Software
Basic Information
Format Issues
Facts to take on board
E-Reader Software Requiring Purchase
Software to assist e-publishing
Basic Information
*How - and with what - do you read an e-book?
This is really two questions, involving hardware and software.1. The hardware answer is that you read a digital or electronic book in one of as many as six ways
(more may be evolving as you read this). The first three means are longer established, and are
described in this paragraph. You may use a desktop or laptop personal computer, either online or
offline to the Internet. Or you can read on a handheld device designed specifically for the purpose,
known as a dedicated e-reader. Thirdly, you can read your e-book on any of a large number of
general handheld devices. These are known either as PDAs (= personal digital assistants), or as
pocket computers. Examples are Palms & Handsprings, Pocket PCs & Psions. There are many
other types of these.Further varieties of e-reading devices include web tablets and the combined phone/PDAs also
known as convergence devices or smart phones. In fact the evolution of mobile (cell) phones is such that any new generation mobile phone with internet connectivity will usually be a potential e-reader as well.Another broad category of devices designed primarily for music and games may also be used as e-readers. These include iPODS, Play Station Portables, the Nintendo Wii and similar devices. MMCs (mobile media companions) and UMPCs (ultra mobile PCs) are two other new additions to the field of e-reading.
By the way, you don't have to read your books necessarily, you can listen to them instead as audiobooks if you prefer. For example a large number of novels have now become available as mp3 files, some read by prominent actors, others by ordinary people donating their time..
2. Apart from your hardware, you always read an e-book with some sort of software too. Which
software? That depends on the format, or file type, in which the e-book is presented. So in that sense the choice may be fixed, but you may also have additional software options available to enhance your reading experience.*A limitation with e-books at present is that in many cases the reader - either human or electronic -
cannot simply convert file formats to other file formats. Therefore if an e-book is not offered in a
format type that you have e-reader software already installed for, you may not be able to read it at all. Or you may need to obtain extra software first. Most e-reader software is available free however, and even the kinds you have to buy are usually not expensive.*It is important, though, that you be well aware of software issues before you purchase any
e-books, or even try to read free ones. The information below will help you understand these issues. In addition, links are provided so you can obtain a variety of (mostly free) e-reader software.
Format Issues
The existence of different file formats has both good and bad features. Examples of the good are that particular formats may have various advantages suitable to particular types or styles of books (e.g. novels, textbooks or illustrated children's books). As well, their rivalry stimulates the development of better software overall.However, as frequently happens with new technology, the issue has also become a problem, as a result of intense competing commercial pressures. The biggest difficulty is caused by the failure of the players in the field to agree on common underlying standards, or to arrange for the inter-convertibility of formats for books that are commercially available (in so far as this could be possible).
There are several scenarios that might eventually resolve these difficulties. For example all or most e-books could be offered in multiple formats (many e-booksellers offer at least two or three at present). Alternatively, everyone could agree to use one particular format (unlikely soon). Or again, just one format - or a very few formats - could emerge as dominant in the marketplace. Or lastly, a technical & commercial mechanism could be established to facilitate the easy inter-convertibility of various formats through a trusted intermediary. The new .epub format offers a potential platform for such a mechanism.
While some major corporations are still hoping that that their own product will win out over all others, there are also at present trends in e-publishing towards the first and fourth solutions. Viewed historically, e-books are still in their infancy, so it is too early to predict with any confidence what the final outcome will be.
For the curious, there is a list of most file formats likely to be encountered in connection with e-books at the base of this page.
In the meantime, it helps to take these facts on board:
i) If an e-book is offered in HTML, or plain text, you will be able to read it immediately with your web browser on your personal desktop or laptop computer. There is also extra software available to read it outside your browser (but still on your computer) in a more book-like experience, with additional features that a printed book can never offer. Examples are the ability to change the font size or style, or even the background texture, hyperlinks in the text (so you can jump straight to selected locations in the text or even on the Web), the ability to search the text in various ways, and an inbuilt dictionary.
You can also read HTML book files on various handheld devices that are equipped with modified web browsers, or various other e-reader software. Or you may be able to add such software to them. Check the information that comes with your device.
ii) If an e-book is offered in a format other than HTML or plain text , such as Adobe PDF, Microsoft Reader or Palm formats, you must first download & install particular (free) software on your computer or handheld device in order to read the book. In some cases, computer users will already have at least one of these installed on their PC. Most commonly this will be some version of the Adobe Reader for .pdf files. Meanwhile, many handheld devices do come with some variety of e-reader software pre-installed, or supplied available for installation.
iii) Just because you have a particular operating system on your device, this does not mean that all e-books that seem to come from an "opposing" system cannot be read. For example you can read Palm format e-books on a Windows or Mac PC, or on a (Windows) Pocket PC. Similarly you can read PDF format e-books on a Palm, PocketPC or Symbian OS device. However, in such cases you must first install the appropriate e-reader software to make this possible.
