Tried and Tested: Resolution Test

For measuring image resolution of still cameras, we used the I3A/ISO Camera Resolution Chart that meets the ISO-12233 standard. Results from this test enabled us to form an objective and qualitative appraisal on performance such as the resolving power of the image sensor and the lens quality as a whole.

ISO Resolution Chart for Electronic Still Cameras

The numbers labeled on the chart signify a 1/100-line per picture height. Therefore, a value of 10 would mean 1000 lines per picture height (LPH). From a series of images taken at differing apertures, the sharpest image was selected and as the resolution test shot shows, it was generally of high quality. Fine lines were still visible pass 1900 LPH on both horizontal and vertical lines per picture height. These results were actually not far behind from those previously produced by the more expensive Nikon D200, so that says quite a bit of the D80's capability where image resolution is concerned.