Unlike many other server-based OCR software solutions ExpressRecognition Server can instantly convert images from faxes and scans, image files such as TIFFs and JPEGs and image-only PDF files directly to PDF/A in one step. There is no need to convert images to PDF and then use another tool or separate process to convert to PDF/A. By incorporating both processes into on operation, companies will be able to save time and potential errors associated with multiple steps.
The PDF/A specification is a ratified ISO (International Standards Organization) standard for long term document archival based on PDF specification Version 1.4. It is applicable to documents containing combinations of character, raster and vector data. ISO 19005-1:2005 defines PDF/A as, “(PDF/A) provides a mechanism for representing electronic documents in a manner that preserves their visual appearance over time, independent of the tools and systems used for creating, storing or rendering the files.”
A key feature of PDF/A is that the document can be rendered the same way on any device, including different Operating systems and PDF viewers for a very long time. In order for this to occur, PDF/A compliant files must be self contained. This means that no fonts, hyperlinks, bookmarks or images can be retrieved from an external source (includes fonts used for annotations). ISO 19005-1:2005 defines two types of PDF/A, PDF/A-1a and PDF/A-1b. Express supports the creation and validation of PDF/A-1b PDF files. PDF/A-1a refers to level A compliance which is very strict and unsupported by Express at this time. Express will render most supported file types to PDF/A with the following notable exceptions: Crystal Reports, and PostScript files.
In addition, Express can preflight (validate) PDF documents for PDF/A-1b compliance and report the deficiencies. This is done via XML Job Tickets and the PDFPREFLIGHT element (see XML Job Ticket Guide for more information). The PDF/A-1b level of compliance, prevents any of the following being added to a PDF document.
- External hyperlinks
- External bookmarks
- External fonts (including fonts used for annotations).
- PDF security
- Embedded Javascript
- Headers, Footers, Watermarks (if Opacity is less then 100%)
- Digital Signatures
- PDF Attachments
- PDF documents that are not already PDF/A compliant cannot be repaired and rendered to PDF/A.
- When rendering text files to PDF/A the Courier font is not supported.
- Express performs PDF/A-1b validation via PDFPREFLIGHT
- Conversion using Myriad as the Native Application is not supported when using a CMYK color profile for PDF/A-1b.
- Conversion of image file types (e.g. TIFF and JPG) to a CMYK PDF/A-1b is not supported.
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“ExpressRecognition Server is a powerful server-based OCR software. Using it, users can easily convert images to PDF/A documents with speed and accuracy.”
Vorys, Sater, Seymour & Pease LLP
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