Most scanners have a maximum pixel-per-inch resolution before they start guessing or interpolating the data. Interpolated files require the computer to simulate data in an image file, while uninterpolated files hold only data that is accurate to the original. Uninterpolated resolution is, therefore, preferred for accurate scanning.

Software programs can enlarge image resolution beyond the actual resolution by adding extra pixels using complex mathematic calculations. See "Resolution" below

Interpolated images are those that have been given enlarged resolutions, using a combination of software and those complicated algorithms.

Inserted in, or added to, the original; introduced; foisted in; changed by the insertion of new or spurious matter.

Introduced or determined by interpolation; as, interpolated quantities or numbers.

The estimation of unknown intermediate values from known discrete values of a dependent variable.

Provided with necessary interpolations; as, an interpolated table.