Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) Practice Exam

What does adjusting the brightness controls on a display primarily affect?

1. Color saturation

2. Black level

3. Gamma settings

4. Contrast ratio

The correct answer is: Black level

Adjusting the brightness controls on a display primarily affects the black level. When the brightness setting is increased, the darkest parts of the image become lighter, effectively raising the black level. This adjustment alters how dark the blacks appear on the screen, ensuring that shadow details are visible without losing depth in darker scenes. A well-calibrated black level is crucial for achieving a balanced image, as it provides a reference point for how colors and brightness are perceived throughout the display. Increasing brightness may lead to a washed-out effect if the black level is set too high, resulting in less distinction between the darkest shades. Conversely, lowering the brightness can deepen the blacks, enhancing overall contrast without compromising detail in the dark areas. Proper management of black levels directly impacts image quality, making it fundamental to settings adjustments for a high-performing display.