TechNote

Can't convert MS Publisher files (InDesign CS2)

Issue

Adobe InDesign CS2 is unable to open a Microsoft Publisher file.

Solution: Convert the Publisher file to a PageMaker file, and then open the PageMaker file in InDesign.

In PageMaker 7.0.x:

1. Click Start > Programs > Adobe > PageMaker 7.0 > Converter For Microsoft Publisher & QuarkXPress.

2. Choose File > Select Files, and then click Select.

3. Click Convert.

4. In InDesign, choose File > Open to open the new file.

In PageMaker 6.5.x

1. Click Start > Programs > Adobe > PageMaker 6.5 > Microsoft Publisher To PM6.5 Converter.

2. Choose File > Select Files, and then click Select.

3. Click Convert.

4. In InDesign, choose File > Open to open the new file.

Note: Converter for Microsoft Publisher 1.0, which converts Microsoft Publisher 95 and Publisher 97 files, is available as a free download on the Adobe website at www.adobe.com/support/downloads/main.html .

Background information

InDesign is unable to read Microsoft Publisher files. PageMaker includes a utility that is able to convert Publisher files to PageMaker format, which InDesign can open.

The Converter for Microsoft Publisher/QuarkXPress 4.0 can convert documents created with Publisher 98 and Publisher 2000; Converter for Microsoft Publisher 1.5 can convert documents created with Publisher 95 and Publisher 97.