For those frequent times when you need to convert a file from one format into another without scouring the web for a program that does it for you, Zamzar might be the answer to your problems. Zamzar is a free online conversion tool which allows you to upload your file and convert it into almost anything. Zamzar’s list of compatible file types is pretty impressive, and with audio and video conversion thrown into the mix it is unlikely that you won’t find the conversion you are after. Having converted the file for you, it will email you the download link so that you can retrieve it.
The free service does not require any sign up which is an added bonus, but it does have its limitations. For starters, you are restricted to 100 megabytes (as opposed to 1000 megabytes for paid accounts) and the level of service plus the speed of response might vary significantly depending on the load on their servers. In our tests some files were available for download within a few minutes, others within a few hours. Free service users will only have a single day within which to retrieve their file after which time it will be deleted.
We were particularly impressed with Zamzar’s ability to convert pdf files to document files, and the service did a good job of preserving table and text structures. We also liked the ability to convert .docx, .pptx and .xlsx into formats that can be read and edited in programs other than Microsoft Office 2007. Another nice touch is the ability to convert Microsoft Publisher files into .doc files, again, allowing you to work with them without being locked into Microsoft software. (especially useful for Mac and Linux users)
If you are prepared to deal with an unpredictable and sometimes quirky service, Zamzar is a must try for any annoying ad-hoc conversion chores you might come across.
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