A dedicated tool for basic PDF conversion
AFPL Ghostscript, developed by Artifex Software, is an open-source utility tool focused on text processing within converters. It can be used to view, convert, and manipulate a broad range of file formats, serving as a functional backend engine for rendering, viewing, and converting documents across various platforms.
The program’s functionality is centered on interpreting and processing description languages such as PostScript, PDF, EPS, and XPS. It utilizes a broad range of internal mechanisms to convert these inputs into numerous raster, vector, and printer-specific output formats, with supported formats including the industry standards: PDF, PNG, JPEG, and several PCL printer drivers. Beyond simple conversion, the program offers PDF optimization and compression, allowing users to significantly reduce file sizes and streamline documents for web or archival purposes. It has advanced documentation manipulation abilities, providing a range of scripts that make it possible to perform actions such as page imposition, resizing, and reordering. As a core engine AFPL Ghostscript is lightweight and efficient for batch processing and backend use.
A versatile interpreter for file conversion
Broad functionality in a single program
AFPL Ghostscript allows users to accurately preview how a document will look when printed on various physical devices without needing the actual hardware beforehand. Additionally, its color management supports accurate color space conversions between devices and file types, since its architecture allows it to be efficiently integrated into other applications such as print systems and PDF tools. However, since the program operates as a command-line interface (CLI) utility, it requires technical proficiency for effective use. This leads to lower how user-friendly it is and non-technical users end up needing to use separate, third-party programs for simple graphical user interfaces.
Simple but effective conversion tool
AFPL Ghostscript is a versatile interpreter for a wide range of file formats, going beyond basic PDF conversion. It stands as a powerful engine used for rendering, viewing, printing, and converting between different formats, making it a resource-efficient tool for technical users and developers. While its complexity and utilization on a command-line interface make it a complex tool for non-technical users, it is a reliable program for scriptable, high-quality document conversion and rendering.
Pros
- Extensive format support
- Resource-efficient
Cons
- Command-line interface might be intimidating for non-technical users
