Measurement of the Performance Characteristics of Diagnostic X-Ray Systems

This report gives guidance on commissioning and routine quality control (QC) for Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Radiography (DR) systems. The report describes the various digital detectors and fundamental factors required to undertake high quality QC tests. The QC protocols for CR and DR are based on familiar procedures and use equipment generally available to medical physics staff. Digital radiography allows the potential for developing more detailed testing regimes using quantitative measurements such as modulation transfer function (MTF) and noise power spectra (NPS). These tests are described with tolerances and could potentially replace existing QC tests. Setting up an optimised automatic exposure control system for digital imaging is challenging. This report lays out a framework for adjusting an AEC and undertaking routine QC. This publication is aimed at Clinical Scientists who are required to commission and undertake quality control of digital imaging systems, but is likely to be of interest to anybody involved in digital radiography.