pdf2svg converts PDF documents into SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) format. It leverages the Poppler PDF rendering library and the Cairo graphics library to achieve this conversion. The project addresses the need for generating vector-based representations of PDFs, which are ideal for scalability and high-quality rendering across different screen sizes. The core functionality focuses on accurately translating PDF content into its SVG equivalent.
pdf2svg offers a simple command-line interface for quick and straightforward PDF to SVG conversion. It supports converting individual pages or all pages of a PDF in a single command. The project provides pre-compiled binaries for Linux and Windows, streamlining the installation process. It's a lightweight solution that doesn't require complex dependencies beyond Poppler and Cairo.
- Command-line tool: Provides a simple command-line interface for PDF to SVG conversion.
- Multi-platform: Includes pre-compiled binaries for Linux and Windows.
- Batch conversion: Supports converting individual pages or all pages of a PDF.
- Dependency management: Relies on Poppler and Cairo libraries.
- Scalable output: Generates SVG, which is a scalable vector graphic format.
The project has been maintained for several years, with the last commit in March 2025 indicating ongoing, albeit infrequent, activity. Documentation is minimal, but the README provides basic usage instructions. The project's stability relies on the maturity of the underlying Poppler and Cairo libraries.
pdf2svg is beneficial for developers needing to generate vector graphics from PDF documents. It's useful for creating scalable icons, diagrams, or illustrations from existing PDFs. It offers a practical alternative to manual PDF-to-SVG conversion or more complex, heavyweight tools.