Graphic Credit

This web graphic was designed by Amrys Williams of MIT Web Communication Services.

The image is based on the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Color Bar test pattern, which is what most American television stations broadcast when they are off the air. Test patterns are designed to check color and image quality, and to aid in adjusting your television set for optimal viewing. The first test patterns were used around 1934. Probably the most famous of these images is the Indian Head test pattern, created in 1939.

An assortment of test pattern images is available at DisplayMate.

For a more in-depth look at television and test pattern history, visit The Test Card Gallery.

The MIT home page is an interactive site with the goal of informing and engaging the MIT community and visitors. The Spotlight, with a changing graphic that calls attention to the new topic, supports MIT's mission and reflects the diversity of MIT itself. It does not represent a single voice but rather many voices, showing the Institute in a full and evolving way. The changing nature of the Spotlight reflects this goal of diversity by integrating and showcasing a multitude of aspects of MIT.