A search feature on PDF without using scripts

Question

Hello,

I want to create a search box on PDF where a keycode is typed on a text box and a relevant info is displayed on another box.

I have previously achieved this using a script supplied from this thread but it turns out scripts aren't fully supported on mobile devices.

Is there another way for me to achieve this without using scripts?

So a user enters a code on a text box i.e. 'Fruit'

Then the other text box will be pre-populated with the relevant info i.e. 'Apple'

TIA

Thom Parker · Accepted Answer

The answer is no. Complex interactive features like searching a dataset for keywords can only be done using a script. The sad fact is that the Acrobat Mobile viewer is weak. This functionality could be setup for the Readdle Mobile PDF viewer, which has a better JS model. But scripting, and most other interactive PDF features are just not a thing for most viewers for mobile and browsers.

This may change in the future, but right now

AnandSri · Answer

Hello @studiom50222188!

I hope you are doing well, and thanks for reaching out.

Unfortunately, Adobe Acrobat does not currently support conditional logic or dynamic field population without JavaScript. All interactive behaviors, like auto-filling based on user input, require scripting. This limitation is especially noticeable on mobile platforms, where JavaScript support is restricted or inconsistent.

Alternative Approaches You Can Consider:
1. Dropdown-Based Autofill (Still Requires JavaScript): You can use a dropdown instead of a free-text input. This allows you to control the values and reduce errors. A script in the dropdown’s Validate or Calculate tab can populate the second field based on the selection. This method is more mobile-friendly but still not script-free. See this relevant community discussion.

2. Pre-Filled Static Forms
If your use case involves a limited set of keycodes and values, you could create multiple versions of the form—each with the relevant info already filled in—and let users choose the correct one manually. This avoids scripting but sacrifices interactivity.

If mobile compatibility is a must, converting your form into a web-based solution (using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript) would offer the best user experience with the functionality you described.

I hope this helps.

Thanks,

Anand Sri.

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