Working with PDF layers (OCGs) using JavaScript

With the introduction of PDF version 1.5 came the concept of Layers. Layers, or as they are more formally known as Optional Content Groups (OCGs), refers to sections of content in a PDF document that can be selectively viewed or hidden by document authors or consumers. This capability is useful in CAD drawings, layered artwork, maps, multi-language documents etc.

PDF OCG (Optional Content Groups) dictionary represents a collection of graphic objects that can be made visible or invisible. Any graphic content of the PDF can be made optional, including page contents, XObjects, and annotations.

Apryse SDK benefits include:

  • Extract and render PDF layers (also known as Optional Content Groups, or OCGs)
  • A simple to use API to add layers in new PDF documents
  • Ability to remove or modify/edit existing PDF layers (OCGs)
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Demo

Layer (OCG) Separation Demo

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Show/hide layers
To show or hide a PDF layer in a document.

Adding a layer
To add a PDF layer in a new document.

Extract a layer
To extract a PDF layer from a document.

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