What is PDF/X?
The PDF/X is the subset of the PDF ISO standard. It is formalized in ISO standards 15929 and 15930. The PDF/X (the "X" is for eXchange) standard was developed at the request of graphics technology to facilitate the exchange of documents. Note that PDF/X is not a special version of PDF. It is a standard that seeks to avoid problems that may arise when exchanging documents required for seamless graphic production (professionally printed products).
A PDF document created according to the PDF/X standard must meet the following parameters:
- The PDF document must not be separated.
- The PDF document must not be password protected or have some other restriction.
- All objects required for processing a PDF document must be embedded in the document itself.
- All fonts used in the PDF document must be embedded.
- LZW compression is not allowed.
- Trapping must be defined.
- Output intent must be specified.
- If the bleed zone is defined, the BleedBox must be outside the printable area (the TrimBox).
- Active content is not allowed in a PDF/X file.
Find out more about the different versions of the PDF/X standards at the following link: List of the PDF/X standards.
