Mac Gamma

[Richard Gaskin]

Martin Baxter wrote:

>> Richard Gaskin wrote:
>> I've long wondered:  does the Mac use the non-standard gamma for an
>> objectively verifiable benefit, or was this just another Jobs thang?
> 
> As I understand it, standard RGB monitor gamma (as defined by the hardware)
> gives a non-linear brightness response to voltage. Hence mid grey value
> 127,127,127 would appear on the monitor noticeably lighter than 'mid grey'.
> 
> Mac gamma attempts to compensate for this so that increases in numeric
> tonal value produces a linear increase in screen brightness.
> 
> So IMO it's a case of the Mac got it right in this case, but unfortunately
> 'most computer users' don't seem bothered if 'dark blue' (#000033) looks
> indistinguishable from black (#000000), near enough seems to be good
> enough, ho hum.

Excellent explanation, Martin - thank you.

Seems my friend's distinction seems to hold true:  differences between Mac
OS and the rest of the world that started before NeXT have a logical basis.
;)

-- 
 Richard Gaskin 
 Fourth World Media Corporation
 Developer of WebMerge 2.1: Publish any database on any site
 ___________________________________________________________
 Ambassador at FourthWorld.com       http://www.FourthWorld.com
 Tel: 323-225-3717                       AIM: FourthWorldInc