Abstract

It is the purpose of this investigation to determine whether or not the output quality of black and white images on a Xerox Docutech can be enhanced. The Docutech is a black and white digital printing device. In times of a growing demand for on-demand printing and publishing, the Docutech not only has to reproduce text and graphics properly but also has to cope with the increasing task of rendering images. Although there are multiple options to improve the output quality, this project focuses on the impact of image capturing on the output. As a result of this investigation, a user's manual should help to achieve satisfying reproductions on the Docutech. The project goals are reached by extensive testing and a careful evaluation of the experiments by visual, densitometric and statistical means. Prior to any testing and as a prerequisite for the project, the print characteristic of the Docutech is determined. With stable printing conditions as a starting point, the impact of the scanning process is investigated. For this purpose, four different scanners ranging from flatbed, desktop devices to high-end scanning systems are used to capture two test images. Those images are manipulated within this process step to improve the rendering quality of the printed output. The printed output is analyzed finally by statistical means to base the perceived quality differences on the objective judgement of a larger audience of observers. Focusing on the results of this evaluation process, one will find that the output quality can be enhanced. Not only are adjustments found which increase the perceived qualify of the printed result but also is insight gained into the printing process and its limitations. There is no doubt that the Docutech has its restrictions but its low cost and low quality image is not justified. It is possible to improve the output quality of black and white reproductions by applying the basic rules of image reproduction. Thus, utilizing the capabilities of this digital printing device efficiently, one can achieve satisfying output quality.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Computer printers--Evaluation; Image processing--Digital techniques; Imaging systems--Image quality

Publication Date

5-1-1996

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

School of Print Media (CIAS)

Advisor

Romano, Frank

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: TK7887.7 .S358 1996

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Download

Share

COinS