.PM4 File Extension
PageMaker 4 Document
| Developer | Adobe Systems |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Page Layout Files |
| Format | .PM4 |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an PM4 file?
The .PM4 file extension is associated with Adobe PageMaker 4, a desktop publishing software that was popular in the 1990s. It is used to store documents created within this software, containing layouts, text, images, and formatting instructions for printed publications.
More Information.
PageMaker 4 was released in 1993, building on its predecessor’s capabilities to offer improved layout tools, support for more fonts and graphics formats, and enhanced publishing features. The .PM4 format was designed to save projects in a way that preserved their layout and design elements.
Origin Of This File.
Adobe PageMaker 4 was developed by Aldus Corporation, which Adobe acquired in 1994. It was widely used for designing and producing printed materials such as newsletters, brochures, and magazines.
File Structure Technical Specification.
- Format: Binary
- Content: Contains text, graphics, formatting, and layout instructions.
- Compatibility: Designed for use with Adobe PageMaker 4 on Windows and Macintosh platforms.
How to Convert the File?
Windows:
- Using Adobe Acrobat:
- Open the .PM4 file in Adobe PageMaker 4 or later.
- Print the document to Adobe PDF printer installed on your system.
- Save the resulting PDF file.
- Using Online Conversion Tools:
- Use online document conversion services like Zamzar or Online Convert.
- Upload your .PM4 file and select the desired output format (e.g., PDF, DOCX).
- Download the converted file once the conversion is complete.
Linux:
- Wine (For Running Windows Applications):
- Install Wine, a compatibility layer for running Windows applications on Linux.
- Install Adobe PageMaker 4 or later using Wine.
- Open the .PM4 file in PageMaker and use the print-to-PDF method as described for Windows.
- LibreOffice:
- Open LibreOffice Writer.
- Import the .PM4 file into LibreOffice Writer.
- Save the document in a more widely compatible format like ODT (Open Document Text).
macOS:
- Adobe Acrobat:
- Open the .PM4 file in Adobe PageMaker 4 or later on macOS.
- Print the document to Adobe PDF printer.
- Save the resulting PDF file.
- Use of Virtual Machines or Emulators:
- Install a Windows virtual machine (e.g., using VirtualBox or VMware Fusion) on macOS.
- Install Adobe PageMaker within the virtual machine and convert the file using Windows methods.
Android and iOS:
Converting .PM4 files directly on mobile platforms like Android and iOS is challenging due to the lack of native applications and compatibility issues.
Typically, it requires a two-step process involving a desktop or online conversion tool:
- Upload to Cloud or Email:
- Upload the .PM4 file to a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox from your mobile device.
- Alternatively, email the file to yourself.
- Conversion on Desktop:
- Access the cloud storage or email attachment from a desktop computer.
- Use Adobe PageMaker or online conversion tools to convert the .PM4 file to a more accessible format like PDF.
- Download the converted file back to your mobile device for viewing.
Others:
For other operating systems or environments not covered (e.g., specialized systems), conversion may require:
- Using virtualization or emulation software to run Adobe PageMaker.
- Using online conversion services accessible from any browser.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Comprehensive layout tools suitable for print publishing.
- Support for a wide range of fonts and graphics formats.
- Established as a standard in desktop publishing during its time.
Disadvantages:
- Obsolete format not supported by modern versions of Adobe software.
- Compatibility issues with newer operating systems and applications.
- Limited interoperability with current file formats.
How to Open PM4?
Open In Windows
Requires Adobe PageMaker 4 or later versions running on Windows.
Open In Linux
Limited support; may require emulation or virtualization of Windows environment.
Open In MAC
Requires Adobe PageMaker 4 or later versions running on macOS.
Open In Android
Not directly supported; requires conversion to a compatible format for viewing.
Open In IOS
Not directly supported; requires conversion to a compatible format for viewing.
Open in Others
Limited support; viewing may require conversion or emulation of older software environments.
