Dynamic Range in Ultrasound Physics

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary terms and concepts related to dynamic range in ultrasound physics as discussed in the lecture.

Dynamic Range

A method of measuring the extent to which a signal can vary and still maintain accuracy.

Dynamic Range Units

Reported in units of decibels ($dB$), which represent the ratio between the largest and smallest signals that are measured accurately.

Threshold

The minimum level at which a signal can be accurately detected; signals below this level are typically considered noise.

Compression

A technique that reduces the dynamic range of a signal without introducing errors, allowing it to match the dynamic range capabilities of different system components.

Bistable Image

An image with a narrow dynamic range that only displays two shades, typically black and white.

Gray Scale Image

An image with a wide dynamic range containing many shades of gray.

Dynamic Range of a Transducer

The component with the widest dynamic range in the system, often reported to be around $120\text{ dB}$.

Narrow Dynamic Range

Indicates fewer choices and fewer shades of gray, which results in a higher contrast image.

Wide Dynamic Range

Indicates many choices and multiple shades of gray, resulting in a lower contrast image.

Inaccuracy in Signal Processing

Occurs when a component with a narrower dynamic range attempts to process signals from a component with a wider dynamic range.

Mathematics of Compression

Involves the addition or subtraction of decibel ($dB$) values to calculate the final dynamic range after the compression process.