The first method of conversion from PowerPoint 97,2000,2003 (.ppt) or PowerPoint 2007 (.pptx) in our PowerPoint convert zone doesn’t involve any installed software - always handy in the corporate environment or for when you’re using someone else’s PC. The wonders of cloud computing now extend into the world of file conversion and providing you have access to an email address can get hold of conversions in seconds, for free (always a good thing!).

www.zamzar.com is a free online file converter (in beta - obviously - but don’t let that put you off - most things are.) I’m not overly sure about the chameleons, however the important thing is that it works! It really is as simple as following Steps 1>4:

There’s no need to login, and sadly for Zamzar - I’m really struggling to understand why you’d pay for any of the upgraded editions - so don’t be tempted to upgrade at this moment unless you see yourself becoming a power user.

In our example, we are converting a PPT or PPTX file into a pdf.

Step 1: Click the browse button and select the PowerPoint file you would like to convert. Depending on the size of the file, you will then see it uploading. Don’t navigate away from the page - or it will stop the upload.

Step 2: As soon as you select the file in step 1, the drop down in Step 2 changes to provide the ’sensible’ options for conversion. Select .PDF in our case.

Step 3: Enter your email address. I’ve had no cause to worry about spam - however if you’re worried - be careful with the address you use.

Step 4: Click ‘convert’. Not difficult really!

In my testing experience, the notification mail comes through almost immediately, although I suspect for larger files, it will maybe take a few minutes, depending on server load.

The email will look something like:

Simple as 1,2,3,4...

Simply click the long link at the bottom of the mail and hey preso - you’ve a nicely formatted PDF for distribution.

Simply. Easy. Free - the way I like it Business PowerPoint users will hopefully think the same.

Method #2 in the Powerpoint convert zone looks at installing software to do the same job…