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Photographic Series

JIS B5

JIS B5

Belonging to the JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) series, the JIS B5 paper size is a distinctive and widely utilized format. It measures 182 by 257 millimeters or approximately 7.17 by 10.12 inches, making it slightly larger than its ISO A5 counterpart and smaller than the ANSI A (Letter) size.

The JIS B5's unique dimensions make it an ideal choice for various applications, from professional documents to personal notebooks. Its size strikes a balance between portability and usability, providing ample space for detailed content while remaining compact enough for easy transport.

JIS B5 paper dimensions

Specs

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Formatinmmcmpt
2A046.81 x 66.221189 x 1682119 x 1683370 x 4768
A120.51 x 0.7113 x 181 x 237 x 51
4A066.22 x 93.621682 x 2378168 x 2384768 x 6741
A110.71 x 1.0218 x 262 x 351 x 74
A101.02 x 1.4626 x 373 x 474 x 105
A3+12.95 x 19.02329 x 48333 x 48933 x 1369
A1+23.98 x 35.98609 x 91461 x 911726 x 2591
A0+35.98 x 50.87914 x 129291 x 1292591 x 3662
A64.13 x 5.83105 x 14811 x 15298 x 420
A55.83 x 8.27148 x 21015 x 21420 x 595
A48.27 x 11.69210 x 29721 x 30595 x 842
A311.69 x 16.54297 x 42030 x 42842 x 1191
A91.46 x 2.0537 x 524 x 5105 x 147
A216.54 x 23.39420 x 59442 x 591191 x 1684
A82.05 x 2.9152 x 745 x 7147 x 210
A123.39 x 33.11594 x 84159 x 841684 x 2384
A72.91 x 4.1374 x 1057 x 11210 x 298
A033.11 x 46.81841 x 118984 x 1192384 x 3370

Interestingly, the aspect ratio of JIS B5 remains constant even when folded in half, adhering to the principle of maintaining proportions known as Junishi-Hanbun-Kaishaku. This characteristic ensures that scaling up or down does not distort the content layout—a feature highly valued in design and printing industries.

In terms of global usage, while ISO standards are more prevalent in most parts of the world, JIS B series holds significant sway in Japan's domestic market. The popularity of this paper size extends beyond Japan's borders into other Asian markets where Japanese products have a strong presence.

Overall, with its unique dimensions and consistent aspect ratio, JIS B5 stands as an essential component within both domestic and international paper standards—providing versatility across various applications while maintaining aesthetic appeal through proportional consistency.

Other Formats in the Photographic Series

Interesting facts about JIS B5

1. JIS B5 Paper Size

JIS B5 paper is a standard paper size in Japan, defined by the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS). It measures 182 mm × 257 mm (7.17 in × 10.12 in), which is slightly larger than the ISO B5 size.

2. The "B" Series Paper Sizes

The JIS B series paper sizes are based on the ISO B series sizes but with slight variations. While both series have the same aspect ratio of √2:1, JIS B sizes have slightly different dimensions compared to their ISO counterparts.

3. Historical Background

The JIS paper sizes were introduced in Japan during the Meiji era (1868-1912) as part of an effort to standardize various industrial products and processes, including paper sizes.

4. Common Uses

JIS B5 paper is commonly used for various purposes in Japan, such as notebooks, magazines, catalogs, and some paperback books.

5. Compatibility with ISO Sizes

JIS B5 paper can be easily converted to ISO B5 size by trimming off approximately 6 mm from its width.

6. Similarity to US Letter Size

The width of JIS B5 paper is very close to that of US Letter size (8.5 in × 11 in), making it compatible for certain printing applications when adjusted for length.

7. Notable Variants

In addition to the standard JIS B5 size, there are two notable variants: JIS Executive (JEX) and JIS Quarto (JBQ). These sizes are larger than JIS B5 and are commonly used for official documents and reports.

8. Paper Thickness

JIS B5 paper is available in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 52 g/m² to 128 g/m². The choice of thickness depends on the intended use of the paper.

9. Paper Grain Direction

JIS B5 paper can have either a long grain or a short grain direction, depending on how it was manufactured. The grain direction affects the paper's flexibility and strength.

10. Availability Outside Japan

While JIS B5 paper is primarily used in Japan, it can also be found in some international markets where Japanese stationery products are sold or imported.