What is used to test a monitor's spatial resolution?

What is used to test a monitor's spatial resolution?

• A. AAPM phantom
• B. SMPTE test pattern
• C. Grayscale check chart
• D. Step-wedge

Answer: (B)

Spatial resolution is about how finely a display can show detail, i.e., how small of features it can distinguish. The SMPTE test pattern is built with high-contrast line pairs at progressively higher spatial frequencies. By examining where the lines still appear as separate black and white bars, you can assess the monitor’s ability to resolve fine detail. It’s a standard, practical way to gauge sharpness and any blur or aliasing across the screen, which is exactly what spatial resolution measures. Other patterns test different aspects: an AAPM phantom checks broader imaging system performance, a grayscale check chart focuses on tonal range and how many gray levels the display can reproduce, and a step-wedge assesses grayscale steps and exposure response rather than spatial detail.

Spatial resolution is about how finely a display can show detail, i.e., how small of features it can distinguish. The SMPTE test pattern is built with high-contrast line pairs at progressively higher spatial frequencies. By examining where the lines still appear as separate black and white bars, you can assess the monitor’s ability to resolve fine detail. It’s a standard, practical way to gauge sharpness and any blur or aliasing across the screen, which is exactly what spatial resolution measures. Other patterns test different aspects: an AAPM phantom checks broader imaging system performance, a grayscale check chart focuses on tonal range and how many gray levels the display can reproduce, and a step-wedge assesses grayscale steps and exposure response rather than spatial detail.