Image Quality Determines Differences in Reading Performance and Perceived Image Quality with CRT and Hard-Copy Displays

Abstract

The effects of physical image quality on reading and on perceived image quality from CRT and hard copy displays (photographs) were studied. The results showed that as the image quality of a display increased, indicated by an increase in the value of the modulation transfer function area (MTFA), the reading speed and subjective image quality ratings increased. This change in reading speed and perceived image quality occurred similarly for both hard-copy and soft-copy conditions. If the image qualities of the displayed text are similar, hard-copy and softcopy displays will yield equivalent reading speeds.