How to Use the Command 'pdfxup' (with examples)

The pdfxup command is a powerful tool for rearranging and compressing PDF files by placing multiple original pages onto a single page. This process, known as N-upping, involves scaling and positioning the pages in a grid layout, making it useful for creating compact and organized printable documents. This is especially beneficial when printing PDFs, as it reduces paper usage and binding costs, while also making the PDFs more portable and manageable.

Use Case 1: Create a 2-up PDF

Code:

pdfxup -o path/to/output.pdf path/to/input.pdf

Motivation:

In many cases, academic articles, lengthy forms, or research papers are distributed as single-page PDFs, which might not be the most efficient format for reading or printing. By creating a 2-up PDF, you effectively place two pages on a single sheet, making it easier to read and significantly cutting down on the number of pages when printed. This is particularly useful if you are trying to minimize paper use or reduce the bulk of printed materials for easier carrying or archiving.

Explanation:

• -o path/to/output.pdf: This specifies the file path where the newly created 2-up PDF should be saved. The option -o stands for ‘output’.
• path/to/input.pdf: This denotes the path of the original PDF file that needs to be processed. This is the input file on which the N-upping operation is performed.

Example Output:

When executed, this command produces a new PDF file, output.pdf, featuring every two pages of input.pdf combined onto a single page. The pages are arranged side-by-side, usually in landscape orientation, which is particularly effective for reading on wide screens or printing on paper.

Use Case 2: Create a PDF with 3 Columns and 2 Lines per Page

Code:

pdfxup -x 3 -y 2 -o path/to/output.pdf path/to/input.pdf

Motivation:

Occasionally, documents such as reports or manuals are distributed that contain extensive information over a great number of pages. Creating a PDF in a format with 3 columns and 2 lines per page can greatly enhance the compactness of the document. This layout minimizes the space each page takes on a sheet while still maintaining readability. It’s especially useful for quick-reference guides or condensed print versions of lengthy materials.

Explanation:

• -x 3: This flag indicates the number of columns into which the pages of the original file should be divided. In this case, the number of columns is set to 3.
• -y 2: This flag designates the number of rows to appear on each page in the output document. Here, the layout will have 2 rows per page.
• -o path/to/output.pdf: Specifies where the output file will be saved.
• path/to/input.pdf: Marks the input file to be processed.

Example Output:

The resultant PDF, output.pdf, contains pages that are organized into a grid of 3 columns and 2 lines, effectively fitting six original pages per single output page. This grid layout significantly decreases the number of pages needed for printing, while still offering a legible structure for viewing materials.

Use Case 3: Create a PDF in Booklet Mode

Code:

pdfxup -b -o path/to/output.pdf path/to/input.pdf

Motivation:

Creating booklets is a common need for manuals, brochures, or small publications. The booklet mode offered by pdfxup allows for effectively creating a folded printed product that facilitates ease of use and aesthetic presentation. The main advantage of PDF booklet mode is that it automatically orders pages such that when printed, folded, and stapled, they form a well-sequenced booklet. This makes the process of converting a plain PDF into a more professionally presented document straightforward and automatic.

Explanation:

• -b: This option activates booklet mode in the pdfxup command. It ensures that the pages are ordered correctly to be folded and bound into a book.
• -o path/to/output.pdf: Directs the tool to save the resulting booklet PDF at this specific location.
• path/to/input.pdf: Identifies the source PDF to be converted into a booklet.

Example Output:

After the command execution, the output.pdf contains re-ordered pages derived from input.pdf, such that when printed double-sided, the pages can be folded in half to create a booklet. The pages have been rearranged so that they will appear in the correct sequence when folded together, making the final product immediately ready for staples or binding.

Conclusion

The pdfxup command is a versatile tool for modifying PDFs to meet various practical needs, from simple 2-up arrangements to complex multi-page grids and professional-grade booklets. Whether for personal, academic, or business purposes, these capabilities can streamline document handling, reduce waste, and improve the presentation of printed materials.