Use of the SMPTE test pattern in picture archiving and communication systems.

In 1985 the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) published a Recommended Practice (RP-133) entitled Specifications for Medical Diagnostic Imaging Test Pattern for Television Monitors and Hard-copy Cameras. Since that time the SMPTE monochrome test pattern has been applied to the acceptance testing and quality control of video and image display systems, and hard-copy (film) recorders. The major features of the test pattern will be discussed along with applications and the problems demonstrated with the pattern. Furthermore, the test pattern will be used to demonstrate that color displays may exhibit only one-half of the resolution of a monochrome monitor whereas the display contrast (due to limited dynamic range) may be only 10 to 20% of that obtained with a monochrome display.