*
NB: There are sometimes different varieties of such software to suit various devices, and you should download the correct one in order to read your e-book satisfactorily. So you should carefully study the information provided, before you download any e-reader software.
What if there is e-reader software already installed on my device?
Some devices have proprietary e-reader software already installed, or reserved to the buyer for individual installation. You need to know the implications of this, as explained below:a) Where the software is the only one the device will allow - for example with the Gemstar REB devices (these are no longer manufactured) - the only books you will be able to read on the device are those that are offered in that format. So there you need to be careful, as if the books you want aren't offered, or the companies that support the e-reader stops offering books in that format, the device may not be of so much use to you.
b) Sometimes a device may have its own proprietary format reader installed, but also allow you to install another type of e-reader software. For example the Franklin eBookman has its own Franklin Reader with a limited variety of books available, but you can also install Mobipocket Reader on it, which allows you to read a much larger variety of books.
c) Some handhelds may not come with any particular e-reader software, but may allow you to install one (or more) of your own choice. Or they may include one of the more popular ones, but allow you to uninstall it and add another instead.
So then it's up to you to judge which one you want. You can experiment, of course. One person may for example like a particular type of software because of all the useful features it offers. A second person may prefer another variety because of how simple it is to use, while a third person may choose a different e-reader software because they can find so many of a particular type of books they like in that format. It's your choice. You can also ask your friends for their opinion - or be the pioneer who sets the trend in your circle. Whichever, happy reading!
NB: The above information is provided free as a general guide & public service only, without liability of any kind. No responsibility is taken for any difficulties that may be encountered, and this website cannot offer assistance with individual enquiries. Note that new versions of operating systems may not yet be supported by some current e-reader software. However if an indicated software does not seem to support your current OS, you should check the relevant website's download page in case a newer e-reader software edition is now available.
For HTML and plain text e-books For Palm/eReader format e-books For PDF e-books
For Microsoft Format e-books Multi-format readers Other format readers
For HTML and plain text e-books (.html, .htm, .txt)
Your Web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Netscape, Opera etc.) will support reading of these e-books and you need nothing else. In addition though, there are a number of other e-readers you can install for an enhanced reading experience. Examples follow.
Tom's eTextReader This free (freeware) program lets you read plain text files - e.g. Project Gutenberg e-books - in a book-like manner. You can select Window size, font style and font size. Page breaks are then inserted automatically. You can also set bookmarks and search for character strings. A simple text editor is included as well. This program does not use a lot of memory. http://pws.prserv.net/Fellner/Software/eTR.htm
yBook, from Spacejock. The yBook takes plain text (.txt) or HTML files and displays the contents as if they were printed in a paperback novel. You get two pages side by side & can click the pages to turn them; you can also change the typeface/ & re-size the fonts 8 to 24 points Other features too. Another pleasing -and Aussie - creative achievement from one of the "small-fry" who often outperform the "big guys" on the Web.
http://www.spacejock.com
For Microsoft format e-books (.lit files)
Microsoft Reader for Desktop and Laptop PC
Free software, available in English, French,German, Italian or Spanish versions. If you have an older version already installed, be sure to uninstall it first.
http://www.microsoft.com/reader/downloads/pc.aspMicrosoft Reader for Pocket PC This reader software comes pre-installed on most Pocket PC 2002 and Pocket PC 2003 devices, and may not be compatible with older ones. Before downloading it you should read the relevant Microsoft webpage information carefully. Available in English, French,German, Italian or Spanish versions.
http://www.microsoft.com/reader/downloads/ppc.aspMicrosoft Reader for Tablet PC Microsoft Reader for Tablet PC is designed specifically for computers running Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition. It is not designed for any other operating system or device. Available in English, French, & German.
http://www.microsoft.com/reader/downloads/tablet.aspMicrosoft Text-to-Speech Package For desktop, laptop and tablet Windows OS PCs. Designed to allow for an audio e-book experience, through text to speech conversion. Comes in English, French, & German varieties. Note that you must have Microsoft Reader 2.0 installed on your machine first, for this additional software to work.
http://www.microsoft.com/reader/developers/downloads/tts.aspWindows Mobile: Windows Mobile OS 5.0 was released in May 2005. It supports flash memory, plus landscape displays, 3G networks and Wi-Fi on smart phones. The updated OS also contains new mobile versions of Word, Excel & Outlook, and include a PowerPoint version and Windows Media Player 10. In addition: enhanced support for Bluetooth, USB 2.0, and integrated hard drives, & it also features improved security. The previous highest Windows Mobile OS version was Windows Mobile 2003 SE (Second Edition).
