Originally posted by Bob 256 There really aren't any "color pixels". Each monitor pixel is just a "pixel" which is produced by data containing the three data groups for R, G, and B data. I think you might be referring to Bayer layer pixels in their pre-processed form. Prior to processing only one color per pixel is involved so directly out of the sensor, the pixel data represents only one color per pixel. Sets of Bayer pixels are used in an algorithm to obtain data for a replacement pixel with three sets of color information in it. The 36.4 Mpx in a K-1 is initially representative of only one color per pixel, but these are processed to yield 36.4 Mpx, each containing R, G, & B values. Hence, a K-1 image file contains 36.4 ("tri-color") MPixels. The fact that they have been derived from Bayer sets of pixels has issues (not so true when using pixel shift), but there are in fact 36.4Mpx, each carrying RGB info in the final result. Each of those is basically compatible with a display pixel in terms of color information.
I cant agree. On the sensor, each pixel only consists of true scene data in a single color. The other two primary colors in that pixel dont have any true color information or resolving information. Its only interpolated from neigbouring pixels that have those colors resolved. Comparing bayer to the older foveon sensors that have three colors in each pixel, the bayer truly have less resolving power on the pixel level, due to this interpolation. Its also possible to explain mathematically.
On the display side its another story. Each pixel have 3 colors, but its not a uniform pixel where all colors are presented at the same whole area. Each color covers only 1/3 of the pixel area (usually) and their position are 1/3 pixel shifted relative to each other (usually). In other words, details on the pixel level are skewed somewhat. This is what causes color fringing on small b/w text on displays when not using windows with the correct clear view settings. Or similar technologies that try to compensate for the shifted position of the colors.
Ideally we should have foveon sensors capturing 3 colors in each pixel and then a display which have all three colors covering the whole area of each pixel.
Or alternatively, a bayer sensor with a display with a sub-pixel matching bayer pattern.