MHL Definition Stands for "Mobile High-definition Link." MHL is a technology designed for connecting mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to TVs, displays, home theater systems, and automotive interfaces. It was developed and standardized by multiple companies that make up the MHL Consortium. These include Nokia, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba, and Lattice Semiconductor. An MHL connection provides three primary functions: It transmits a full HD audio and video signal It provides electr...

Pixel Definition The term "pixel" is actually short for "Picture Element." These small little dots are what make up the images on computer displays, whether they are flat-screen (LCD) or tube (CRT) monitors. The screen is divided up into a matrix of thousands or even millions of pixels. Typically, you cannot see the individual pixels, because they are so small. This is a good thing, because most people prefer to look at smooth, clear images rather than blocky, "pixelated" ones. However, if you s...

LPI Definition Stands for "Lines Per Inch." LPI is used to measure the resolution of images printed in halftones. Because halftone images are printed as a series of dots, the higher the LPI number, the more dense the dots can be, resulting in a finer resolution. Newspapers are typically printed in a resolution of 85 lpi, while magazines may use 133 lpi or higher. Because the naked eye can distinguish halftone dots up to about 120 lpi, you are more likely to notice the dots in newspaper print th...

Dithering Definition Dithering is a process that uses digital noise to smooth out colors in digital graphics and sounds in digital audio. Digital Graphics All digital photos are an approximation of the original subject, since computers cannot display an infinite amount of colors. Instead, the colors are estimated, or rounded to the closest color available. For example, an 8-bit GIF image can only include 256 (2^8) colors. This may be enough for a logo or computer graphic, but is too few colors...