Windows Mobile OS Version 6 should be available in devices released in Australia from May 2007. Features of this latest version include: access to Windows Live services; improvements to email functionality; support for Microsoft Office features previously available only on full version PCs; a smart calendar bar; & synchronization with Windows Vista.
For Palm or eReader format e-books (.prc, .pdb files)
eReader (formerly Palm Reader & originally Peanut Reader). Basic e-reader software for Palm OS devices, with separate versions for other devices/OS, such as PocketPCs, Windows Mobile or Symbian Smartphones, MAC OS, Unix or OQO. The eReader for Palm either comes with your Palm or other Palm OS devices (e.g. Handspring, Sony Clie) or may be added in by download & installation. From:
http://www.ereader.com/product/detail/15002?software=eReader_for_Palm_OSThere is also a purchasable eReader Pro (some Palm e-books now require the latter). If you want a
copy of the free eReader but would like to check out the fuller version, you can alternatively download a 15 day free trial of eReader Pro. After 15 days the extra Pro features will be disabled, but the rest of the Reader will continue to work as normal.
http://www.ereader.com/products/ereader/trial
Check for the version suitable for your handheld device at:
http://www.ereader.com/products/ereader/proor at : http://www.ereader.com/product/browse/software
CspotRun Free reader for documents in the Palm DOC format. Available in Chinese, Czech,
English, French, German, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, or Turkish editions. http://www.32768.com/bill/palmos/cspotrunHandStory Basic reader for "Palm Doc" and HandStory eBooks. HandStory Basic is a freeware, limited features version of HandStory Suite. There is also a Japanese version, and versions for Mac, PocketPC, & an upgrade for Palm OS 5.2 and above.
http://www.handstory.com/product/download.htmlQvadis Express Reader Lite For reading Palm Doc e-texts on Palm OS 3.0 & above. A reduced
but still well-featured & impressive version of the purchasable Qvadis Express Reader. This software has a very small "footprint" (memory requirement).
http://www.freewarepalm.com/docs/qvadisexpressreaderlite.shtmlNB: Many people get confused between two similar sounding but different file formats, both
available for Palm devices These are the ubiquitous Palm Reader format (.prc files) and the somewhat less common Palm Doc format (.pdb files). Each has its own e-reader software.
The essential point to remember is that the Palm Reader (now known simply as eReader) software can read both Palm Reader and Palm Doc format e-books, but e-books formatted for Palm Reader cannot be read with Palm Doc e-reader software.
1. Adobe Digital Editions (NB: Also supports .epub e-books)
Adobe's "Digital Editions" Version 1.5 now has versions for both Windows and Mac, with a Linux version still awaited. Like its predecessor the Adobe eBook Reader, this is a much smaller software than the Adobe Reader and is specific for e-books. The download is 4.3MB for the Windows version. Digital Editions software will now read not only PDFs but also the new, fluid ".epub" file specification. Useful features include the abilities to change font size, add bookmarks, make text notes and highlight passages, while SWF multimedia files are supported too. Digital Editions also offers a library mode and a bookshelves feature.
"Digital Editions " is currently offered in English, French, and German versions and can display content in a wide range of languages. Please note the minimum system requirements.
http://www.adobe.com/products/digitaleditions/
2. Adobe Reader
Go to this URL to find the most recent Adobe Reader version compatible with your desktop or laptop operating system. The Adobe Reader is a larger, fully-featured software for general use with PDF files.
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.htmlGeneral Adobe Version Notes:
*The latest Adobe Reader version is the Adobe Reader 9 (released July 2008).To use Adobe Reader 9 on a Windows OS PC you need Windows XP or Windows Vista. If you go to this Adobe page and select your OS and version, your system will be scanned and you will be informed of the highest Adobe Reader version you can update to. If your OS predates those shown, you should retain your existing version. Specifically, If you are running Windows ME or 2000 ignore any upgrading hints the Reader may give, and do not go beyond Adobe Reader 7. If your Windows is 95, 98, or 98SE it is unwise to go beyond Adobe Reader 6. Note that although dire warnings may flash up, most PDFs will still display successfully with Adobe Reader 6 or above.
* New features of Adobe Reader 9. Fully supports the newest PDF file versions. Can interact directly with Adobe Flash software. There are useful improvements to search abilities too. This release is available for Windows and Mac operating systems only so far, in English, French, German, and Japanese language versions. Further OS and language support is expected later.
* Since the full release of Digital Editions (see above) Adobe Reader Versions 8 and above will not themselves read DRM-protected PDF e-books, although Digital Editions can be launched from within Adobe Reader 8 and above. However if you want to continue reading DRM-protected e-books & don't want to install the Digital Editions software, stick with earlier versions of the Adobe Reader.
