Applying high performance digital instrumentation for video test applications

Video imaging and high performance displays have become common-place in a broad spectrum of products - ranging from consumer to industrial including military-aerospace applications. With the advent of new digital video standards, new demands are being placed on the test systems and instrumentation that are used to test and support these complex systems. In the past, test systems have relied upon ldquoboxrdquo video generators to evaluate monitors and video processing equipment. However, with the advent of sophisticated imaging sensors and processors and the transition from analog to digital based high-definition video, more advanced techniques and instrumentation are needed. Todaypsilas test techniques are incorporating high performance digital instrumentation in conjunction with software and specialized ldquovideo adaptationrdquo hardware to support the generation and analysis of high definition video signals. This paper provides an overview of the capabilities and requirements needed to support the testing and maintenance of video imaging, sensors, and processors that employ digital video interfaces.