Modulation transfer function (MTF) analysis for a FLIR system with nonlinear video electronics

The image formation process of forward looking infrared (FLIR) systems differs from system to system with some systems utilizing gamma correction in the electronics. This is done to compensate for display nonlinearity referred to as the display gamma. Automated minimum resolvable temperature (MRT) testing for an automated support system requires modulation transfer function (MTF) measurement data collected at the video output. To compute the MTF the time averaged edge trace is differentiated digitally to produce the line spread function (LSF) and the FFT. The gamma correction introduced in the video signal for display purposes may introduce errors in the MTF measurement and should be removed for a more accurate result. These nonlinear effects are investigated using simulations and actual measurement data from a FLIR system. The results from the analysis provide one with data for designing improved testing procedures.<
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