Although there have been many systems developed for defining a standard for paper size(s), the International paper size standard (ISO) and North American sizes are the 2 most widespread systems currently in use.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO 216)
Series A3
297 mm x 420 mm
11.69 inch x 16.54 inch
Aspect Ratio 1.4142 (Square root of 2)
Successive paper sizes in the series are defined by halving the preceding paper size along the larger dimension (longer side)
e.g. A1 halved→A2. A2 halved→A3. A3 halved→A4 etc.
ISO A Series
American National Standards Institute equivalent to A3
ANSI B (Alias: B, Tabloid or Ledger)
Ledger: 432 mm x 279 mm/17 inch x 11 inch Aspect Ratio: 0.65
Tabloid: 279 mm x 432 mm/11 inch x 17 inch Aspect Ratio: 1.5455
ANSI Sizes
Therefore, ANSI B/Ledger/Tabloid is the closest equivalent to A3 size but it is not identical.
Differences in standards can give rise to compatibility issues when North American/Canadian individuals and businesses work with the international community. However, by being aware of the situation, documents can be prepared with minimal extra effort or time to ensure that text and images fit either format at a 1:1 reproduction.
In addition, don’t assume that an A3 laser printer can print in both formats, although most modern wider format printers can print in both A3 and 11 inch x 17 inch. If this function is an important issue, always consult the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that both formats are supported. However, be aware that sometimes the manufacturer’s specifications for a given printer model may differ depending on its respective targeted market.
Examples:
FS-C8100DN listed as a 11 inch x 17 inch printer in the US and an A3 printer in the UK.
FS-C8500DN shown has having a Duty Cycle of 225,000 in the US and 150,000 in the UK.
