Definitions for "Error Diffusion"
A technique for removing some of the artifacts produced during the dithering process. In its most common form, Floyd-Steinberg error diffusion, this technique involves (1) determining the amount of error produced in dithering a particular pixel and (2) distributing fractions of that error to the pixels to the right of and below the pixel just dithered.
Error diffusion blends individual colored dots with the colors of the surrounding dots to create the appearance of natural colors. By blending colored dots, the printer can achieve excellent colors and subtle color gradation. This method is best suited for printing documents that contain detailed graphics or photographic images.
In actuality, error diffusion is a random dot-placement strategy (or dithering method), spreading out the inherent failing until it is indistinguishable to the naked eye.