Photographic Series
5L
Belonging to the ISO A series, the 5L paper size is a unique and versatile format. This particular size, while not as commonly recognized as its A4 or A3 counterparts, holds its own distinctive place within the ISO 216 standard. The dimensions of a 5L sheet are precisely defined, ensuring consistency across various applications.
The 5L paper size is part of an ingenious system that maintains aspect ratio when scaled up or down. This means that each size in the series is half the area of the previous one when folded parallel to its shorter sides. It's this clever design feature that makes it so adaptable and user-friendly.
5L 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 |
One might wonder about practical uses for such a specific paper size like 5L. In reality, it finds extensive use in industries such as publishing and advertising where precision matters. For instance, it can be used for creating detailed brochures or compact manuals where space optimization is key.
Interestingly enough, despite being part of an international standard set by ISO (International Organization for Standardization), adoption of this format varies globally due to regional preferences and historical practices. While widely accepted in Europe and many other parts of the world, North America primarily follows ANSI (American National Standards Institute) sizes.
While seemingly unassuming at first glance, the 5L paper size carries with it a rich history and practicality that make it an integral part of our everyday professional lives.
Other Formats in the Photographic Series
Interesting facts about 5L
1. The Origin of 5L Paper
5L paper is part of the ISO 216 standard series, which was first introduced in Europe in the 19th century. It is derived from the A series and has a unique aspect ratio.
2. Dimensions of 5L Paper
The dimensions of 5L paper are not as widely known as other sizes. It measures approximately 176 x 250 millimeters or about 6.9 x 9.8 inches.
3. Usage in Japan
In Japan, the size closest to 5L paper is called "Shiroku-ban" and is commonly used for printing manga (Japanese comics) and doujinshi (self-published works).
4. Limited Availability
Compared to more popular paper sizes like A4 or Letter, finding pre-cut sheets or ready-made products in the exact size of 5L can be challenging outside certain regions.
5. Customization Potential
The relative rarity of pre-cut sheets makes it an interesting choice for those seeking unique stationery or specialty printing projects that stand out from standard formats.
6. Niche Applications
The compact size of 5L paper makes it suitable for various niche applications such as pocket-sized notebooks, travel journals, small brochures, or compact flyers.
7. Compatibility with A Series Envelopes
If you have a document printed on a standard A series size like A6 (105 x 148 mm), it can fit perfectly into an envelope designed for a sheet of 5L paper without any trimming required.
8. Historical Connection
The ISO 216 standard series, including 5L paper, has its roots in the German DIN 476 standard introduced in the early 20th century. It aimed to establish a consistent paper size system across Europe.
9. Similarity to US Junior Legal Paper
5L paper is close in size to the US Junior Legal paper (8 x 5 inches), but with slightly different dimensions. This similarity can be useful for those looking for alternatives or conversions between the two systems.
10. Uncommon Printer Settings
Due to its less common usage, some printers may not have preset options for printing on 5L paper. However, it can usually be manually set by entering custom dimensions or selecting a similar size from the available options.
