How to Install a PDF Writer on a Mac

You will need to download and install a PDF writer in order to make PDF files if you are using a version of Mac OS prior to OS X. Installing software on your Mac is as simple as getting the software, unpacking it and “mounting” it by dragging and dropping it into your hard drive.

    Install Mac Software

  1. Step 1

    Locate and download the program you want to install, whether it is Adobe Acrobat or another PDF writer designed to work with your Mac. Some software is also offered on CD. To begin installation, load the CD into your Mac’s CD drive.

  2. Step 2

    “Unpack” your software. Downloaded software most often comes as a .dmg or “Disk Image” file or a .zip file. Usually this is the actual application to install. To unpack this type of file, you simply double click on the icon.

  3. Step 3

    Install the software by choosing where you want to save it on your hard drive. Most users save their programs in the “Applications” folder. Drag and drop the file into the folder where you want to save it. The Mac will then copy the PDF writer to the folder and you can run the program.

  4. Step 4

    “Unpack” and install the software using an installer. Some software comes with its own installer instead of as a .dmg or .zip file. The icon for the installer looks like a cardboard box. Double click it and choose its destination folder. The software will install itself.

  5. Step 5

    Eject the .dmg or the installer by dragging and dropping it to the trash can after you install the PDF writer.

Tips & Warnings
  • PDF writers act like print drivers: they allow you to “print” your document to the PDF writer to make PDF documents. Once you install the PDF writer, it will be listed as a printer on your Mac.
  • You can create PDF files from simple documents such Microsoft Word or Excel with a PDF writer. Mac OS X already has a PDF writer installed that allows you to do this. For more complex documents like .eps files and others made with professional graphics programs, you must use Adobe Acrobat or one of its competitors to create PDFs.
  • You must copy the Disk Image file to the hard drive before installing it. If you try to run the software from the .dmg, it will only “mount” temporarily on your hard drive. Copy it to the folder of your choice by dragging and dropping it to save it. Then eject the .dmg.