Earlier version notes
*Adobe Reader 6 and the earlier Acrobat eBook Reader can coexist as separate general PDF
and e-book readers, or you can migrate most e-books previously acquired to Adobe Reader 6
using the eBook Migration Utility.*Adobe Reader 6 united the Acrobat eBook Reader and the Acrobat Reader. All e-books acquired after installing Adobe Reader 6.0 or above versions download to your Adobe Reader.
*Note also that Netscape 4 web browser versions do not support Adobe 6, so if you are still
using any of these old versions of Netscape do not go above Adobe 5 to read PDF files.* For the record: The fastest-loading Adobe PDF reader was actually Acrobat Reader 4.05.
Prior versions
If you prefer an earlier Acrobat Reader version, or want a version for a different OS, go instead to: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2_allversions.html
3. Adobe Reader versions for mobile devices
For Adobe Reader versions for a mobile device with one of the following operating systems:
Palm OS for Windows, Palm OS for Macintosh, Windows Mobile for Pocket PC, Symbian OS go to: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2_mobile.html
For viewing Adobe PDF files on Palm OS devices:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readerforpalm.html
For viewing Adobe PDF files on Pocket PC devices:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readerforppc.html
For viewing Adobe PDF files on Symbian OS devices
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readerforsymbian.html
NB: The above are the main current versions. If you want to look at all possible versions of Adobe Readers (including older versions, all languages versions and versions for different operating
systems), or if you want to download from a plain text page, go instead to: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/alternate.html
Non-Adobe PDF Readers
Pdf Reader for Symbian OS PDAs. Free/shareware version of the PDF+ Reader, with lesser functionality. Available as a zip file, (pdf.zip), or as a (much larger) pdf.sis file. For more details see: http://www.mBrainSoftware.com/Pdf/Pdf.htm
AportisDoc Well-featured software for viewing electronic text and books on Palm OS, Pocket PC
& Windows CE portable devices. Comes in various versions, obtainable from:
http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file_description/0,fid,6227,00.asp
Note that a related software, AportisDoc Converter for Windows, can convert web pages, Microsoft Word (.doc),
WordPerfect (.wpd), Adobe Acrobat PDF (.pdf), Rich Text (.rtf), or text (.txt) files into AportisDoc (Doc) format, to read
on the above OS handhelds.FBReader is a free e-book reader for many Linux-based portable devices and Linux and Windows XP desktop computers. It supports the following file formats: CHM, .fb2, HTML, mobipocket (non-DRM only) OeB, OpenReader, Palmdoc, Plain text, plucker, RTF, TCR zTxt. The various versions were still in Beta format at mid 2008, so please consider that factor before installing.
http://www.fbreader.org/downloads.phpMentoract Reader Free, cross-platform viewer for OEB standard-compliant e-books (provided they are not encrypted). It continues to be improved. Features include: displays animated GIF (.gif) graphics, supports interactive Java applets, plays embedded audio. Supports internationalized characters sets, including correct right-to-left flowing script. Automatic recognition of system-installed fonts for international characters. One-page or two-page displays available for all books, resizing of screen or fonts offered & full text search included.
http://www.globalmentor.com/software/readerMobiPocket Reader
Popular, well-featured & multi-platform, the French-based MobiPocket is an e-book
& e-news reader for handheld devices. There are versions that works with Palm OS (version 3.0 & above), Windows CE (version 2.0 and above), Windows Mobile, Symbian OS and with devices such as the Blackberry, Psion Epoc32, the Franklin eBookman, Nokia 9210, 9290 & various other Nokia, Symbian, & MS model smartphones, Casio BE-300 & & some other devices.Available in both English & a range of European languages. Reads texts formatted as .doc, OEB,
.prc, .txt, & HTML, as well as Mobipocket editions. The free version is available from:
http://www.mobipocket.com/en/DownloadSoft/ProductDetailsReader.aspuBook is an e-book reader for Windows OS & the Pocket PC that lets you read a number of other formats, including HTML, TXT, RTF, and unencrypted (not commercial) PRC (Palm format) and PDB (Palm DOC format) e-book files. Reportedly also useful for reading large & cumbersome Word documents - simply save the large Word file as an HTML, RTF, or TXT file, & then read it using uBook. Free as a "nagging"/trial version, or $US15 for a licenced copy.
http://www.gowerpoint.com
There's also µBookLite at: http://www.gowerpoint.com/uBookLite_main.html
eBooksReader Reads e-books created with the EBooksWriter software.
