Video system characterization

Timothy W. Jackson; James C. Byrd; John H. Harshbarger

doi:10.1117/12.321790

14 September 1998 Video system characterization

Timothy W. Jackson, James C. Byrd, John H. Harshbarger

Proceedings Volume 3363, Cockpit Displays V: Displays for Defense Applications; (1998) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.321790
Event: Aerospace/Defense Sensing and Controls, 1998, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

Video systems in military platforms are typically used to display sensor video and imagery for sensors such as forward looking infrared (FLIR), low light level television (LLLTV), synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and laser radar (LADAR), in addition to graphics and alphanumerics. The performance of these systems may need to be characterized during initial testing or in support a potential upgrade to the sensor. To be able to sense and deliver the best quality of video to the warfighter, it is critical that the system designer have a well-characterized video system, so he or she can make the appropriate performance, cost and schedule tradeoffs. Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) is one of several metrics that can be measured when characterizing a monochrome video system and can be very useful in optimizing the system for either initial design or for an upgrade. The use of MTF in determining resolution throughout a video system, including the application of useful metrics such as MTF area (MTFA) and square root integral (SQRI), is presented in this paper. Issues regarding hybrid video systems, which incorporate both analog and digital components in the video chain, are addressed. Practical methods for MTF testing of both displays and electrical components in the video chain are also presented. The paper discusses the practical application of video test patterns to perform an efficient component evaluation. The use of photometric testing of displays is touched on briefly. And lastly, the final topic to be addressed in this paper is the use of the time domain reflectometer in testing cables in the video chain for impedance mismatches.

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Timothy W. Jackson, James C. Byrd, and John H. Harshbarger "Video system characterization", Proc. SPIE 3363, Cockpit Displays V: Displays for Defense Applications, (14 September 1998); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.321790

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KEYWORDS

Modulation transfer functions

Video

Video surveillance

Visualization

Cameras

Eye

Imaging systems

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