Any idea how to pull the .zip file out of a PDF to work it?

[Joe]

Google AI says:

You can't directly extract a zip file from a PDF form field, but you can extract the form data, including any embedded zip files, and then save it to a file, which you can then unzip.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Understanding the Context:
PDF Form Fields:
PDF forms allow users to fill in information, and these fields can contain various data types, including text, numbers, and even attachments (like zip files).
PDF Form Data:
The data entered into these fields is stored as part of the PDF's structure.

2. Extracting Form Data:
Using PDF Form Tools:
Tools like Adobe Acrobat, Foxit PDF Reader, or online PDF editors, allow you to export the form data to various formats, including XML or JSON.
Exporting to File:
Select the "Export" or "Save Form Data" option and choose a suitable format (e.g., XML) and location to save the extracted data.

3. Handling Embedded Zip Files:
Check for Zip Files:
After extracting the form data, examine the file to see if it contains the zip file as an attachment or as part of the data.

Extract and Unzip:
If a zip file is present, you can extract it to a folder and then unzip it using standard methods (e.g., using file explorer or a command-line tool).

Example (Conceptual):
Open PDF: Open the PDF form with the embedded zip file in Adobe Acrobat or a similar tool.

Export Form Data: Select "Form" > "Form Data" > "Export" > "To File".

Save as XML: Choose XML as the export format and save the file.

Open XML File: Open the XML file and look for the zip file data.

Extract and Unzip: Extract the zip file data and unzip it to a folder.

[DigiCorn]

geez. That seems like a lot of work, man.

...or I can just email/call the customer and ask them to send the .zip separately

[Joe]

geez. That seems like a lot of work, man.

...or I can just email/call the customer and ask them to send the .zip separately

a real prepress person would never do that!

[David]

I think that is in the rules handbook, pg 18, section 2


"never call and ask questions, it may cause increased awareness"

[Foozball]

Any idea how to pull the .zip file out of a PDF to work it?

Probably a silly question, but you've tried to do that on BOTH Mac and PC??

[DigiCorn]

As odd as it sounds, we have NO Macs here.

[swampymarsh]

Kick it back to the forms department. :]