Perceptual consequences of retinal stabilization with a high-frequency LCD display

Several recent studies have shown decreased sensitivity when stimuli are immobilized on the retina, a procedure known as retinal stabilization. Because of the technical challenges inherent in this procedure, studies have either used fast-phosphor CRT displays or directly updated the stimulus on the retina by means of adaptive optics scanning laser ophthalmoscopes. Both display systems provide brief pulses to the retina, raising the question of whether this flicker contributed to perceptual effects. Here we report the results of retinal stabilization experiments conducted with LCD monitors at high refresh rates. Results replicate previous findings of high-frequency impairments under retinal stabilization. These data provide further support for a functional role of small eye movements during visual fixation.