Attaching files to a PDF

Question

I am struggling with attaching files to a PDF that I am generating at runtime.

I\'m using C# ASP.net in the MVC framework. I originally created the PDF using ABCpdf from

Answer 1

I'm sorry you didn't like my book.

Did you read chapter 16? You want to embed a file as a document-level attachment like this:

PdfFileSpecification fs = PdfFileSpecification.FileEmbedded(writer, ... );
fs.AddDescription("specificname", false);
writer.AddFileAttachment(fs);

Inside the document, you want to create a link to that opens the PDF document described with the keyword "specificname". This is done through an action:

PdfTargetDictionary target = new PdfTargetDictionary(true);
target.EmbeddedFileName = "specificname";
PdfDestination dest = new PdfDestination(PdfDestination.FIT);
dest.AddFirst(new PdfNumber(1));
PdfAction action = PdfAction.GotoEmbedded(null, target, dest, true);

You can use this action for an annotation, a Chunk, etc... For instance:

Chunk chunk = new Chunk(" (see info)");
chunk.SetAction(action);

It is a common misconception to think that this will work for any attachment. However, ISO-32000-1 is very clear about the GotoE(mbedded) functionality:

12.6.4.4 Embedded Go-To Actions An embedded go-to action (PDF 1.6) is similar to a remote go-to action but allows jumping to or from a PDF file that is embedded in another PDF file (see 7.11.4, “Embedded File Streams"). Streams”).

If you meant to ask "I want to attach any file (such as a Docx, jpg,... file) to my PDF and add an action to the PDF that opens such a file upon clicking a link," then you're asking something that isn't supported in the PDF specification.

Feel free to read ISO-32000-1. If you didn't understand my book, you'll have to do an extra effort trying to read the PDF standard...

Answer 2

The ABCpdf Annotations example project found under the ABCpdf menu item shows how to add file attachments. These use a standard 'Pin' format link icon.

Because this icon is commonly understood I would suggest that you use that one rather than replace it with a generic link.

However if you should need to use a more generic link please contact us via email and I think we have some sample code you can use.

I work on the ABCpdf .NET software component so my replies may feature concepts based around ABCpdf. It's just what I know. :-)"