dithering

(data, algorithm)A technique used in quantisation processessuch as graphics and audio to reduce or remove thecorrelation between noise and signal.

Dithering is used in computer graphics to create additionalcolors and shades from an existing palette by interspersingpixels of different colours. On a monochrome display,areas of grey are created by varying the proportion of blackand white pixels. In colour displays and printers, coloursand textures are created by varying the proportions ofexisting colours. The different colours can either bedistributed randomly or regularly. The higher theresolution of the display, the smoother the dithered colourwill appear to the eye.

Dithering doesn't reduce resolution. There are three types:regular dithering which uses a very regular predefinedpattern; random dither where the pattern is a random noise;and pseudo random dither which uses a very large, veryregular, predefined pattern.

Dithering is used to create patterns for use as backgrounds,fills and shading, as well as for creating halftones forprinting. When used for printing is it very sensitive topaper properties. Dithering can be combined withrasterising. It is not related to anti-aliasing.

dithering

Causing a displayed or printed image to appear more photographic by inserting shades of gray or color. Dithering simulates more colors and shades in a palette than actually exist.

While dithering cannot produce the identical results as having sufficient levels of gray or colors in the graphics display system (the color depth), it can make shaded drawings and photographs appear extremely realistic. See color depth, 24-bit color and halftone.

Dithering is also widely used to smooth curves and diagonals (see anti-aliasing).

Dithering a Color Image

An infinite palette of colors can be created by using varying shades in adjacent pixels. The right side is a magnification of the left.

Text Is Also Dithered

At the top of this example, the dithered word DATABASE is softer than the undithered word below. The magnified view shows the lighter blue pixels filling in the curves. Dithering on curves and diagonals is called "anti-aliasing."

More Shades Than You Think

At a quick glance, this Android logo appears to be solid green, white and black. However, the magnified view of one of the antennas shows otherwise. See GIF.

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Words related to dithering

noun the process of representing intermediate colors by patterns of tiny colored dots that simulate the desired color

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