.NET XPS to POTM Conversion API

What is XPS file format?

XPS stands for XML Paper Specification and is a type of file format developed by Microsoft. It is an open standard for fixed-layout documents and is an alternative to Adobe’s PDF file format. XPS files are designed to be a simpler format than PDF, allowing greater compatibility with a range of operating systems and devices. XPS files are structured documents, meaning they are composed of multiple parts such as metadata, content and layout. This makes them easier to display and print across different operating systems. XPS is commonly used to store print function settings, so documents maintain a constant appearance regardless of the device that prints them. The XPS file format is also popular in document archiving, as it is less likely to become corrupted than other file formats. It also supports advanced features such as encryption and digital signature, allowing documents to be securely shared and transmitted. In recent years, XPS has become less popular, as the PDF format has become more widely adopted. However, it remains an important document format for businesses and organizations, as it provides greater stability and control over document integrity.

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.