How to Read External XML Files with JavaScript in Adobe Reader
Question details
The user needs to understand how to access and import external XML data using JavaScript within Adobe Reader.
- Product
- Adobe Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Using JavaScript to fetch and read external XML files inside a PDF document.
- Observed behavior
- Requires the correct Acrobat JavaScript methods and configuration to bypass or comply with Reader's strict security restrictions for external file access.
Before running external data scripts, review Adobe's Trust Manager settings and ensure you have the necessary privileges enabled to allow cross-domain or local file access.
Use Acrobat JavaScript API to Import XML Data
Leverage Adobe's specific JavaScript methods to securely access external XML files within Reader.
Standard web JavaScript (like XMLHttpRequest) is restricted within Adobe Reader due to sandbox security. To interact with external XML files, you must use Adobe's proprietary Acrobat JavaScript API.
Executing these methods often requires elevated privileges. Scripts may need to be executed from a folder-level trusted context, or the PDF itself must be certified and trusted.
Consult the official Adobe Acrobat JavaScript API Reference, specifically looking for methods related to importing data objects or making HTTP requests, such as the Net.HTTP object.
Open Adobe Reader, go to Edit > Preferences > Security (Enhanced), and add the file or its directory to the 'Privileged Locations' list to allow external file access.
Write your script using Acrobat-supported methods. Ensure you wrap external data calls in try-catch blocks to gracefully handle potential security exception errors triggered by Adobe Reader.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Adobe Reader block my JavaScript from reading external files?
Adobe Reader uses a strict security sandbox to protect users from malicious code. By default, it blocks scripts from silently reading local files or making cross-domain network requests unless the document is explicitly trusted by the user.
Can I use standard XMLHttpRequest to fetch XML in a PDF?
No, standard web APIs like XMLHttpRequest are not available in the Acrobat JavaScript environment. You must use Adobe's specific API methods, such as Net.HTTP.request.
How do I trust a PDF document to run external scripts?
You can trust a document by adding its source folder to the 'Privileged Locations' in the Enhanced Security preferences, placing the script in the trusted application JavaScripts folder, or by having the document digitally signed by a trusted certificate.
