The term contrast ratio in the context of display systems represents the ratio of luminescence on the screen in respect of bright and dark images. Generally a high contrast ratio is desired to achieve perfect viewing of the screen display.
Consumers are now confronted with claims of superb degrees of contrast ratios attributed to the products by the manufacturers or dealers. As most of the consumers are not conversant with technical jargons concerning the products, they are made to understand that high contrast ratio is the singular factor that makes the product ideal and result oriented. Consumers who are more acquainted with the subject understand the concept better. The degree of difference between the bright and dark portions in the projected images should be high to obtain better display for comfortable viewing. For this reason the shoppers choose products with high contrast ratios.
But, experts on the subject are divided in their interpretations of the term and the methodologies adopted to measure contrast ratios by different manufacturers. At the outset, they categorize the contrast ratio as static and dynamic, while considering the subject in detail. The contrast ratios tend to change while displaying a static image and dynamic sequences in the same product. Such concepts and interpretations make it difficult to explain and assess the degree of contrast ratio in the product. Further it is pointed out that the mode of measurement differs from manufacturer to manufacturer and therefore the figures arrived at by them cannot be compared. The experts are of the opinion that unless the manufacturers reveal their methodologies adopted to measure the contrast ratios, the figures obtained cannot be accepted as genuine.
The level of brightness is very difficult to ascertain. Environment is important in this respect. Whether the degree of contrast is determined in a dark environment or in bright daylight is a relevant matter. Another important fact is that there is no recognized system to measure the contrast ratio in international context. It is also not mandatory to measure and declare the contrast ratio under international laws or under market regulations. It is therefore not necessary to consider the contrast ratio of television or other products as far as the consumer is concerned. The core issue is the performance of the product. If the quality of output as experienced by the viewer is good, it can be said that the contrast ratio is at a satisfactory level. In this context, the proverbial concept is apt. The colour of the cow is irrelevant, if the quality of the milk is good.
