Convert CHM to POTM in Java

What is CHM file format?

CHM (Compiled HTML) is a file format developed by Microsoft to store HTML-based help files. It is useful for creating electronic books, technical manuals, documentation, and e-learning material. CHM files are stored in a compressed form, making them smaller in size and easier to distribute. The files contain HTML documents, images, JavaScript, and other elements. They can be opened using several Microsoft applications, such as Windows Help and HTML Help Workshop. CHM files are often used to create richly formatted digital publications, such as those used in CD-ROMs, DVDs, or USB sticks. They can be distributed online, either as a single file or as part of an online application. CHM files are also becoming more popular as companies are moving away from printed materials and toward digital formats. CHM files are versatile and easy to create and use, making them a popular choice for creating documentation, manuals, and other digital publications. The CHM format also supports various search and indexing options, making it easy for users to quickly find what they are looking for.

What is POTM file format?

A POTM file refers to a macro-enabled presentation template created using Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program used for creating slide show presentations. It includes default images, slide templates, macros, and formatting. POTM files are commonly used by PowerPoint users to create multiple .PPTM files with consistent designs and macro settings.

POTM files offer additional functionality compared to typical presentation files, as they support macros. Macros are script-like functions that automate repetitive tasks within PowerPoint. Users can record macros that can be replayed to perform specific actions and assign them to buttons or keystrokes for convenient execution. To record a macro, users can select View → Macros in PowerPoint.

For general presentation creation, users can save their files as .PPTX or .POTX files. However, if they want to create a template that incorporates macros, they can save their presentation as a POTM file.

It’s worth noting that POTM files were introduced by Microsoft when they released Microsoft Office 2007.

To open a POTM file, Microsoft PowerPoint (2007 or later) is the recommended application for full support of presentation formatting and embedded macros on both Windows and macOS. Alternative applications like Apache OpenOffice Impress, Kingsoft Presentation, and Apple Keynote can also open POTM files, but some formatting and macros may not be fully preserved. For Mac users looking to view a POTM file without editing, Apple Preview (bundled with macOS) or Google Drive, a free cloud storage service, can be used.

Online platforms like Google Slides allow users to upload POTM files for viewing, editing, and conversion. However, it’s important to note that Google Slides does not support macros.

To convert a POTM file, various presentation applications including Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, and OpenOffice Impress offer conversion capabilities. In Microsoft PowerPoint for Windows and Mac, users can select File → Save As and choose from formats such as .PPTX, .PPT, .PDF, .ODP, .XPS, .MP4, .WMV, .JPEG, and .PNG to convert the POTM file to their desired format.