Why measure MTF?

Peter T. Carellas and Stephen D. Fantone

Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) has been associated with measurement of performance of optical systems from the initial introduction of linear system analysis to this field. As the demand for higher quality, higher resolution optical systems has become prevalent, both designers and metrology scientists have begun investigating MTF as a mutual mode of quantifying the performance of optical systems. This article identifies the reasons for specification and measurement of MTF as a system characterization tool.

Log in or become a member to view the full text of this article.


This article may be available for purchase via the search at Optica Publishing Group.
Optica Members get the full text of Optics & Photonics News, plus a variety of other member benefits.

Add a Comment