PAF is software developed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to record your Family History.  Personal Ancestral File is known as PAF. 

There are many software packages available today all with different features and costs. I started using PAF when it was a DOS programme and went away from it as other system can about.  Allan  have tried at least 4 different systems and have now come back to using PAF.

The best news about PAF is that it can be downloaded free from FamilySearch or you can purchase it for about $15 from the Church Distribution Centre at Carlingford. 

An important factor that must be considered in any software you buy is does it have the provision to transfer files to other systems.  Check that it has the GEDCOM feature.

Allan Murrin teaches PAF Beginners Classes and Advance Classes.

Following is an explanation of PAF and the features.  

Item #77065999
For FREE download of PAF from FAMILYSEARCH click here

Personal Ancestral File 5.2.18.0 - Multi-Language (9.7 MB)
Personal Ancestral File 5.2 (build 5.2.18.0) is a Windows®-based version of one of the most widely used genealogical management programs for home computers. The software program can be downloaded free from the Internet. PAF 5.2 does not provide genealogical data. Instead, it helps users organize their family history records. It can produce, either on screen or on paper, family histories, pedigree charts, family group records, and other reports to help users in their search for missing ancestors.

This version includes changes to the individual record to accommodate the wide variety of naming conventions used throughout the world. This version will convert PAF 3.0 and 4.0 data files to its improved file format. PAF 5.2 is also available on compact disc and includes Personal Ancestral File Companion which allows users to produce additional reports and charts.

Software on this disc is in English, German, Swedish, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Portuguese.

Access the PAF website for more information.

A list of changes, bug fixes, and feature enhancements from version to version is available.

Features allow users to:

  • Type each person's information only once.
  • Link individuals to families.
  • New: Type names and places using characters from any language.
  • New: Create templates to customize data entry.
  • Print pedigrees, family groups, or lists.
  • Track your research sources.
  • Use photos, sound clips, video, and notes to add interest and value.
  • Search, find, and correct information.
  • View family information in different ways.
  • Match/merge duplicate entries.
  • Filter searches.
  • Share your information with others.
  • New: View screens and print reports in either English, German, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, or Swedish.

 

System Requirements:

  • Windows® 95B, 98, ME, NT 4.0, 2000, XP or Windows® 95A with Microsoft Internet Explorer®
  • Pentium PC or iMac with a Windows emulator
  • 32 MB memory (64 MB recommended)
  • 32 MB to 72 MB hard-disk space
  • 256-color display adapter supporting at least 800 x 600 screen resolution
  • Windows® compatible printer
  • Optional: Internet access, mouse

 For FREE download of PAF click here