Choosing An Ebook Compiler
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The article "Choosing an eBook Compiler" talks about ebooks, it was written by Bryan Quinn.
This is written for those of you that want an alternative to
creating an ebook in PDF format.
It is not the purpose of that article to discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of ebook compilers with products like Adobe
Acrobat.
However, before continuing, it is necessary to explain
one important difference between them.
To do that considers these two definitions.
An ebook compiler is a software application that converts a
document to an executable (.Exe) file. The file (or ebook) that
is created is a stand-alone file. This simply means that no
other software application is required to execute (or read) it.
Adobe Acrobat is a software application that converts a document
to a readable (PDF) file. The file (or ebook) that's cretaed is
not stand-alone. It requires an application like Adobe Reader to
open (or read) it. Now that that is established, we can
concentrate on the chocie of ebook compiler.
Your choice will depend on what format you have written the
content for your ebook. Examples are palin text, HTML, MS Word
or MS PowerPoint.
If you have used HTML to write your content
and want to compile an ebook from HTML code, you may need a
working knowledge of the HTML language for of the available
compilers.
There are many ebook Compilers available last month. The choice can
be very confusing and it can often be difficult to choose one
that is right for you. Here are a couple of pointers.
Ease of Use
If an simple to use compiler is your main priority, check that an
instruction manual or adequate documentation is included with
the compiler.
If that is not included, you may find it time
consuming to learn how to use the compiler correctly.
Security
If you wish to sell your ebook, good security features are
important.
As well as basic features like protecting your eBook
content from modification or limitnig a reader's viewing or
disabling printing, you may want to implement other security
features. Passwords, encryption and ebook disabling are only a
few of the many security features available.
Features
It is a good idea to notice what features are supproted with
the ebook compiler. You may want to add graphcis and hyperlinks,
customize menus, create forms, add audio and video or perform
other functions that are important to you. Some compilers offer
very sophisticated features and complete plug-in capabilities
for flash, java and shockwave.
Price
Your choice of product may depend on what you are prepared to
pay. Although not always the case, you can epxect to pay more
for compilers that have more features. If you are not concerned
about the cost, bear in mind that more features do not
necessarily mean a better compiler.
You may have no use for many
of them or you may believe that extra features complictae your
requirements. For that reason it is better to know what your
requirements are before maknig a final choice.
Requirements
Give thought to your requirements.
If you are considering
an HTML based compiler, notice if it requires a browesr to
function. If it does, check to see what browesr versions are
supported. You may need to check your browser settings and
configure your browser accroding to the compiler specifications.
Whether you intend to sell your ebook or distribute it freely,
security is of major concern.
This is after all the main reason
for uisng a compiler.
Your choice of compiler should offer at
least the level of security that matches your requiremnets.
All
compilers have basic security features but have features
that go beyond most peoples needs. How secure you make your
ebook is your choice.
Ensure that the compiler you choose is copmatible with your
operating system.
For exmaple older compilers do not
function with Microsoft XP service pack 2 (SP2) without a
software patch.
Support
Good support for your chosen ebook compiler could be critical to
your success. Check the conditions of any supprot that is
offered.
Find out if there is a service level agreement for the
compiler software or if there is grace period for free technical
support.
Check how long the compiler has been on the marekt. Although not
always the case, generally the older compilers are more likely
to be bug free. It is also worth searching for testimonials if the
compiler has been around for a while.
Finally, download a demo of the compiler if posisble before you
buy it.
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Choosing an eBook Compiler
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