<title>Pilot model of the extrahigh-quality imaging system</title>

Abstract

The progress of computer graphics and display technology has led us to always obtain an advanced visual image. However, we now feel the limit of the color reproduction (by the present 24 bits/pixel quantization, R, G, B, 8 bits respectively,) when pursuing a higher image quality. Therefore, we are developing an 'extra high quality imaging system' of 36 bit/pixel quantization (R, G, B, 12 bits, respectively.) This system comprises a MO disk drive, a controlling computer, a frame buffer and two 21' displays. The 2048 multiplied by 2048 pixel (36 bits/pixel) image data are read from the MO disk drive, and are sent to the frame buffer. A deliberately constructed 16 M byte frame buffer outputs the 36 bits/pixel video signal at a 200 MHz clock rate. Two displays, using a shadow-mask type CRT, are driven at a 78.7 kHz horizontal frequency. The system outputs the 36 bits/pixel and the 24 bits/pixel video signals concurrently, which makes it possible to compare the image quality of a 36 bits/pixel system with that of a 24 bits/pixel system. Many characteristics and physical factors, including noise, which do not cause a serious problem in conventional 24 bits/pixel systems, have a much more serious effect on the 36 bits/pixel system. We have now obtained the performance of color depth of up to 33 bits/pixel.