Archive for May, 2009
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How to convert documents into PDFs, and how to split existing PDFs….for free!
While the base version of Adobe Acrobat starts at a price $299 USD, you can convert documents that support printing to PDF into PDFs for free using Acronis CutePDF Writer. You can also use CutePDF Writer to split pre-existing PDFs.
First, download and install the free Acronis CutePDF Writer as well as the free open source converter provided.
After installation, you will notice a new entry called CutePDF Writer in the section that allows you to choose a printer when printing a document.
To convert a document to PDF (provided that it supports printing to PDF), simply select CutePDF Writer as your printer and hit print. You will be asked where to save the new PDF file and what you want to name it.
To split a pre-existing PDF file, open it using Adobe Acrobat Reader and print it the same way as above. But this time, specify the page(s) you want to print.
As an economical alternative to the basic version of Adobe Acrobat, Acronis CutePDF Professional is recommended.
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Built-in Obsolescence in Inkjet Cartridges?
This is what an Epson T088320 magenta color inkjet cartridge looks like from the inside. It was split open by “Inkdaddy” in his effort to ascertain how much ink was in the cartridge. It contains around 3ml of ink. But this is not obvious because the transparent plastic cover that you are seeing is actually masked by the product label.
The cartridge contains a network of multiple intricate sub-compartments, instead of a single compartment. Ink comes to the nozzle from two separate compartments! Obviously, Epson does not want you (or the guy at the mall) to experiment with poking needles to refill the cartridge. Nevertheless, there are techniques for the undaunted.
Though not pictured here, the cartridge is also said to contain two chips. And once the ink dries, they supposedly render the cartridge useless.
This built-in obsolescence in inkjet cartridges is becoming a sad trend these days.