Introduction

One popular way to open PDF files is to use the SuperNova and Dolphin ScreenReader Scan and Read feature. This feature enables you to convert and open a PDF document in a variety of apps. 

Scan and Read is available with all SuperNova editions supporting speech.

Reading time: 2 minutes approx.

Video

Open a PDF with Scan and Read

The SuperNova and Dolphin ScreenReader Scan and Read feature converts a PDF to a more accessible format and enables you to choose the program in which you want to view the output.

To scan and read a PDF file:

1. Do one of the following:
   • From the SuperNova or Dolphin ScreenReader Control Panel, select the "Media" page, and choose the "Open file" button.
   • From the SuperNova or Dolphin ScreenReader Control Panel, open the "Media" menu, open the "Scan and Read" submenu, and select "From files" (ALT + M, S, F).
   • Enter Layered Hotkey Mode, open the "Scan and Read" layer, and select "From file" (CAPS LOCK + SPACEBAR, O, F).
     
2. Select the file you want to convert.
3. In the "Scan and Read from file" dialog box, review and adjust the options you want to change, for example, change the name of the file to be created or what program you want to view your document in following the conversion.
4. When done, choose the "OK" button. A message window will show the process of the conversion. When complete, the document will open in your chosen program.

You can choose to read the converted file in the following programs:

• SuperNova Doc Reader.
• Microsoft Word (must be installed on your computer).
• Text editor.
• Dolphin EasyReader.

Or you can choose to send your scanned document directly to Google Drive. The first-time you add a file to Google Drive, you will be asked to enter your Google Account credentials. Once authorised, these credentials will be securely saved, making it easier for you to add files in the future.

You can disable access to your Google Drive in the future by selecting the "Revoke access to Google Drive" button in the SuperNova and Dolphin ScreenReader "Scan and Read Settings" dialog box (ALT + M, S, R).

The other options available in the "Scan and Read Settings" dialog box include choosing the scanning language, column preservation, and setting a default folder for your scanned documents.

Tip: Choosing to convert to Word using "Just formatting" creates a more screen reader accessible document. The alternative method, which preserves the layout, uses the more precise, but less accessible, application of Word Text Boxes to position images and text on the page.