Resolution Requirements for HDTV Based upon the Performance of 35mm Motion-Picture Films for Theatrical Viewing

Arthur Kaiser, Henry W. Mahler, Renville H. McMann

In early attempts by the television engineering community to define “high-definition television,” theatrically viewed 35mm motion-picture film served as the standard for determining resolution requirements. However, data on the amount of resolution in 35mm films for theater audiences was not readily available. A test film was produced by CBS Technology Center containing exterior scenes into which a standard Marconi television chart was inserted, and was viewed in a theater using high-quality projection equipment. Photographic methods were Used to assess and document the projected film's performance. This article describes the details of producing and measuring the test film and associated equipment, and reviews earlier work relating to frame positioning errors. It concludes with a presentation of the results achieved.

Print ISSN
Published
1985-06
Content type
Original Research
DOI
10.5594/J07938