Overview
Check for Updates... contacts the Mapsoft update server and tells you whether a newer version of the plug-in is available. If one is, it can download the installer and start the update for you. The check runs in its own window (provided by the WinSparkle update framework), so Acrobat stays responsive while it works.
Updates are also checked automatically in the background from time to time; use this command when you want an immediate answer.
How it works
- Choose Check for Updates... from the menu. A small update window opens and contacts the server.
- If you are up to date, the window says so — there is nothing else to do.
- If a newer version exists, the window shows its version and release notes, and offers to Install update, Skip this version or Remind me later.
- If you choose to install, the installer downloads, its digital signature is verified, and you are asked to close Acrobat so the plug-in file can be replaced. Acrobat can be reopened as soon as the installer finishes.
Update channels
Two release channels are available, chosen on the General tab of the plug-in's Preferences dialog:
| Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| Stable | Production releases only. This is the default, and the right choice for almost everyone. |
| Beta | Pre-release builds for early testing. Betas may contain features that are still changing; switch back to Stable at any time. |
The same Preferences tab also lets you turn the periodic automatic check on or off.
If the check fails
- No internet connection (or a firewall/proxy blocking
mapsoft.com): the update window reports that it could not reach the server. Nothing is changed on your machine; try again when you are online. - Corporate networks: the check downloads over HTTPS from
mapsoft.com. If your IT department restricts downloads, you can always install updates manually from the Mapsoft website instead.
Every update is verified against a digital signature before it is installed. An update that fails verification is refused — the plug-in will never install an installer that does not come from Mapsoft.