What Is PDF/A?

PDF/A (archival PDF) is a type of PDF that is used for the long term storage of documents. Standard PDF files rely on external information, such as font libraries, to be read, and this can pose problems for retrieval far in the future. PDF/A files, on the other hand, have all information embedded in the file and do not rely on external information. This is useful for archiving, as anyone with a PDF/A reader can view a PDF/A file without the need for appropriate external information. The drawback to this is that because all information must be embedded in PDF/A files, they tend to be larger than regular PDF files.

What Is PDF/A Conversion Software?

PDF/A conversion software converts many document file types to PDF/A files, providing a reliable method of archiving digital documents. Once converted to PDF/A files, documents are insured to be able to be opened in the future regardless of the computer they are being opened on as long as it has a valid PDF/A reader. Because all information needed for opening a PDF/A file is embedded in the file itself, a PDF/A reader is all that is necessary for the retrieval of PDF/A documents.

PDF/A Conversion for Your Business

PDF/A may be a smart choice if you are looking to ensure that your documents are able to be opened in the future. If your business has digital documents -- or even paper documents, as they can be scanned -- that must be archived, you should consider PDF/A software. CVISION Technologies' PdfCompressor software has full PDF/A support, and can convert your documents into archival PDF/As. You may download a free trial to learn more about the benefits of PDF/A.