bdftopcf ☆
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Description:
Convert X font from Bitmap Distribution Format to Portable Compiled Format
Type: Formula  |  Latest Version: 1.1.2@0  |  Tracked Since: Dec 17, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: System utilities
Tags: x11 fonts conversion system-utility bitmap
Install: brew install bdftopcf
About:
bdftopcf is a command-line utility that converts X11 bitmap fonts from the Bitmap Distribution Format (BDF) into the Portable Compiled Format (PCF). This conversion process significantly reduces font file size and improves loading performance for X11 servers. It is an essential tool for font developers and system administrators managing custom font sets.
Key Features:
  • Lossless compression of bitmap fonts
  • Supports various PCF compression options
  • Handles X11 font properties and metrics accurately
  • Standard tool in the X.Org build system
Use Cases:
  • Compiling custom BDF fonts for high-performance X11 rendering
  • Optimizing font storage on resource-constrained systems
  • Integrating into font packaging pipelines for Linux distributions
Alternatives:
  • fontforge – A comprehensive font editor that can import/export formats, but is much heavier than the single-purpose bdftopcf.
License: MIT-open-group
Bottles available for: arm64_tahoe, arm64_sequoia, arm64_sonoma, arm64_ventura, sonoma, ventura, arm64_linux, x86_64_linux
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Sep 13, 2025 12:47pm 0 VERSION_BUMP cbf62d1a
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