How to Use Your Own API Key With a PDF Editor
To use your own API key with a PDF editor, create a key with your AI provider, paste it into Gold PDF's Gold AI panel, choose a model and press Test connection. Your key stays in a local config file, and Gold PDF sends requests straight to the provider.
Quick steps
- Create an API key in your provider's console (many offer a free tier).
- In Gold PDF press Ctrl+J to open Gold AI.
- Choose the provider and model, paste the key (and account ID for Cloudflare).
- Press OK, then Test connection. A green check with the response time means it works.
- Use Edit or Ask on your document.
Where the key lives
The panel saves the key to a small JSON file on your computer. Open config file lets you edit it by hand. Treat it like a password; do not share it.
Cost and limits
You pay the provider by usage, or use their free tier if available. Rate limits depend on the provider. Pick a cheaper model for simple corrections.
What gets sent
Only the document's text lines and your instruction, when you press Run. See how to edit a PDF using AI.
Frequently asked questions
Where is my API key stored?
In a small JSON config file on your PC that you can open and edit from the Gold AI panel.
Which providers are supported?
Google Gemini, Anthropic Claude, OpenAI, OpenRouter, Groq, Mistral, Cerebras, GitHub Models, Cohere, NVIDIA, Hugging Face, Cloudflare, Alibaba, Z.ai and SiliconFlow.
Who pays for AI usage?
You do, directly with your provider; Gold PDF itself is free.
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