Measuring the modulation transfer function of image capture devices: what do the numbers really mean?

Xujie Zhang; Tamar Kashti; Dror Kella; Tal Frank; Doron Shaked; Robert Ulichney; Mani Fischer; Jan P. Allebach

doi:10.1117/12.912989

24 January 2012 Measuring the modulation transfer function of image capture devices: what do the numbers really mean?

Xujie Zhang, Tamar Kashti, Dror Kella, Tal Frank, Doron Shaked, Robert Ulichney, Mani Fischer, Jan P. Allebach

Proceedings Volume 8293, Image Quality and System Performance IX; 829307 (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.912989
Event: IS&T/SPIE Electronic Imaging, 2012, Burlingame, California, United States

Abstract

The modulation transfer function (MTF) is a fundamental tool for assessing the performance of imaging systems. It has been applied to a range of capture and output devices, including printers and even the media itself. In this paper, we consider the problem of measuring the MTF of image capture devices. We analyze the factors that limit the MTF of a capture device. Then, we examine three different approaches to this task based, respectively, on a slant-edge target, a sinewave target, and a grill pattern. We review the mathematical relationship between the three different methods, and discuss their comparative advantages and disadvantages. Finally, we present experimental results for MTF measurement with a number of different commercially available image capture devices that are specifically designed for capture of 2D reflection or transmission copy. These include camera-based systems, flat-bed scanners, and a drum scanner.

Citation Download Citation

Xujie Zhang, Tamar Kashti, Dror Kella, Tal Frank, Doron Shaked, Robert Ulichney, Mani Fischer, and Jan P. Allebach "Measuring the modulation transfer function of image capture devices: what do the numbers really mean?", Proc. SPIE 8293, Image Quality and System Performance IX, 829307 (24 January 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.912989

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available