What is the Difference Between Raster Scan and Random Scan?

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Raster Scan and Random Scan are two popular approaches used to display images and pictures on screens. They differ in several aspects, including resolution, cost, modification, interlacing, and image rendering methods. Here are the key differences between Raster Scan and Random Scan:

  1. Resolution: Random Scan offers higher resolution compared to Raster Scan, which has lower resolution.
  2. Cost: Random Scan is more expensive than Raster Scan, which is more cost-effective.
  3. Modification: Modifications can be easily made in Random Scan, whereas making changes in Raster Scan can be challenging.
  4. Interlacing: Interlacing is typically not used in Random Scan, while it is commonly used in Raster Scan.
  5. Image Rendering: Random Scan employs mathematical functions for image rendering, while Raster Scan uses pixels for image rendering, making it ideal for creating realistic scenes.

In summary, Random Scan is known for its high resolution and smooth image rendering, but it requires more memory and has a limited color range. On the other hand, Raster Scan is more affordable and suitable for displaying realistic images with a wide color range, but it has a lower resolution compared to Random Scan.

Comparative Table: Raster Scan vs Random Scan

Here is a table comparing the differences between Raster Scan and Random Scan:

Feature Random Scan Raster Scan
Resolution Higher Lower
Cost More expensive Less expensive
Modification Easier Harder
Interlacing Not used Used
Line Drawings Straight-line segments Rectangular pattern
Refresh Rate 60 to 80 frames per second 30 to 60 times per second (interlaced) or 60 frames per second (non-interlaced)
Solid Pattern Difficult to fill Easy to fill

Raster Scan and Random Scan are two different methods used to display images on a screen. Raster Scan displays use a scanning pattern to draw an image, while Random Scan employs mathematical functions for painting the image. The most significant difference between the two is that Random Scan has a higher resolution compared to Raster Scan.