Hi everyone,

Does anyone know how to search a PDF document for a specific word?
I have found a class file which can do search in a PDF file but some times it wont return the correct results.

I have attch the files so if anyone like to modify that class file and make it work please go ahead. Actually this class is not written by me but the author is giving the full rights to anyone who like to modify his class.

Well actually I need ur guys comments on the below matter, I really appreciate if everyone can post their comment on this.

I have to do a search module, where ppl can search for PDF files by giving search key words. Well to do this i have two options,

  1. when admin upload the PDF file, ask him to enter keywords related to the PDF file contents and store it in a table so when ever a client search for a PDF i can search that table and display the results.

*The fastast option that i can think of but because it dont search the file contents the search is not 100% accurate.

  1. Read the PDF files individually and search the keyword in that file contents and display the results.

Still couldn`t find a stable PDF file search but Im sure it can be done.
I have more that 200+ PDF files, so is it gonner be slow if i use this option?
*What will happen many uses open the same file at same time? will the file crash?

Thies are the only options i can think of. Please if anyone have a better idea post ur comments. All the comments are welcome.

Thanx in advance,

Regards,
Niroshan

    You could use HTDIG - which I believe reads PDF's and is a standalone search engine - which can be accessed via a php wrapper:

    www.htdig.org
    http://www.devshed.com/c/a/PHP/Search-This

    As its a standalone search engine - it creates a database (usually done via a cron job) and searches against the database. This means its very fast and the cron job will keep it upto date.

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