CHM help file creator for desktop software that still ships F1

Build compiled HTML Help with a topic tree, search, and context IDs — and keep the same content ready for web help and PDF.

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Context IDs

Map files

CHM

UI capture

When a CHM file is the right deliverable

Users expect F1 / local help inside Windows applications.

Help file

You need a single portable help file to ship with the installer.

Offline access matters (plants, field machines, locked networks).

You still want a web manual for the marketing site — from the same source.

One project → the format your channel needs

1

Compiled HTML Help (CHM)

TOC, index, search, hyperlinks — bundled for desktop distribution and context-sensitive calls from your app.

2

Online / HTML help

Publish to your site or intranet with navigation and search — no custom help stack required.

3

PDF & DOCX

Hand clients a printable manual or editable export without maintaining a second document.

Wire help to the UI your users are staring at

Help Context IDs

Assign IDs / aliases per topic. Generate map files (.h, .vb, .inc) for integration.

UI capture for Windows apps

Annotate dialogs and controls so CHM topics match the real product.

From blank project to a CHM you can ship

CHM help file creator FAQ

What is a CHM help file?

A CHM file is a compiled HTML Help package used widely with Windows applications — including table of contents, search, and context-sensitive help.

Can Dr.Explain create CHM files?

Yes. Author topics in Dr.Explain and export compiled CHM, with support for Help Context IDs and map files.

Can I also publish web help from the same project?

Yes. Single-source publishing covers HTML web help, PDF, and DOCX alongside CHM.

25

A quarter century of expertise

Over the past 25 years, we've grown from a small team into experts in our field. While we build on the wisdom of the past, we are equally focused on embracing new technologies — including AI — to keep our tool at the forefront of modern user documentation.

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