Question

What is the difference between a filter and a post-process when creating whole scan images?

Answer

When creating a whole scan image, you have the option of applying image filters and post-processes. These are applied to the scan fields before they are combined into the whole scan image.

Image Filters

Image Filters (technically, filter sequences) are image processing operations that apply to individual fields. You create filter sequences using the Filter Manager.

Sequences may contain one or many filters. For example, a filter sequence may include the following image filters to adjust the image:

• Brightness
• Contrast
• Sharpen
• Gamma

The filter sequence is applied to each individual field image in a scan.

• Refer to uScope Navigator Filters for more information about the filters that are available.

Post-Processes

Post-Processes are more complex and sophisticated than image filters.

A process analyzes all of the images in the scan to determine certain aspects of the entire scan then uses the results of the analysis to bias or alter all images from the scan.

For example, a post-process could analyze the field images to determine the largest and smallest pixel values and expand the contrast of all field images using those values.

Two post-processes are available from the Create Whole Scan Image dialog:

• Flatten Background Process
• Level Background Process

Processes in Filter Sequences

In addition to the Post-Processes available from the Create Whole Scan Image dialog, the following processes can be added to filter sequences:

• Contrast Expand Process

Note
These processes can be added only to Whole Scan Image filter sequences.