Direct Electron-Beam Film Scanning of Photographic Images

Flying-spot scanner system limitations are examined and a novel technique for overcoming them presented. A much-improved signal-to-noise ratio can be obtained by using a scintillator-coated film which, when scanned directly by the electron beam, emits light in direct contact with the photographic image. Both granularity noise and afterglow is sharply attenuated which makes possible bandwidths in excess of 50 MHz. A system incorporating this technique is described. Present system characteristics include a 20-MHz bandwidth while scanning a 5-in. photographic aerial film at a resolution of 100-line pairs/mm along the scannnng line. A description of the electron optical design and an automatic differentially pumped vacuum system is also presented.

Print ISSN

0361-4573

Published

1968-01

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/J05866