A & P International
577 Locust St.
Prescott, WI 54021
715/262-5788 Fax 715/262-3823
Paul Montgomery - President

The purpose of an imaging test chart associated with any image transfer system is to give the user the ability to measure the image transfer quality in terms of numbers, which is necessary in order to eliminate wide differences of quality assessment that may result from subjective evaluations. This is true whether the image transfer system is lenses, television, facsimile, copy machines, or digital document storage. The PM-189 and PM-189T test charts are designed as standard measuring tools that give a user that capability.

The PM-189 and PM-189T give the user the ability to measure in lines/in. The image resolution that results from a scanner with a certain dots per inch (d.p.i.) scanning specification.

 These test targets are applicable for use on all type image scanner systems that operate within a range of 50 d.p.i. to 2500 d.p.i.; examples are facsimile machines and digital image storage systems.

 The PM-189 and PM-189T test targets exceed all the black and white specifications as recommended by AIIM in their MS44-1988 proposal except as explained in the following:

1. Because it is nearly impossible to maintain consistent gray scale levels at the same time that high resolution images are maintained on the same paper, we elected to keep the high resolution precision as reflected in all characters and patterns on the PM-189 and provide as an option, a 37 step paste-on density scale. The PM-189D designates a PM-189 test chart with the gray scale add-on.
2. The examples of typewriter characters, hand writing, different size type characters, and different size mesh half tones are photographic reproductions instead of printed reproductions. The photographic reproductions were purposely used because we believe that a good reference standard should incorporate the sharpest images possible, which would not be the case with printed material. The photographic process, in this case, also assures identical patterns from one test target to the next, which is an important consideration in any standard reference.

 The quality and consistency from one test chart to the next is guaranteed by the individual inspection that is given to each target. Each target is certified by a live signature, which attests to the inspection and guarantee. In addition, the live signature makes it readily apparent to the users whether they have an original chart or an inferior copy.

 We believe the users will find the PM-189 and PM-189T targets to be true "bench marks" for measuring the performance and changes in performance of their scanner, monitor display, and printer. It is these precision measuring tools that other targets will be compared against.

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ã A & P International 2008