Ebook Compilers - What are They?

You've spent weeks brainstorming, researching and writing the perfect ebook. But it isn't really an ebook until you compile all the text into an easily distributable file.

In this section, we'll focus on the most popular types of ebook compilers and which one is right for you. Currently, the two most common ebook formats are EXE and PDF.

So what's the difference between EXE and PDF ebooks?

EXE - These are self-executable programs composed of several HTML files. The way this works is much like a website. Design a template (or use one of ours), add your text or articles and then add navigation to link all your pages together. When the HTML pages are done, the compiler is used to create a single file. Note that only computers running Windows will be able to open this type of file.

Features:

Because they're self-executable, buyers won't need a separate reader software to open your ebook.
Some compilers also come with a branding tool. This is excellent for viral marketing. For example, webmasters are more likely to distribute a free ebook if they can add their name or affiliate ID somewhere inside. If the content of the ebook is truly valuable, it'll get shared to a lot of visitors. If they like what they read, they might pass it on to a few of their friends. Like a virus, once it's spreading it's hard to stop. That's great news for your bank account if you're the author and that free ebook is promoting your product.
Because they're designed much like a website, certain ebook compilers now support multimedia content like Flash and videos clips. Just remember to keep the file size small if you're going to distribute your work online. If you were to distribute your ebook on CD, then larger multimedia files wouldn't be a problem.

PDF - PDF stands for "Portable Document Format", a file format created by Adobe Systems, Inc. You'll need a special reader software to open this type of file. Thankfully, the Adobe Reader is now being distributed on the majority of new computers.

Most of the time, PDF compilers are installed as a printer drivers. This makes it very easy to use from common word processors and other software. After writing and formatting your ebook, simply click File Print and select the PDF compiler from the list of printers.

PDF files are also compatible with most operating systems, including Mac OS and Linux. Even though most computers run on Windows, there are still a lot of people who prefer the alternatives.

Features:

Compact in size and more secure than Word documents, making it ideal for distribution via the internet.
The ebook's layout will stay the same, regardless of your customer's screen resolution and operating system.
PDF documents are safe and virus free. They are often perceived as more professional than "EXE" ebooks.
Third-party PDF branding software is also available.

Choosing an Ebook Compiler

The right compiler for the job is one that fits your needs and budget. When choosing an ebook compiler, you have to determine what you want to include in your publication and who your target market is.

If you want to include video tutorials or Flash animations, an "EXE" ebook compiler would have the best outcome. If you're writing a technical guide for Macintosh users, then it would make sense to use a "PDF" ebook compiler.

When choosing a compiler, take the time to read the full list of features to make sure it meets all of your needs. There's nothing worst than investing time and money in something that doesn't do the job. Sometimes a demo version is also available for download.

Here are some of the most popular ebook compilers on the market today:

HTML Compilers:

PDF Compilers: