pixel

Definition: (1) Picture element: the smallest, atomic, unit of digital imaging used or produced by a given device to create an array or raster of pixels which constitute the digital image. * Usually, but not always, square in shape. * Device may capture image in sets of three or four contiguous pixels but delivers image as a single, interpolated, pixel. * Also known as a photosite, pel. (2) Measure of image size, hence resolution, of capture device e.g. digital camera. * It is effectively the area of an image (length x width) in pixels: the larger the 'area', the greater the amount of data captured.

Previous Term: pitch  Next Term: pixel aspect ratio