X-ray Machine and Equipment Fundamentals

• X-rays are a type of EM radiation that travels through space.
• X-rays are made when electrons are accelerated in a focusing cup.
• The more electrons that are in the focusing cup, the more X-rays will be produced.
• The focal spot of the X-ray tube is not always where the effective focal point is, which is why X-rays need to be focused using a focusing cup.
• The X-ray tube needs to be warmed up before it is used, and it should be used at a low mA and low speed.
• The x-ray generator has an anode heel effect, which means that patients usually lie under the anode side of the machine.
• The x-ray table has a uniform, radiolucent surface, which means that it is easy to see the image that is being produced.
• There are 4 different ways in which the top of the x-ray table can be moved, allowing for patient convenience.
• The x-ray tube supports are overhead and can be moved to accommodate different heights.
• The x-ray generator has compression bands that can be used to compress the x-ray beam.
• The x-ray machine has a deadman switch that can be used to terminate the exposure if the patient moves.
• The x-ray machine has a timer that can be used to terminate the exposure based upon a predetermined exposure value.

Test your knowledge of the fundamental components and operation of X-ray machines and equipment with this quiz. From X-ray tube functioning to generator features, this quiz covers a range of essential information for those working with X-ray equipment.