Things to Know About Microfilm Resolution

Resolution is the ability of optical systems and photographic materials to render fine detail of an object, and it is a subjective measure of the finest detail a micrographic system (camera, film and processing) records.

Highlights

• Under ANSI/AIIM MS23-1998 section 7.2, the inspector determines under a microscope the smallest pattern in which all five lines can be resolved in both horizontal and vertical directions
• Always use an original resolution target, not a copy

Factors affecting resolution

• Contrast of the original document or target
• Poor document or target quality (wrinkled, torn or dirty)
• Environmental conditions (temperature and humidity)
• Imaging system (out of control, dirty optics, poor mechanical performance)
• Insufficient contact between master and duplicating film during duplication

Resolution loss

There is always some loss of resolution from one generation to the next. The maximum loss should not exceed one pattern per generation (film to film or film to paper).