There can be few, if anyone, involved in processing data and files who haven't heard of the PDF format. Originally conceived by Adobe some 18 years ago, it is now becoming the de facto standard for documents of all kinds with its ability to contain within its walls everything needed for final information to be printed and displayed in the correct manner, and not with bits missing or corrupted.

But, rather like the variants in motor cars where drivers can opt for manual, automatic, leather upholstery, climate control and other added goodies, PDF has evolved to contain specifics which vary according to preference. As such, PDF/X encompasses a variety of standards, and these in turn include specifics which are relevant to print but aren't normally required in other fields.

Consistency through standardisation is helped with PDF/X

This sounds complicated, but isn't. In fact, this representation is a logical method of ensuring that commonality in what's needed is easy to identify by the PDF/X file type. So, for a PSP working to PDF/X-1a, all colours need to be CMYK or spot and all fonts must be embedded. Whereas, with PDF/X-3, RGB and CIELab are both supported, while other PDF/X numerals define different parameters, such as transparency and external links to graphics.

These variants are all defined by ISO 15930, essential to ensure absolute conformity and, thus, enabling PSPs to rest confident in that, by sticking to the given parameters, there won't be any nasty surprises in their end jobs. The different options within PDF/X might appear confusing to the uninitiated but, largely, they are based on common sense and cover the eventualities which need to be addressed when it comes to graphical content, colour management, external ICC profiles and other specifics which are key to the production and print cycle.

For sign-makers and display producers who might have pottered along for years using their own methodology for workflow and print, the value of understanding the benefits of PDF/X is becoming more important. We now live in a digital age where consistency should be guaranteed, but rarely is, and where data handling and output is getting ever more complex and demanding. Working to a common standard should become par for the course for everyone.

These standards are put in place for a purpose, and not just as a nuisance to be worked round. PDF/X in its various guises is designed to clarify data requirements and the way it is handled, and not intended to be a thorn in anyone's side. So learning about the differences in the nomenclature can save time and take away the mysteries often encountered when dealing with, and outputting, files from different sources and programs.