PDF Export Errors

PDF Export Errors

PDF exports in CrownSync Playbooks are generated entirely server-side. This page covers common issues that can occur during PDF generation and how to resolve them.

Large Playbooks Timing Out

Very large playbooks with extensive customised content may occasionally time out during PDF generation. If you receive a timeout error:

• Try again— Temporary server load may have caused the timeout. Wait a minute and retry the export.
• Reduce content size— If a playbook includes very large embedded images or extensive custom content, consider optimising image sizes or splitting content across sections.
• Export individual phases— If a full playbook export consistently times out, try exporting individual phases separately (if this option is available).

Browser Popup Blockers

Some browsers treat PDF downloads as popups and may block them. If you click Export PDF and nothing happens:

1. Check your browser's address bar for a popup blocked notification (usually a small icon near the URL)
2. Click the notification and allow popups from pb.crownsync.uk
3. Retry the export

You can also pre-emptively allow popups from pb.crownsync.uk in your browser settings to prevent this issue in future.

Missing Fonts

PDF exports use the Geist Sans font family. In rare cases, fonts may not render correctly in the generated PDF. If you notice font issues:

• The issue is likely server-side and not related to fonts installed on your computer
• Try regenerating the PDF — transient rendering issues sometimes resolve on retry
• If the issue persists across multiple exports, contact support with a screenshot showing the font rendering problem

Classification Marking Issues

If classification markings (OFFICIAL, OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE, CONFIDENTIAL) are not appearing correctly in your exported PDFs:

• Verify your classification marking is configured in PDF Branding settings
• Check that the marking has been saved (not just selected) on the branding page
• Use the Preview feature in PDF Branding to confirm the marking appears as expected before generating a full export

Cannot Find Downloaded PDF

If the export appears to complete but you cannot find the downloaded file:

• Check your browser's default download folder (usually the Downloads directory)
• Look in your browser's download history (usually accessible via Ctrl + J on Windows/Linux or Cmd + Shift + J on macOS)
• If your organisation uses a managed browser with download restrictions, check with your IT team

Batch Export Issues

Batch exports of many playbooks take longer to generate than individual exports. If a batch export fails:

• Try exporting fewer playbooks at once
• Use the ZIP archive format instead of combined PDF, as individual files are generated independently and less likely to fail as a group
• Ensure your browser remains open and active while the export is generating. Some browsers throttle background tabs, which can interfere with download notifications.