Definition of modulation transfer function analysis/measurement equipment

Photonics Dictionary

modulation transfer function analysis/measurement equipment: MTF analysis/measurement equipment refers to instruments and tools used to measure and analyze the modulation transfer function (MTF) of optical systems. The MTF is a quantitative measure of the ability of an optical system to transfer the contrast of an object from the object plane to the image plane. It is a critical parameter in assessing the imaging performance of lenses, cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and other optical systems.

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MTF analysis equipment typically consists of:

Test charts: These are patterned targets with specific features, such as line pairs or sinusoidal patterns, designed to evaluate the spatial frequency response of an optical system. Test charts are positioned at the object plane of the optical system under test.

Imaging system: The optical system under test, which could be a lens, camera, or other optical device.

Imaging sensor: A sensor, such as a CCD or CMOS camera, used to capture images of the test charts produced by the optical system under test.

Software: Dedicated software programs are used to process the captured images and calculate the MTF values based on the contrast transfer function.

Analysis algorithms: These algorithms calculate the MTF by analyzing the contrast of specific features in the captured images at different spatial frequencies.

Measurement standards: Guidelines and standards established by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provide protocols for conducting MTF measurements and interpreting the results.

MTF analysis equipment allows engineers, researchers, and manufacturers to assess and optimize the performance of optical systems by quantifying factors such as resolution, sharpness, and contrast. By analyzing the MTF, users can identify aberrations, evaluate design changes, and compare different optical components or systems to ensure they meet the desired performance criteria.

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MTF Analysis/Measurement Equipment

Meadowlark Optics - Wave Plates 6/24 MR 2024

Lambda Research Optics, Inc. - Large Optics