Doses measured using AEC on direct digital radiographic (DDR) X-rays systems: updated results with an RP 162 perspective.

As digital technology in diagnostic radiology systems becomes more prevalent, there is a need to provide comparative dose information for these new systems. This is needed in particular for testing the automatic exposure control (AEC) devices on direct digital radiography (DDR) systems as there is no consensus on the receptor dose level in the current guidelines. The new European Commission RP 162 document sets the suspension level for the overification of kerma at receptor entrance in computed radiography and DDR systems under AEC' as epsilon 10 Gy. This document also notes that alternate methodologies are acceptable, and may require adjustment in the suspension level if used. This study provides a range of typical doses under AEC for DDR systems, for a variety measurement methodologies, including that described in RP 162.