Frequently Asked Questions About Downloading SAE Documents
1.What SAE documents are available for downloading in .PDF format?
Technical papers, all SAE Ground Vehicle Standards, all Aerospace Materials Specifications and Aerospace Standards are available for downloading. Papers from meetings are available for downloading the first day of the meeting.
2. Can I share .PDF files I purchase from SAE with my co-workers, or print out copies for them?
No. When you download a document, you have agreed to the license that stipulates that the .PDF file is for your use only on one computer. You may not distribute copies in any form, print or electronic.
3. Can I customize the .PDF file or use portions of it in other publications?
No. SAE documents are copyrighted and cannot be copied or altered, in part or in whole.
4. How long does it take to download a file?
Download time depends on several factors: file size (this is listed for each downloadable document), your computer, the speed of your Internet connection, and Internet traffic. Downloading a document may take less than a minute or significantly longer, depending on any of these factors.
5. Do I have to download my document immediately after I fill out the order form?
No, but we suggest that you do. You have 24 hours from the time you order the document to download the .PDF file to your computer. We provide you with this window because some documents can be big files, especially if they contain graphics, and you may wish to wait until a time of day when there is less web traffic, or when you can afford to dedicate your computer to this task.
6. What if I don’t have the Adobe Acrobat Reader?
You can download a free copy here.
7. Can I order print publications at the same time I download a document?
Yes, you can mix downloads, fax orders, or mail orders in the same “shopping cart.” SAE will process the print orders as we normally do, and you will proceed to the downloading instructions to get your .PDF files.
8. Can I be billed for downloaded documents?
No. The cost of all downloaded documents must be prepaid with a credit card or deposit account. In the future SAE may offer subscriptions to the .PDF files.
9. What if I run into difficulty while downloading?
If you encounter problems while trying to download, email SAE Electronic Publishing or call (724) 776-4970.
More details about ordering from SAE are available here.
