PDF Font Subsets

When generating a PDF, it is possible to include only those characters in a font that were used in the document. This partial font is called a "Font Subset". The threshold for font subsetting is made in the Distiller job options under "Subset fonts below XX%".

The primary advantages of subsetting fonts are that it not only reduces the PDF file size, it RIP's are forced to use the subset font even if the system has the full font available. This compact file has slightly higher integrity that other PDF files, and is less likely to encounter problems with substituted fonts.

Disadvantages of font subsetting are that it "locks" the file from ever being edited later in the production process if necessary, and when merging 2 PDF files with subsetted fonts can create differences among the required resources.

Please review the guidelines for PDF file creation and Distiller settings.