USAF 1951 - for calibration of imaging devices
High resolution chrome markings
Transparent glass or white glass
PURPOSE
This USAF 1951 Resolution Test Target follows MIL-STD-150A standards set by the U.S. Air Force and remains the industry benchmark for evaluating the resolving power of optical systems. It is used for precise assessment of resolution limits in microscopes, cameras, scanners, and imaging optics. The chart is composed of grouped elements containing three-bar line pairs of decreasing size. The smallest line group that can still be resolved by the system defines its resolution threshold.
CONFIGURATION
PATTERN DESCRIPTION
Chrome on Glass – Standard Resolution: Groups 0–6 (line width tolerance ±0.8 µm)
Chrome on Glass – Medium Resolution: Groups 0–7 (line width tolerance ±0.4 µm)
Chrome on Glass – High Resolution: Groups 0–8 (line width tolerance ±0.2 µm)
Polyester Film – Standard Resolution: Groups 0–4 (line width tolerance ±4 µm)
Polyester Film – High Resolution: Groups 0–6 (line width tolerance ±2 µm)
The chart consists of bar triplets (one dark and one clear line = one line pair). These are arranged into elements and grouped by size. The system's resolution is determined by the finest group-element combination that can be clearly resolved.
Low-resolution PDF previews of the pattern layout are available in the DOWNLOAD tab.
LINE WIDTH (µm) FOR EACH GROUP AND ELEMENT
Element | Group 0 | Group 1 | Group 2 | Group 3 | Group 4 | Group 5 | Group 6 | Group 7 | Group 8 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 500 | 250 | 125 | 62.5 | 31.25 | 15.63 | 7.81 | 3.91 | 1.95 |
2 | 445.45 | 222.72 | 111.36 | 55.68 | 27.84 | 13.92 | 6.96 | 3.48 | 1.74 |
3 | 396.85 | 198.43 | 99.21 | 49.61 | 24.80 | 12.40 | 6.20 | 3.10 | 1.55 |
4 | 353.55 | 176.78 | 88.39 | 44.19 | 22.10 | 11.05 | 5.52 | 2.76 | 1.38 |
5 | 314.98 | 157.49 | 78.75 | 39.37 | 19.69 | 9.84 | 4.92 | 2.46 | 1.23 |
6 | 280.62 | 140.31 | 70.15 | 35.08 | 17.54 | 8.77 | 4.38 | 2.19 | 1.10 |
LINE PAIRS PER MM
Element | Group 0 | Group 1 | Group 2 | Group 3 | Group 4 | Group 5 | Group 6 | Group 7 | Group 8 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 8 | 16 | 32 | 64 | 128 | 256 |
2 | 1.12 | 2.24 | 4.49 | 8.98 | 17.96 | 35.90 | 71.80 | 143.70 | 287.40 |
3 | 1.26 | 2.52 | 5.04 | 10.08 | 20.16 | 40.30 | 80.60 | 161.30 | 322.50 |
4 | 1.41 | 2.83 | 5.66 | 11.31 | 22.63 | 45.30 | 90.50 | 181.00 | 362.00 |
5 | 1.59 | 3.17 | 6.35 | 12.70 | 25.40 | 50.80 | 101.60 | 203.20 | 406.40 |
6 | 1.78 | 3.56 | 7.13 | 14.25 | 28.51 | 57.00 | 114.00 | 228.10 | 456.10 |
BASE MATERIAL
The standard product is fabricated using low reflective chrome on soda lime glass. The surface includes a CrO oxide layer to reduce glare. Polyester film versions are also available for applications requiring flexibility or disposability.
TURNAROUND
Standard production turnaround is 5 working days from receipt of order. Expedited options are available on request.
INSPECTION
All photomasks undergo a comprehensive inspection process. Key parameters such as Critical Dimension (CD) and feature uniformity are measured and recorded. High-magnification images (Nikon MM40 at 900×, OGP ZIP 300 at 400×) are stored with production data. For sectors requiring compliance documentation—such as medical or automotive—optional inspection certificates can be included with the order.
Standard: Full inspection performed; no documentation supplied.
Certificate of Conformance: Confirms compliance with internal inspection standards.
Certificate of Measurement: Line width and spacing measurements from selected groups are verified. Results are documented and supplied with the target upon request.
Please see the TECHNICAL, DOWNLOAD, and FAQ sections for further information. If you still require clarification, please either email or click for LIVE SUPPORT.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: The standard pattern doesn’t match my requirements. Can a custom version be produced?
A: Yes. While the patterns shown are standard configurations, we can produce custom designs based on your specifications. Please note that pricing and lead times will vary depending on complexity and volume.
Q: What is the typical lead time from order to dispatch?
A: We aim to keep these products in stock for immediate dispatch. However, please allow up to 5 working days depending on order volume and current production workload. For urgent requirements, contact us directly to check availability.
Q: Can you provide a high-resolution image or scaled preview of the pattern?
A: Yes. High-resolution graphic previews can be emailed upon request. Please contact us via Live Support or email to receive sample files.
Q: Are other materials available for this product?
A: Yes. Standard versions are produced using low-reflective chrome on soda lime glass, but we can supply alternatives including quartz, Borofloat®, or other substrates. Masking layers such as aluminium, gold, or ITO can also be specified. Minimum order quantities apply for non-standard materials.
Q: Can the glass be supplied in different thicknesses?
A: Yes, alternate glass thicknesses can be supplied on request, subject to material availability and minimum order quantities.
Q: Can I specify exact tolerances or reference dimensions for inspection?
A: Yes. For customers requiring dimensional validation, we offer Certificate of Measurement services. You will need to supply a CAD file or annotated drawing identifying the features to be measured.
Q: Are these slides reusable or suitable for cleaning?
A: The chrome patterns are durable and can be cleaned with appropriate optical cleaning agents. Avoid abrasive materials. Reuse is possible depending on your application and handling practices.
Q: Is there a minimum order quantity?
A: There is no minimum order for standard stock items. For custom designs or non-standard materials, minimum order quantities will apply.