Need To View "PDF" Files In Windows Application

[Tyecom]

Is there a way to view "PDF" files in a Windows Form, using VB.Net 2005? I know I can launch Adobe Reader from within a form by using:

System.Diagnostics.Process.Start _
("c:\maps\")

However, this only executes Adode Readers' exe file and start the application in a separate window. I want to be able to display PDF files "within" my application.

Your help is greatly appreciated.

 

[JohnH]

If you have Adobe PDF Reader installed you can also add an ActiveX COM control of this to your toolbox, then like other controls add it to a form. The LoadFile method can load a document.

 

[Tyecom]

Hi John,

Can you please explain how to add the ActiveX Control to my toolbox and where can I find it. Thanks in advance

 

[JohnH]

Use the context menu on toolbox and select "choose items", find it in COM page of the toolbox item chooser dialog.

 

[Tyecom]

I now how Adobe ActiveX as a selection on the Toobox menue. When I double click the selection, a PDF Adobe icon is shown on my form. Can someone tell me what to do next? Thanks in advance.

 

[JohnH]

The LoadFile method can load a document.

AxAcroPDF1.LoadFile("file.pdf")

 

[Tyecom]

Hi John,

I'm sorry for being a Air-Head and a Newbie. But do I put this code behind a button or what?

 

[Cavar]

You can add the web browser control to your form and navigate to the PDF that way the latest Acrobat version installed will always be used.

 

[Tyecom]

Thanks Cavar!

 

[Cavar]

Thanks Cavar!

You're welcome.

 

[JohnH]

You can add the web browser control to your form and navigate to the PDF that way the latest Acrobat version installed will always be used.

...if the user has a compatible PDF viewer installed. Well, who hasn't got Adobe installed these days?