Serve a PDF preview

This exercise introduces you to OL Connect Automate by walking through the creation of a simple flow that serves a personalized PDF preview to the browser. You’ll build an HTTP endpoint in Node-RED that triggers PDF generation using an OL Connect template.

The flow outputs the content of a Print section from the template in PDF format, served directly via the HTTP response. You’ll use your browser to trigger the endpoint and view the generated PDF.

This example builds on basic OL Connect Automate and OL Connect concepts, and is also included as a sample flow in the OL Connect Automate package.

Screen showing the this flow in the workspace, and the output - a personalized PDF.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure the following are in place:

  • OL Connect Automateis installed.
    This includes the Node-RED environment with the OL Connect Automate nodes.

  • OL Connectsoftware is installed
    The OL Connect Server and OL Connect Designer must be available on your system.

  • Download the template.
    You'll need the sample template file: Certificate of Completion.OL-template

Note: Before starting, ensure you’re familiar with the essential concepts of OL Connect Automate and Node-RED, including editor features and flow design. See Documentation, Training, and Support for links to getting started topics and information about using samples and tutorials. Nodes shown in flow example images may display their entered names, set in the node Properties panel, instead of their default names.

Continue to Build flow to serve a PDF preview and Add template to serve a PDF preview.