Convert PBM to BIE

The PBM (Portable Bitmap) file extension, part of the Netpbm project, originated in the late 1980s to facilitate efficient and portable graphics file interchange. Primarily, PBM files are used to store monochrome bitmaps in a simple ASCII text format, ensuring easy compatibility across different systems and platforms. This format supports only black-and-white imagery, making it particularly useful in scenarios where simplicity and minimalism are prioritized, such as in Unix environments for bitmap manipulation and transfer. Its historical significance lies in promoting a standardized approach to bitmap graphics in early computer technology.

The BIE file extension, associated with the Joint Bi-level Image Experts Group, stands for "Binary Image Entity". This format was developed for efficient compression of binary images, primarily used in fax transmissions. Introduced in 1993, JBIG1 provided lossless compression, outperforming earlier standards like CCITT Group 3 and 4. It was later succeeded by JBIG2, which offered improved compression efficiency for bi-level images.