Photographic Series
JIS B4
Belonging to the JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) series, the JIS B4 paper size is a unique and versatile format. It measures 257mm x 364mm, providing ample space for various applications. This size is part of the B series in the ISO 216 international paper size standard, which also includes A and C series.
The JIS B4 format stands out due to its aspect ratio of 1:√2, a characteristic shared by all sizes in the ISO 216 standard. This unique feature ensures that when a sheet is divided into two, each half retains the same aspect ratio as the original sheet. This allows for seamless scaling of documents without distortion or loss of content.
JIS B4 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 |
While not as commonly used globally as its A-series counterparts like A4 or A3, JIS B4 holds significant importance in Japan and other East Asian countries. It's often utilized for printing newspapers, books, catalogs, and manuals due to its larger dimensions compared to A4.
Interestingly enough, despite being part of an international standard (ISO), JIS B4 does not have an equivalent in ANSI (American National Standards Institute) series used predominantly in North America. The closest ANSI equivalent would be Ledger/Tabloid size but it still differs slightly in dimensions.
JIS B4 offers a unique blend of versatility and functionality that makes it suitable for various printing needs while maintaining consistency with international standards.
Other Formats in the Photographic Series
Interesting facts about JIS B4
1: JIS B4 Paper Size
JIS B4 paper is a Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) paper size that measures 257 mm × 364 mm (10.12 in × 14.33 in). It is slightly larger than the ISO B4 paper size, which measures 250 mm × 353 mm (9.84 in × 13.90 in).
2: Traditional Use
JIS B4 paper was traditionally used for printing newspapers and magazines in Japan. However, with the rise of digital media, its usage has declined over the years.
3: Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio of JIS B4 paper is approximately √2:1, which means that if you fold it in half along its longer side, you get two sheets of JIS B5 paper.
4: Historical Origin
The JIS paper sizes were established by the Japanese Industrial Standards Committee in the early post-war period to standardize paper sizes for industrial and commercial purposes.
5: Compatibility with Other Sizes
JIS B3 and JIS A3 papers can be cut from a single sheet of JIS B2 or JIS A2 respectively, maintaining their aspect ratios. This allows for efficient use of resources when printing different sizes.
6: International Variations
The ISO series of paper sizes differs slightly from the JIS series. While both are widely used globally, it's important to note these variations when dealing with international printing standards.
7: Paper Weight Considerations
JIS B-size papers have varying weights depending on their intended use. For example, JIS B4 paper used for newspapers is typically lighter than JIS B4 paper used for magazines or other printed materials.
8: Paper Thickness Standards
JIS B-size papers also have specific thickness standards to ensure consistency and quality. These standards help printers determine the appropriate paper thickness for different printing applications.
9: Environmental Impact
The production and disposal of paper have significant environmental implications. Choosing eco-friendly options, such as recycled or sustainably sourced JIS B4 paper, can help reduce the ecological footprint of printing activities.
10: Digital Transformation
The digital age has led to a decline in the use of physical paper, including JIS B4 size. However, despite this shift, there is still a demand for printed materials in certain industries and cultural contexts.
