Theory And Measurement Of The Modulation Transfer Function (MTF)

By Image Science Ltd

A Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) is defined as a quantitative and objective measure of the quality of an image formed by a lens or and electro-optical system. This universally accepted measurement is appropriate for lenses of all qualities, and can also be calculated from lens design data which enables theoretical and actual performances to be compared. The MTF measurement has almost completely replaced older visual tests that relied on human judgement and provided very little information. Download this white paper for further discussion on the theory and measurement of the modulation transfer function.