http://www.afreego.com/Categories/Home_and_Education/E_Books/005576.php
FlipViewer allows the viewing of online content in a "realistic 3D page flipping book". Many
Flip Books are available on the Net. The viewer is free, but you can also purchase software to
create your own Flip Books. There are two varieties, FlipViewer & FlipViewer Browser Version.http://www.flipviewer.com/fv/downloads.php
Game Boy Book Reader MQP Electronics sponsors a page where enthusiasts teach you how to
load books to the Game Boy device, with a link to some free classic adventure novels also provided.
http://www.bookreader.co.ukhiebook Reader for PC This software comes pre-installed on hiebook devices and is no longer available independently. However it is also included on the device CD, so that if you wish to read hiebook formatted titles on your PC you can install it there and do so. There's also HiBuilder software, which you can use to make your own hiebook format e-book, or to convert your personal documents for reading on the hiebook device.
i S i l o free Limited free version of this memory-saving software. Fast searching features & the
ability to display html documents are amongst its assets. Also supports the .pdb (Palm DOC) format for Palm OS devices. You download the full iSilo as a trial version to begin with - after 30 days it drops to the limited free version, if you do not buy it. Varieties available for Palm, Pocket PC, Windows, Windows CE, Windows Mobile Smartphone, Symbian UIQ, and Symbian Series 60
http://www.isilo.comOpieReader (QTRreader) - is an e-book reader for Linux OS. It will read the following formats:
"Doc" (AportisDoc) , Weasel or ztxt, Plucker, gzipped text, ppms text, plain text with special handling of PML or HTML marked-up text, plus early non-DRM Palm Reader pdb files. For further information & download visit:
http://www.timwentford.uklinux.net
e-Reader Software Requiring Purchase
NB: Before you buy or download any software, we recommend you first read the FAQ (frequently asked questions) or other relevant Information on the website in question, to check if the software is appropriate for your needs.
DeepReader For Palm OS devices (OS version 3.5 or higher). Shareware designed by one of those talented individuals who put major corporations to shame.
This software supports the Palm DOC (.pdb) format. Features include bookmarks, choice of several easy-to-read fonts, clear paragraph breaks, indenting, "smart" quotes, italics, full justification options, "and more." You can also set text to automatically smooth-scroll at various speeds. Further options for colour screens & advanced- model handhelds like the Sony Clie. Free trial version available, or buy from:
http://www.rzanerutledge.com/deepreader/iSilo E-reader available in different versions for Palm OS devices (Palm OS 3.0 or higher) and for Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002 & Pocket PC 2003. iSilo displays documents formatted using HTML & also supports the .pdb format. Features include higher text compression (so uses less memory), supports hyperlinks & high-quality colour images. A free trial download is available. From:
http://www.isilo.comOrneta Reader A document reader for the Smartphone that reads text and PDF files(without graphics). It will read files of any size, and will open a document at the same place it was last closed. Text size and fonts are adjustable for easy reading. Text is displayed by flowing the document without using scrollbars: An automated playback mode scrolls by word, page, or line.
http://www.handango.com/eReader Pro for handhelds Purchasable de luxe versions of the free (Palm) eReader software. Also in French,German, Italian or Spanish; & for Windows and Macintosh PCs as well as Palm handhelds & PocketPCs. The Agfa Monotype eBook Font Pack may also be purchased.
http://www.ereader.com/products/ereader/pro*Note that eReader Pro for Palm OS requires a handheld supporting Palm OS 3.0 or later.
PDF+ Reader The PDF+ reader is for recent Symbian OS (EPOC) PDA's. It works on all Symbian ER1, ER3 and ER5 PDA's, including the Psion Series 5, 5mx & 5mx Pro, the Series 7, the Psion Netbook, the Revo & Revo Plus, the Diamond Mako, the Ericsson MC 218 and the Oregon Scientific Osaris. There is also a separate version for the Nokia 9200 Series Communicator. You can purchase this software from Handango. A plainer version (Pdf Reader) is available for free. For full details see:
http://www.mBrainSoftware.com/Pdf/Pdf.htmSharp DOC Reader is an e-book reader for the (embedded Linux- based) Sharp Zaurus device. This software can read .pdb and .prc files in DOC, Ztxt (Weasel), & MobileDB formats. Many features, e.g. page management, bookmarks, multiple font sizes, word search.
Sharp DOC ReaderTomeRaider TomeRaider works with Palm OS, Pocket PC, Pocket PC 2002 & EPOC handhelds, & Windows too. Features a simple interface but database-like capabilities, including excellent compression, good indexing, fast navigation, and super-fast searching. The TomeRaider file format does not support DRM (encrypted files), which means you won't find any current commercial titles for it. However, there are nearly 2,000 free e-documents in TomeRaider format available at MemoWare
To download a free demo TomeRaider version, or purchase the full version, specify your device OS at:
http://www.handango.comQVADIS Express Reader Easy to use, well-featured, award-winning, Palm OS centred software. Comes in three forms, all available for free 30 day trial as shareware. These are:
*Express Reader GT for Palm applications only.
