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ISF calibration (as the process is known) is the correct alignment of certain variables in the playback device (the TV, video processor/projector or monitor) to match those same characteristics in the encode device (the  ATSC encoder and monitor at the source). And a typical home theater adds additional variables of sources, cables, switchers and environment to the mix of things to account for, what is now, a system alignment.  The variables we look at are: White level, black level, saturation, hue, edge enhancement, color temperature, grayscale tracking and color decoder output levels. Other parameters that effect  picture quality are:  Focus, geometry and convergence issues, are not, strictly speaking, calibration.  All types of video technologies can benefit from proper calibration for best picture quality and enjoyment.
 

What does a calibrationist do?

A calibrationist uses a series of test patterns and special instruments (color analyzers in conjunction with optical comparators) to set the above mentioned variables on a TV, monitor or projection system for maximum fidelity within the environmental and chassis constraints. SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers) specifications are the basis for determining the optimum settings. Adjustments are made to both the external (user) controls and the internal (factory/service) controls. Some sets are opened to access the factory controls, others have coded remote access to these controls.

Calibrating in the professional world is relatively simple as the equipment generally performs to SMPTE specifications. (A good reason that HD production monitors cost $1000/inch!)  In the consumer world, a good calibration is part science and part art due to various limitations in the set. The best calibrators understand a set's particular limitations and practice the 'art of the possible'.

How do you know if you're hiring one of the best calibrators instead of one that has been through class and can "do it"?  Since many are trained and few prove to be artists, you need to ask questions and investigate their background. Look for experience, credentials and industry referrals.

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What difference will a calibration make?

A set that is calibrated is "tweaked" or "tuned up" so that it performs more like a professional broadcast monitor to deliver "High Fidelity Video".

Since most people have never seen a TV operate the way it is supposed to, the improvement in image fidelity and resolution is obvious. With a good set, HD or DVD source material and a good environment, the difference is nothing less than dramatic. When people see the results, we often hear something like "Wow, I had no idea it could look that good". (And if you think calibrated NTSC looks good, then calibrated ATSC (HighDef) will really get your attention!)

Consumer televisions are set for the harshest retail lighting conditions a manufacturer can imagine, not a good home viewing environment and your system. These settings result in noisy, distorted, harsh and unreal color pictures that are so common, most people think that's the way TV is supposed to look. (It is not supposed to look like that! In the production world it NEVER looks like that.) Production video has more in common with film than it does typical consumer video. Properly displayed video has nuance and detail, with natural looking shadows, colors and skin tones. (Remember, optimum video performance (from most technologies) is obtained in low/no ambient light conditions. After all, the movies happen in the dark! If you have a "dual use" viewing environment, we will provide settings for high and low ambient light environments.)

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• Black level (set for the source, device and viewing environment)
• White level (set for the source, device and viewing environment)
• Color level
• Hue/tint
• Edge enhancement
• Colorimetry (color temperature and grey scale to D65 (or about 6500 Kelvin) as per ATSC broadcast standards)
• On the latest sets, many many more settings to verify.

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Consumer Televisions (PDP, LCD, LCoS, LED, OLED & DLP) *

Complete system calibration is $500 (1hr travel included - additional travel is $75/hr)

Allow 2+  hours for a complete consumer calibration 

Complete setups of high-performance projection systems, by quote.

ISF Calibration is among the least expensive upgrades available and has more impact!  Worth every penny when one of the most experienced calibrators on the planet is responsible for the outcome..  

*Panasonic Premier PDP's add $125

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Current consumer panels should stay within spec for several thousands of hours.  Your mileage may vary. 
 

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