Books Series
C Format
Belonging to the ISO 216 standard, the C Format is a unique paper size series that plays an integral role in our everyday documentation needs. This format is specifically designed to serve as envelopes for the A and B series, showcasing its practicality and versatility.
The dimensions of C Format papers are geometrically determined by the square root of two, ensuring a consistent aspect ratio when scaled up or down. This mathematical precision contributes to its seamless compatibility with other ISO paper sizes.
C Format paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
Interestingly, despite being less recognized than its A and B counterparts, the C Format holds significant importance in professional settings. Its sizes range from C0 (the largest) to C10 (the smallest), providing a wide array of options for various business requirements.
For instance, the popularly used C4 size perfectly accommodates an unfolded A4 document - a common standard for business letters and documents across Europe. Similarly, a folded A4 document fits snugly into a C5 envelope, demonstrating how these formats work harmoniously together.
In contrast to ANSI standards predominantly used in North America, which follow arbitrary dimensions based on historical practices, ISO's systematic approach offers more consistency and interoperability between different paper sizes. The adoption of this system globally underscores its effectiveness and efficiency.
While often overlooked in favor of more well-known formats like A4 or Letter size, the humble yet versatile C Format deserves recognition for its crucial role within our documentation ecosystem. Its design rooted in mathematical precision ensures it remains an indispensable tool in our professional lives.
Other Formats in the Books Series
Interesting facts about C Format
1: C Format Paper - A Unique Size
C Format paper is a unique size that falls within the ISO 216 standard. It measures 917 mm x 1297 mm, making it larger than the commonly used A3 size and smaller than the B3 size.
2: Origin of C Format Paper
The C Format paper was introduced in Germany during the early 20th century. It was primarily used for printing envelopes and folders due to its convenient dimensions.
3: Ideal for Architectural Drawings
C Format paper is often preferred by architects for creating detailed architectural drawings. Its elongated shape allows for easy representation of floor plans, elevations, and other technical designs.
4: Compatibility with A Series Sizes
C Format paper has an interesting relationship with the A series sizes. When folded in half along its longer side, it becomes two sheets of A1 paper. Similarly, when folded twice along its shorter side, it transforms into four sheets of A2 paper.
5: Common Use in Bookbinding
C Format paper is commonly used in bookbinding processes to create book covers or dust jackets. Its dimensions provide ample space for designing attractive covers while ensuring proper fit on various book sizes.
6: Limited Availability
Compared to other standard sizes like A and B series papers, C format papers are relatively less common and may not be readily available at all print shops or stationery stores.
7: Variations Across Countries
The exact dimensions of C format papers can vary slightly between different countries that follow the ISO standard. These variations are usually within a few millimeters, but it's essential to double-check the specific measurements required.
8: Specialty Printing Applications
C Format paper is often used for specialty printing applications such as large-scale posters, banners, or oversized artwork. Its unique size allows for eye-catching displays and creative designs.
9: Historical Significance
The introduction of C format paper was a significant step in standardizing paper sizes globally. It aimed to simplify printing processes and facilitate international communication by providing consistent dimensions for various applications.
10: Customization Possibilities
While C Format paper has defined dimensions according to the ISO standard, it can still be customized further by trimming or cutting it into smaller sizes as per specific requirements.