*Express Reader DX for Desktop PCs.
*Express Reader Pro/ Express Publisher for both Palm and Desktop PCs. As a PC viewer this last is also an editor/converter that enables you to preview, edit or convert to Palm format from text, rich text, HTML and MS Word.
http://www.qvadis.com/expressreader/pro.html
Speciality & Disability e-Reader Software
CAST eReader A text to speech + extras reader, available in both Macintosh and Windows versions. Adds spoken voice, visual highlighting and document/ page navigation to any electronic text. Users can also select volume, speed, and pitch of the reading voices. Source text can be HTML, word processing files, scanned or typed-in text. A full-featured shareware (Windows only) demo. version can also be downloaded from their site.
http://www.cast.org/products/Copernic Summarizer is software which "analyses texts, pinpoints key concepts, and quickly produces allegedly concise and accurate summaries composed of the most important sentences. It's reported to work with file types.doc, .txt, .pdf, .rtf, .url, .htm & .html; in English, French, German and Spanish. You can run it on a PDA or integrate it into a Web browser. Free trial version available, fully functional for 30 days.
http://www.copernic.com/products/summarizer/DAISY (talking book format). The DAISY Consortium is made up of organisations world-wide serving persons who are blind or print -disabled. DAISY is establishing an International Standard for the production, exchange, and use of the next generation of "Digital Talking Books". Here you will find production tools, specifications and other useful information on producing digital audio books. Some information is freely available for downloading, other information is restricted to registered members.
http://www.daisy.org/
http://www.daisy.org/download/default.aspEmbiid Reader for Windows No longer available. The Embiid website has closed. This reader was designed for e-books & documents prepared in the proprietary Embiid file format (.ubk). The software will also read plain text files & simpler HTML. It is a small, quick-loading application allowing selection of font face, colour, size & background colour. The Embiid Reader freeware was designed with the vision-impaired in mind. NB: There is also an Embiid Reader for Palm OS devices (basically "CspotRun" with DRM added).
eMonocle Reader Comes from Ion Systems, the GalaxyLibrary people. It is designed to read e-books conforming to the Open eBook (OeB) file specification, & may also be used with other XML file types. EMonocle provides special assistance to low-vision, dyslexic, scotopic and blind readers. For example font size may be increased up to 144 points, and graphics & online forms may also be enlarged. Background color or contrast settings may be altered too. Single click page turning, & printing in different font sizes are other features.
http://www.ionsystems.com/emonocle/SmartReader SmartReader is cross-platform, java-based e-reader software specifically designed for use with interactive mathematical, scientific & engineering text. It is claimed to run on any device that supports Java or Personal Java. Versions for Macintosh, Win CE, any JVM (Java Virtual Machine) available. For further information, go to this shareware download page: http://www.poliplus.com/download.htm
SVG Viewer (SVG = Scalable Vector Graphics) A viewer intended for use especially with maps & highly detailed images. Our very own CSIRO developed this software for desktop & laptop PCs, & subsequently for Windows CE handheld devices. However CSIRO advised in 2007 that PocketSVG is no longer available.
TextAloud The NextUp company provides a boon to the visually impaired with their TextAloud program, which converts e-texts into audio books for either immediate use or saving as MP3 files. At:
http://www.NextUp.com
TK3 Reader Freeware, for Windows and Macintosh computers. Allows you to read multimedia documents created with TK3 Author. Great for kids books & many multimedia situations. Read more & then download if desired from:
http://www.nightkitchen.comTumbleReader TumbleBooks are interactive animated picture books for kids. They include text, music and narration and are designed for the TumblePad device. However the free e-reader for the "TumbleBooks" format is also downloadable to PC's, notebooks and handheld devices. It comes with joining the Tumble Club/Library for an annual fee.
http://www.tumblebooks.com/
Software to assist e-publishing - general
Planet Publish Tools List Includes categories for design, graphics, dynamic media, fonts, web,
print and XML for publishing. Their excellent directory contains more than 1,000 software products. http://www.planetpublish.com/mainpage.asp?webpageid=17&nlPocketPC mag's Encyclopedia of Software and Accessories http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=346151&s=32472738
Some Individual e-Publishing & File Conversion Software
Adobe Acrobat For creating PDF e-books or documents. Comes in two main varieties.
