FDF File Extension

What is FDF file?

FDF is a text file that contains information filled in active PDF form. FDF file is generated when given form is filled and exported. Please notice that FDF files are not created automatically. Form data may be exported by choosing an appropriate option from the Adobe Acrobat Reader menu.

Extracting data from interactive forms

PDF files are larger and have more complex structure compared to FDF files. FDF are only used in situations where we need to extract from a document only the information entered by a person filling in given form. Such information can then be processed as needed.

Programs which support FDF file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with FDF files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with FDF extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 04/12/2020

How to open file with FDF extension?

Problems with accessing FDF may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with FDF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with FDF files.

Step 1. Download and install Adobe Acrobat

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening FDF files is that no program that can handle FDF files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Adobe Acrobat or one of the recommended programs (for example, Adobe Reader) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support FDF files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Adobe Acrobat installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Adobe Systems Incorporated website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat

You still cannot access FDF files although Adobe Acrobat is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Adobe Acrobat cannot handle files with FDF may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Adobe Acrobat should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Acrobat to FDF files

After installing Adobe Acrobat (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open FDF files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the FDF file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Adobe Acrobat is installed, check the Always use this app to open FDF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with FDF extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with FDF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the FDF is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the FDF file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Verify that the FDF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the FDF file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the FDF file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the FDF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with FDF extension is complete and error-free

If the FDF file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the FDF file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Adobe Acrobat

If the systems has insufficient resources to open FDF files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Acrobat Forms Data Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle FDF files.

Do you want to help?

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