1.1This practice describes the evaluation of Computed Radiology (CR) systems for industrial radiology. It is intended to ensure that the evaluation of image quality, as far as this is influenced by the CR system, meets the needs of users of this standard, and their customers, and enables process control and long-term stability of the CR system.

1.2This practice specifies the fundamental parameters of CR systems to be measured to determine baseline performance, and to track the long term stability of the system. These tests are for applications up to 320kV. When greater than 320kV or when a gamma source is used, these tests may still be used to characterize a system, but may need to be modified as agreed between the user and cognizant engineering organization (CEO).

1.3The CR system performance tests specified in this practice shall be completed upon acceptance of the system from the manufacturer and at intervals specified in this practice to monitor long term stability of the system. The intent of these tests is to monitor the system performance degradation and to identify when an action needs to be taken when the system degrades by a certain level.

1.4The use of gauges2 provided in this standard is mandatory for each test. In the event these tests or gauges are not sufficient, the user, in coordination with the CEO shall develop additional or modified tests, test objects, gauges, or image quality indicators to evaluate the CR system. Acceptance levels for these ALTERNATE tests shall be determined by agreement between the user and CEO.

1.5The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.