For further information view the following pages:
Adobe Acrobat Standard
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobatstd/main.htmlAdobe Acrobat Professional
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobatpro/main.htmlAdobe Content Server Designed to package and distribute encrypted Adobe PDF e-books
directly from your Web site. Adobe discontinued sales of Adobe Content Server software on
November 30, 2004. However customers can continue to distribute content with the digital rights management (DRM) functionality found in Adobe Acrobat versions 6.0x and 7.0, with
Adobe Reader 7.0 software, and with the new Adobe Digital Editions integrated with Adobe Acrobat and Reader 8.0 software. The Digital Rights Management activator service will be maintained
until December 31, 2007.http://www.adobe.com/products/contentserver/main.html
eBook Pro This e-book compiler addresses security issues in particular. It uses an HTML source
file. You can also incorporate Flash animation, Shockwave sound, Real Audio & Video, Acive X & javascript features. There is currently a base charge, plus a small fee for each "registration code" for copies of your book sold in excess of one thousand. Expect lots of hype, & beware of pop-ups, at:
http://www.ebookpro.com/EBooksWriter Prepare self-extracting, searchable e-books with full password management; copy
and print disabling; expire- by date as required. Full visual editor. Online manual, an online forum,
& email support. Free trial LITE edition supports a maximum of about 40 pages. PRO edition for complete books available for purchase. French, German & Italian versions also available. Books
created are to be read in the free eBooksReader (see free e-readers)
http://www.ebookswriter.com/Electric Quill Professional Quill Professional Feature Set. "Quill Pro is a pre-publication e-book text editor designed specifically for the creation of quality electronic books for publication on web sites or in Microsoft Reader eBook (Lit) format..." See:
http://esspc-ebooks.com/default.htmFlipPublisher Software to create "realistic 3D page-flipping" e-books, documents, photo albums etc., for viewing online on the Web, or offline on CD-ROM.
http://www.flipviewer.com/product/flippublisher.phpHTMLDOC Converts HTML files to PDF or PostScript. Runs on Mac OS X, Windows OS (Windows 95 plus), & UNIX/Linux operating systems. An OS/2 version is also available. Purchasable versions: HTMLDOC with 90 day End-User Software Support; HTMLDOC with 1 year End-User Software Support. Also offered (free) is PDF-o-matic, a PHP script that uses HTMLDOC to convert the web page of your choice to PDF.
http://www.easysw.com/htmldoc/Intuitext offered an online text-conversion service from Romanian-based, OEB forum member SOFTWIN. Intuitext.com enabled automated conversion of documents to XML and XML-based formats. Accepted input formats included Adobe PDF, QuarkXPress, MS Word, FrameMaker, RTF or Page Maker. The company is still active in other areas
http://www.intuitext.com/KeeBook Creator Similar to Flipbook Publisher in that it enables the creation of double-page display 3D Web books from HTML documents. NB: you can convert Word documents to HTML using Microsoft Office 97 & above. KeeBook Creator has a free 15 day trial version available. There is also a more expensive fuller-featured KeeBook Creator Pro for professionals, & a KeeBook Creator Education for teachers.
http://www.keeboo.com/enu/MakePDF for Word If you want to convert Microsoft Word documents to Portable Document Format (PDF) without the full expense of Adobe Acrobat, then MakePDF for Word is a cheaper, if less-featured, alternative. To use, just copy the MakePDF.dot template into your Word Startup folder to add a "Make PDF" toolbar to Word. Click the toolbar's Print to PDF button to create a PDF version of the Word file. Includes encryption and file-compression options, but not the internal links, bookmarks, password protection, and some other features of Acrobat Acrobat. http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file_description/0,fid,22292,tk,hsx,00.asp
Microsoft Reader Ebook Wizard 1.0 Simple software to create MS Reader e-books.
Available from:
http://www.5cup.com/shareware/Home___Education-E-books___Literature-Reader_Ebook_Wizard-2.0.htmlMobipocket Creator 4.2 enables you to create e-books, e-news, photo albums, personal databases and more. Simple and intuitive user interface and expandable templates. Allows publishers to create their e-books with a content authoring tool designed for customers who read on their PDAs, smartphones or PCs. Includes Import wizards for Adobe PDF & Microsoft Word text files to import existing electronic files. Also includes Mobipocket Emulator to test and preview the eBooks that you create.
http://www.mobipocket.com/en/DownloadSoft/ProductDetailsCreator.asp
Palm eBook Studio is an authoring tool allowing individuals, businesses, publishing companies and online retailers to create, distribute and sell e-books that can be read by eReader software on Palm OS or PocketPC handheld devices, or on Windows & Macintosh desktops. You can either create e-books from scratch, or cut and paste information from existing documents -- such as MS Word or any application that supports Rich Text Format (RTF) -- into eBook Studio. The basic eBook Studio software prepares unencrypted eReader compatible e-books, & is available for both Windows and Mac. It supports the use of graphics and images. If you wish to create protected e-books with DRM (digital rights management) however, then see below.
http://www.ereader.com/product/detail/15001
If you wish to sell Palm format e-books, you need to enter a licencing agreement in addition to purchasing the product. There are two options for authors/publishers. You should carefully compare costs, advantages & disadvantages and the relevance to your situation before selecting an option:Palm eReader Starter Pak is intended for authors with up to two books who would like to sell them
from their own webpage or site. NB: may require considerable effort for a larger text. It has a higher
initial charge than the Commerce Pak, but no royalties are payable on the first 2,500 copies sold.Palm eReader Commerce Pak is intended either for the small publisher or web retailer who
plans to sell a variety of e-book titles in unencrypted form, or for the publisher who plans to distribute his titles through a eReader authorized reseller. You need to enter a licencing agreement in
addition to purchasing the product.
