The CAD industry can benefi t from 10-bit
imaging, giving extreme detail to this car
prototype created by Daniel Simon of Cosmic-
Motors Galaxion, using Autodesk's Alias 2010.
F
inally, 10-bit imaging has come of
age. A long time in the making, the
technology's newfound maturity is
sparking interest that extends beyond its past
niches and across a range of professional ap-
plications. To what can we attribute 10-bit
technology's rise in popularity? A confl uence
of recent developments in both the graphics
and display industries has created a tipping
point, one that is seeing an improved genera-
tion of 10-bit technology not only entrench
itself deeper into existing markets, but spill
over into new spaces, as well.
Off er customers a choice between 10 and
8 bits of precision, and with all else equal,
they, of course, will select the higher option.
And that explains the biggest stumbling
block to 10-bit acceptance: e two have
not historically been anywhere near equal,
not when it comes to price or availability.
Medical applications demand an increasing mix
of 2D and 3D images, in both 10-bit grayscale
and 30-bit color. Above, such imagery is being
viewed on a Barco Coronis Fusion 6MP DL
diagnostic display.
June 2009 32
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Trends & Technologies
