[data structures]
In raster datasets, a method of multi-scale image processing that copies the original data in decreasing levels of resolution to enhance performance. The coarsest level of resolution is used to quickly draw the entire dataset; subsequent more detailed layers are drawn at fast speeds, since fewer pixels are required.
[digital image processing]
In image processing, a reduced resolution dataset stored with imagery that is used to read and display imagery at lower resolutions as a means to increase display performance.