X-ray devices are one of the cornerstones of radiological diagnosis processes. The correct operation of these devices directly affects not only the user but also the reliability of the service provided to the patient. However, a decrease in the performance of the device may be observed over time. The most common reasons for these decreases include calibration deficiencies and technical malfunctions. Therefore, x-ray device calibration and troubleshooting processes are of great importance in order to ensure regular and high-quality operation of the device.
Calibration is the process of adjusting the radiation intensity, exposure time and image quality produced by the device according to certain standards. During this process, the tube voltage, current and beam homogeneity of the device are tested and the system is brought to optimum values. Improper calibration process results in either unnecessary high dose radiation or insufficient images.
The x-ray calibration process includes the following steps:
Test shooting is performed with imaging phantoms.
The exposure values are compared with the image obtained.
Measurement is performed with a radiation dosimeter.
Voltage and amperage settings are optimized via the device software.
Reporting is performed after the test shooting.
Other than calibration, the most common errors encountered in devices include; x-ray tube failure, detector failures, software crashes, connector contact failures and table movement system failures. These failures not only reduce image quality but can also cause the device to be completely disabled.
Anod produces both software and hardware-based solutions in the calibration and troubleshooting services it offers to x-ray device users. The company provides on-site service with its technical team, performs a detailed analysis of the device and fixes the problems in a minimum time.
The troubleshooting process usually proceeds as follows:
Detailed notification of the failure by the user
Checking the software system of the device and analyzing the error codes
Testing of the physical components (tube, connector, cable, cooling system)
Repair of the faulty component or replacement with x-ray spare parts
Test shooting after service and recalibration of the device
In some cases, the performance degradation of the device may not be due to a single component. For example, x-ray tube failure usually manifests itself with spots on the image or sudden shutdowns during exposure. However, if there are software synchronization errors at the same time, this indicates a larger system problem. For this reason, Anod evaluates the device as a whole and provides comprehensive intervention.
X-ray devices often work together with computerized tomography, mammography, x-ray and angiography systems. In these integrated systems, a fault in one component can also affect the performance of other devices. These connections should also be checked during the calibration and troubleshooting process.
In the report presented to the user after the service, the operations performed, the replaced parts, the performance values of the device and the recommended next maintenance date are specified in detail. Thus, the user clearly knows which stages their device has gone through and at what intervals maintenance should be performed.
As a result, x-ray device calibration and troubleshooting processes should be performed not only to eliminate malfunctions, but also to ensure the long-lasting and reliable operation of the device. Anod manages these processes with its expert staff and systematic service structure, thus ensuring the quality of healthcare services.