Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled answers to common questions based on user feedback and app features. If your question isn't covered, email us at searchable.pdf.converter@gmail.com.

Q: Why is the installer large (~300MB) and requires ~1.3GB of disk space?

A: The app bundles professional-grade AI models (Tesseract for orientation and docTR for adaptive OCR) along with all necessary dependencies (e.g., libraries for PDF handling). This ensures 100% offline functionality - no extra downloads or internet needed. We've optimized it as much as possible while maintaining high accuracy and performance. If space is a concern, consider freeing up storage before installation.

Q: The app crashes on startup or shows a "model loading failed" error - what's wrong?

A: This is typically due to hardware incompatibility. The app requires a modern CPU (2015 or newer with AVX2 support, e.g., Intel i5 5th Gen+ or equivalent AMD). Older processors (like pre-Haswell Intel) lack the instructions needed for the AI engine (PyTorch/docTR). Check your CPU specs in Windows Settings > System > About. If incompatible, we recommend upgrading hardware or using online alternatives. For other crashes, try reinstalling or contacting support with details.

Q: Why did a file fail with "Permission Denied" or similar errors?

A: This often occurs if the input file is open in another program (e.g., Adobe Reader, Microsoft Edge, or a PDF viewer). Close all instances of the file and retry. Other causes could include read-only files or antivirus interference - temporarily disable antivirus or grant permissions. If issues persist, ensure the file isn't corrupted and try a different one for testing.

Q: How does the Free Tier work, and what are its exact limits?

A: The Free Tier is designed for testing and light use. Limits include:

  • Up to 20 files per month (rolling 30 days)
  • Max 5 pages per file
  • Single file processing only (no batches)
  • No CSV audit reports

These limits are enforced locally via an encrypted file (usage.json) - deleting it resets limits but doesn't bypass them. It's great for quick demos, but upgrade to Premium for unlimited access.

Q: What's the difference between Free and Premium, and how do I upgrade?

A: Free is for evaluation with the limits above. Premium (49 Euro one-time) unlocks:

  • Unlimited files/pages
  • Batch processing (handle 100s at once)
  • Resumable/cancellable jobs
  • Detailed CSV audits (with stats like word count, sizes, and times)

To upgrade: Purchase via Gumroad, download the Premium installer, and run it. The app automatically updates your license and shows a "Premium" badge. No data loss from Free.

Q: Does the app support non-English languages, like French accents or German umlauts?

A: The app is optimized for English and Latin-based scripts, with strong accuracy (87-92%) on them. It may not perfectly handle accents/umlauts (e.g., replacing é with e), but basic recognition works. Multi-language improvements are planned for future updates - check Gumroad for releases. For now, test with your files in the Free Tier.

Q: How private is the app - does it collect any data?

A: 100% private: No internet, no telemetry, no uploads. All processing is local on your device. See our Privacy Policy for details. We only receive minimal buyer info (email/name) from Gumroad for transactions - no marketing without consent.

Q: Can I get updates, and how do they work?

A: The Premium license includes lifetime access to v2.x minor updates (e.g., bug fixes) - download from Gumroad. Major versions (e.g., v3) may require separate purchase. Optional 9 Euro/year memberships for ongoing enhancements (e.g., language fixes, size optimizations) are planned - watch for announcements.

Q: What if I need a refund or have support issues?

A: Refunds follow Gumroad's policy (typically within 30 days for valid reasons like incompatibility). Contact Gumroad support first, then us if needed. For app issues, include details like OS version, error messages, and hardware specs. We're committed to helping!

Q: Can the app be hacked or pirated?

A: While protected (e.g., via PyArmor obfuscation), any local software can potentially be modified by advanced users. Doing so violates this EULA and may break functionality. We encourage honest upgrades - your support funds improvements!

Q: What open-source libraries does the app use, and are they safe for commercial use?

A: The app uses only two OCR engines: Tesseract OCR (by Google) and docTR (by Mindee), both under Apache 2.0. This permissive license fully allows commercial distribution, bundling, and sale of the app (no royalties, no copyleft). We include the full license text in the installation folder and on Gumroad.

Q: Do I need to worry about licensing or attribution when using the Premium version?

A: No. The Apache 2.0 licenses are already satisfied by including the license files (which we do). You can use the Premium version for personal or business purposes without any additional obligations.

Q: Why are the AI models so large?

A: The installer bundles pre-trained deep-learning models for Tesseract and docTR. This is what gives the high accuracy and allows the app to work completely offline—no downloads, no internet, forever.

Q: How do I enable GPU acceleration?

A: It is automatic! When the app starts, it checks for an NVIDIA graphics card with CUDA support. If found, it switches to GPU mode automatically. If not, it runs safely on your CPU. You don't need to change any settings.

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