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PDFA (Portable Document Format Archive) is a file format based on the PDF standard, designed to preserve the exact appearance of a document over time. It is particularly used for long-term archiving and digital preservation. PDFA was developed by the Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM) and the Adobe Systems Inc. The format ensures that documents can be reliably reproduced on different systems and platforms, maintaining their visual fidelity.

The PDFA standard is defined in ISO 19005, which specifies three conformance levels: PDFA-1, PDFA-2, and PDFA-3. Each level builds upon the previous one, incorporating additional features and improvements. PDFA-1 is the most basic level, focusing on static documents with a limited set of features. PDFA-2 introduces support for embedded fonts, transparency, and additional color spaces, making it more versatile for a wider range of documents. PDFA-3 further enhances the format by supporting 3D content, embedded files, and improved metadata handling.

PDFA documents are typically created using specialized software that adheres to the PDFA standards. These tools ensure that the documents meet the required specifications, including the use of approved fonts, color profiles, and other elements necessary for long-term preservation. The format is widely used in industries such as publishing, government, and healthcare, where the preservation of document integrity is crucial.

One of the key advantages of PDFA is its ability to maintain the visual appearance of a document over time, even as technology evolves. This makes it an ideal choice for archiving important documents, ensuring that they can be accessed and understood in the future without loss of quality. Additionally, PDFA documents are platform-independent, meaning they can be viewed and printed on any device that supports the PDF standard.

In summary, PDFA is a robust file format designed for long-term document preservation. Its adherence to the PDF standard ensures that documents maintain their visual fidelity over time, making it a valuable tool for industries that require reliable digital archiving.