Sending out CAD files SECURELY... Need Advice...

[spacescape]

We usually send out blue prints to the vender that is manufacturing a part for us stating "RETURN TO XXXXX WHEN DELIVERING JOB". However, we have a new breed of people at our company who are now asking for 8-1/2 x 11 or 11 x 17 then scan it in on our copier to create a PDF (Creating the PDF from the copier). The owner isn't too happy about this. The head of engineering is pretty ticked off.

I've been asked "IF" we can securely send out a CAD file, PDF file, etc. that would allow them to open the file for 5-7 days, print one copy with a water mark on it, then disable the file so it could not be opened. I was considering setting up a PRINT TO PDF out of CAD w/ a unique password every time.

Anyone have any advice on how to handle this? This would be for Windows 2000 systems.

Thanks!
Bill

[M A V I C]

There's some info here: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/pd...ing_sb.pdf

Add document security and control to better protect proprietary designs

With Acrobat 3D Version 8 advanced security features, such as password protection, encryption, and digital signatures, manufacturers can better protect sensitive designs inside and outside the firewall — both online and offline. To further safeguard sensitive information, engineering project managers can enhance document control with Adobe LiveCycle Policy Server software by creating security policies for Adobe PDF documents. These policies include revoking document access and preventing document copying, printing, forwarding, and more even after the documents have been distributed beyond the corporate firewall.

[Paul F.]

Sounds like a pretty tall order... but if there IS a way, I'ld bet that Acrobat will be part of it.

[spacescape]

Thanks for the Acrobat 3D version 8 information. That looks like it could work good.

[Monster]

but once it's been opened and printed once, any number of copies can be made from the print?

[shadow]

I'm a little confused... what information "hole" do you think you are protecting against now that the files are digital?

- Shadow