Effect of Symbol Size and Dot Size on the Legibility of Dot Matrix Alphanumerics.

摘要

An experiment was conducted to determine whether the legibility of dot matrix alphanumeric symbols decreases if symbol size increases beyond some optimum. Previous research indicates that there is an optimum symbol size for printed text. This study showed that the legibility of symbols subtending a visual angle between 14' and 45' of arc was similar. The experiment also examined the effect of the ratio of dot diameter to between dot spacing on legibility. It was concluded that it is preferable to use a ratio where the dot diameter is equal to or larger than the spacing between the dots. As well, the data, in conjunction with previous findings, suggest that it may not be sufficient to use single alphanumerics to test the legibility of a display. If text is going to be used on a display then text should be used in testing the legibility of the display. (Author)