> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.enercalc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.enercalc.com/sel-faq/using-the-software/general-operation/pdfs-as-external-items-in-a-pr.md).

# Issues with PDFs as External Items in a Project File

How to fix PDFs inserted as External Items misbehaving by adjusting Adobe Reader and default PDF settings.

## I have some PDFs inserted as External Items in my ENERCALC Project Files. Why are these now misbehaving?

It probably has to do with a setting in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. Fortunately the fix is easy. In Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, go to Edit > Preferences. In the Security (Enhanced) category, deselect the option to "Enable Protected Mode at startup". This should resolve the issue, and PDFs as External Items should now behave as expected.

## I can't view PDFs in my project file, regardless of whether they are linked or embedded. What now?

Check to see which program your system is set to use as the default for PDF files. If it is Bluebeam, try setting the default to Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

To install Adobe Acrobat Reader DC: [https://helpx.adobe.com/acrobat/kb/install-reader-dc-windows.html](https://helpx.adobe.com/acrobat/kb/install-reader-dc-windows.html,)


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