Color
An image mode that scans an image as red, green and blue (RGB) light and can reproduce each one of these three colors in 256 distinct tones (8 bits). Since 256 x 256 x 256 = approximately 16.7 million, this many color tones are possible in this mode.
ColorSync
A color management system for Macintosh computers. Automatically compensates for color differences between scanners, monitors and printers. ColorSync requires that a color profile file be included for your specific monitor or printer.
Contrast
The difference between light and dark areas of a scanned image. Raising the contrast makes individual components of an image stand out more while lowering it softens the image’s overall appearance.
Dot
The basic element used to reproduce images. Images are reproduced as columns and rows of dots. A scanner’s resolution is the measure of the number of dots it can read and reproduce per inch (dpi).
DPI
Dots per inch. An expression of monitor and printer resolution. Measured as the number of dots per horizontal inch on monitors and the number of dots that can be printed by a printer in an inch. See also Pixel, Optical Resolution and Resolution.
Gamma Value
A function for adjusting the overall brightness of an image. A gamma value is the mathematical expression of how brightness data is converted from a scanner (the input) to a monitor or printer (the output). With 1 as the base value, a gamma value less than 1 makes an image darker, while a higher value makes it brighter. The brightness handling characteristics of monitors vary between manufacturers and models. A monitor’s gamma value explains the degree to which its output (what you see on the screen) varies from the input value.
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