| Conversion Tools | |
by Jacci Howard Bear
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Just as travel in another country is easier if you learn their language, learning the language of DTP -- including measurement systems -- can make your DTP work easier. The tools here make that even easier by instantly providing equivalent measures or giving you the numbers you need to do your own calculations.
Online conversion programs
When you just need a few conversions every now and then, these online tools come to your aid. They're quick and easy, but do require that you be online to use them.
Digital Converter
Choose 'length' from the first pull-down then select the units to convert from and to (including inches, picas, points, and many more) then put in the number. There's no button to push. Displays the result in red. Or use the older form-based converter.Science Made Simple Linear Conversions
For a large number of linear options, this simple online tools accepts a number then you convert from one measure to another from a pull-down list of dozens of measurements. Good for more obscure units of measure.
Software conversion tools
If you frequently need to do calculations and measurement conversions or you just prefer the convenience of having a tool at your disposal even when offline, try out one of these programs.
ConvertUnits Pro for Macintosh
Metric conversion utility has hundreds of units of measure including "compound units" such as feet, inches. Shareware.Master Converter for Windows
It's sole purpose is to help you convert measurements -- all kinds. Come pre-configured for over 600 different units of measure and can be customized. Shareware.Measures for Windows
23 categories for converting measurements of all types. This is the Win 95/98/NT version but a Win 3.1 version is also available. Shareware.
SmartRulers
Not software but a useful tool nonetheless, these flexible rulers contain tons of useful information such as points scale, line spacing scale, type-sizers, rule weights, conversion tables, proofreader's marks, and bullets. See a picture, order online from the ideabook site.
Printable conversion charts
Do your own conversions or keep a handy reference chart nearby.
Fraction to Decimal Conversion Chart
Can you remember that 9/64=.140625 or that .0625 is 1/16? Print this text file, provided at the Redding IBM/PCUG DTP SIG Web site.Quick Reference for Inches, Millimeters, Points, Picas
Some common conversions and other helpful measurement terms in a plain text file. From this site.
More measures
Want a better understanding of the differences between measurement systems? Try this helpful metric chart [offsite link] that shows the metric equivalent for acres, inches, yards, and more. Are millimeters driving you mad? Snapped your ruler in half in frustration? For something completely different, yet vaguely familiar, try this humorous take on metric conversions [offsite link].
