Troubleshooting Adobe Reader
Difficulties Using Adobe Reader for PDFs?
There have been reports of users experiencing difficulties viewing pdf documents in browsers. Older versions of Adobe Reader will sometimes produce an error or display garbled text when trying to access a pdf document that was saved in a newer version. Most often, upgrading to the most recent version of Adobe Reader will repair these issues.
What happens?
You may experience the following problems while trying to view pdf documents within a browser:
- Blank screen
- Browser freezes
- Browser crashes
- Error: File does not begin with ‘%PDF-‘ (shown)
Garbage or gibberish on the screen (shown)
Why does this happen?
Evidently, older versions of Adobe Reader do not have the capability to handle the load, advertising and/or animation functions of newer versions as reliably.
What do I do?
Because there have been some critical security issues with earlier versions (see bulletin) it is a best practice to update your Adobe plugin to the current version.
To install the latest version of Adobe Reader, visit the website and pick the appropriate version.
What happens if I am not able to install anything on my machine?
There are several other ways to view pdf documents.
- Disable the “Display PDF in Browser” option in Adobe Reader
- To do this, go to Start >> All Programs >> Adobe Reader
- Click on Edit and chose Preferences
- On the Internet Setting page, uncheck the “Display PDF in Browser” option
- Delete Temp and cache files
- For Internet Explorer 6, click on Tools >> Internet Options
- Delete temporary Internet files
- Delete Cookies
- Clear History
- Save the PDF onto your local machine
- To do this, right-click on the link and Save Target As
- Save the document and remember where you saved it
- Open the document from your hard drive
What happens if I try all of this and still have trouble?
If you’re still experiencing trouble viewing a PDF, please call 806-743-2870. Tell the receptionist that you are calling regarding a WebCT issue and she will transfer you to WebCT helpdesk personnel who will aid you in troubleshooting the issue. You may also send an email to webcthelp@ttuhsc.edu. When sending an email, please include your name, eRaider username, a description of the issue you are experiencing, time of occurrence, and your contact information in the email.