The Effects of Bandwidth Compression and Image Quality on Image Interpreter Performance

Abstract

It is known that poor image quality tends to degrade image interpretability. Previous research has shown that increased bandwidth compression also limits image interpretability. The combined effects of bandwidth compression and image quality are not known. This pilot study examined the possible interactive properties of transmission bandwidth reduction and image quality on the interpretability of digital electro-optical imagery displayed in "softcopy" format on cathode-ray tubes (CRTs). Fifteen U.S. Army image interpreters were tested in a field-deployed image interpretation facility. Their performance was evaluated in terms of completeness of classification and identification of military equipment, accuracy of equipment counts, and speed of interpretation. It was found that greater bandwidth compression and/or low image quality significantly degraded interpreter performance. The study also found significant interactions between bandwidth compression and image quality for speed and completeness of interpreter performance.

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