PostScript
A PS file is a PostScript page description language document created by Adobe in 1984. PostScript uses a stack-based programming model to describe text, vector graphics, and raster images for printing and display.
This format is not currently supported for conversion in FileDex.
Common questions
What is a PS file?
A PS file is a PostScript document that describes page layout, text, and graphics using a stack-based programming language developed by Adobe in 1984.
How do I open a PS file?
You can open PS files with Ghostscript, GSview, Adobe Acrobat Distiller, or most Linux document viewers like Evince and Okular.
How do I convert PS to PDF?
Use Ghostscript with the command ps2pdf input.ps output.pdf, or open the PS file in a viewer that supports export to PDF.
What makes .PS special
PostScript was the first device-independent page description language, allowing documents to be rendered identically on any PostScript-compatible printer or display. It operates as a full Turing-complete programming language with control flow, variables, and procedures, making it far more powerful than simple markup formats. PostScript Level 2 (1991) added color separation, composite fonts, and improved memory management, while Level 3 (1997) introduced smooth shading and better PDF interoperability. Although PDF has largely replaced PostScript for document exchange, PS files remain essential in professional printing workflows and prepress pipelines. Many modern printers still accept PostScript input, and tools like Ghostscript provide robust interpretation and conversion capabilities.
Continue reading — full technical deep dive
Technical reference
- MIME Type
application/postscript- Developer
- Adobe Systems
- Year Introduced
- 1984
- Open Standard
- Yes