Subfield Motion is a patented technology used in Samsung plasma TVs to enhance image clarity and reduce motion blur in fast-moving scenes. This term was registered as a trademark and was primarily found in models released before the discontinuation of plasma TV production in 2012.
Its operation is related to the principle of frame display. In the era of analog television, the frame rate was synchronized with the power grid frequency: 25 frames per second in regions with a 50 Hz frequency and 30 frames per second in regions with a 60 Hz frequency. With the transition to digital television, 60 frames per second became the standard, which corresponds to the capabilities of modern displays.
How it works and visual characteristics
This technology works only if the content’s frame rate is lower than the one the TV can display. Contrary to common marketing claims, this technology does not generate new intermediate frames. Instead, it displays the same frame multiple times per second. In some cases, black frames are inserted between images, which helps the human eye refocus more quickly and reduces perceived blur.
This method can cause the so-called “soap opera effect,” in which motion appears excessively smooth and less natural.
Marketing terms such as Subfield Motion 400 Hz, 600 Hz, or even 1000 Hz did not reflect the actual frame rate. In reality, it remained at up to 60 Hz, while the higher numbers were used primarily for advertising purposes.
This technology is now obsolete, as it was developed for plasma TVs, the production of which was discontinued in 2014.