ReaderWorks Standard (for Microsoft format) Free software you can use to convert MS Word, HTML, OeB & plain text documents into MS Reader format (Lit) e-books. Also allows for .jpg. .gif &
.png images. Converted e-books can be read on any Windows-based PC, laptop or Pocket PC with Microsoft Reader installed.
http://www.overdrive.com/readerworks/software/standard.asp
ReaderWorks Publisher Fuller-featured e-book authoring and conversion software to produce commercial Microsoft Reader format e-books, for distribution and sale. Accepts MS Word
documents, HTML, OeB Text (ASCII) and JPG, GIF, PNG images. http://www.overdrive.com/readerworks/software/publisher.asp
ReaderWorks SDK A more automated version of ReaderWorks Publisher, SDK is suitable for
large publishers, online content portals, or production facilities. May be purchased from:
http://www.overdrive.com/readerworks/software/sdk.aspTextcafeTexterity's Textcafe file conversion service provides simultaneous e-book editions in six
OEB-compliant formats, Adobe (.pdf), Gemstar (.rb), MS Reader (Lit), HTML, XML & basic OEB
itself. Output to: Open eBook (OEB)1.0, Gemstar eBooks, Palm Reader, Microsoft Reader,
netLibrary OEB & browser HTML . Quotes available from online application.
http://www.textcafe.comXML editors
Check out the offerings at:
http://www.topologi.com
http://www.webxsystems.com
Formats List (this list of file types is not exhaustive)
APABI - special Chinese file format for the iRex Iliad e-reader.
.azw - proprietary file format for Amazon's Kindle device (based on the Mobipocket format).
BBeB (BroadBand electronic Book) - Sony Reader proprietary file format.
.chm - a Microsoft proprietary compressed HTML format.
DOC - AportisDoc format.
.doc - Microsoft Word document (Word versions up to Office 2003; may be set in Office 2007).
.docx -default Microsoft Word document in Office 2007 (= Open XML file format).
.ebx - technical name for the Adobe Acrobat eBook Reader file format.
.epub - open format from the International Digital Publishing Forum, formerly the Open eBook forum. Formulated from OPS 2.0 (Open Publication Structure).
.fb2 - Fictionbook. FBReader, AlReader, Haali Reader and okular software will read this file type, which originated in Russia.
.htm or .html - file written in hypertext markup language (HTML) for reading in Web browsers.
.hwp - Hangul Word Processor, a Korean file format.
.imp - Fictionwise company's file format for eBookwise/ REB/Gemstar devices.
.kml - hiebook proprietary file format.
.lit - Microsoft Reader format for Windows PCs/laptops, plus Win CE & Pocket PC devices.
.lrf - General format for Sony Reader and Sony Librie devices.
.lwp - Lotus Word Pro file.
.mobi - Mobipocket format. Mobipocket software can convert .chm, .doc, .html, .ocf, .pdf, .rtf, and .txt files to this format.
OCF - (= OPS Container Format). A distribution format for .epub files.
OeB - formulated in full compliance with Open eBook specifications. Superseded by .epub.
.pdb - Palm DOC. iSilo software also reads this format.
.pdf - Adobe PDF format, for Adobe Reader.
.pkg - originally a compressed file for Newton OS e-books. Now mostly an Apple format for Macintosh computers, the iPhone and the Sony Playstation 3.
.prc - format read by Palm OS devices.
.rb - proprietary file format for Rocket eBook, REB 1100, REB 1200 e-reader devices.
.sam - Ami Pro Text File.
.sdw - Star Office text file.
.seb - Franklin proprietary eBookman format.
.stk - Star eBook format
.rtf - Rich text file. Older, limited format, not so common now.
.tcr - A format for devices using the Psion operating system.
.tk3 - Multimedia files read by the TK3 reader from Nightkitchen.
.txt - Plain text format. (ASCII -very limited formatting, special features not available).
.ubk - Proprietary encrypted file type for the Embiid Reader.
.vbk - VitalBook proprietary file format from VitalSource Technologies Inc.
.wolf - Proprietary format used by HanLin e Readers.
.wpd - WordPerfect document.
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