PDF/A

(Last update of this topic: 12-02-2021)

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PDF/A

(Last update of this topic: 12-02-2021)

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PDF/A is a file format for long-term archiving digital documents that has been standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as a subset of the Portable Document Format (PDF). The standard specifies how the elements of the underlying PDF versions must be used with regard to long-term archiving. In this context, there are both mandatory and non-permitted components.

 

In the following formats are available:

 

- PDF/A-1a

- PDF/A-1b

- PDF/A-2a

- PDF/A-3

 

Overview of PDF/A format:

 

- The format needs less storage space than usual PDF documents

- It is not possible to encrypt or lock the file

- The color profiles are exactly defined and stored

- It is not possible to process links or other external contents as they are subject to change

- Even audio and video files cannot be processed

- Digital signatures are stored

- It is not possible to insert transparent objects

- It is neither possible to use embedded data in this format