Convert CDF to PDF

What are the CDF files, and where do they come from?

The Computable Document Format (CDF) is a file format created by Wolfram Research that is mainly used for interactive content and rich, computational documents. It is linked to Wolfram technologies such as Mathematica, a potent computational program. CDFs are made to hold both traditional document elements (text, images) and dynamic, interactive elements (sliders, animations, and interactive visualizations).

They can also contain executable Mathematica code, which permits real-time computation within the document. They are mostly used in technical, educational, and research fields to create dynamic reports, presentations, and instructional materials.

Is it possible to print Wolfram CDF files in PDF format?

You can export .cdf files to PDF format, but it only allows you to examine the static view (which prints as a snapshot of the content as it was presented at the time of printing); no calculations or interactive features are carried out.

How do I print CDF content in PDF format?

You will always require software from Wolfram Research, either the flagship product Mathematica, or at least the free Wolfram CDF Player.

If you have access to Mathematica, you can convert a CDF file to a PDF with just one click of the relevant button because the program has a direct "Export to PDF" function.

For users without Mathematica, you have to download the Wolfram CDF Player. While the tool does not support a dedicated PDF export function, it allows printing and thus the use of virtual PDF printer. In new versions of Windows you have always virtual PDF printer installed and can find you as 'Microsoft Print to PDF' in list of your printers. If you don't have access to this functionality, you can search and download one of the many available virtual PDF printers available on the Internet.