Revised 08/2022

RAD 255 - Radiographic Equipment (3 CR.)

Course Description

Studies principles and operation of general and specialized X-ray equipment. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to familiarize the student with the physical construction and operation of radiographic and fluoroscopic x-ray units.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: Admission into the Radiography Program, RAD 141, RAD142 or equivalent.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Describe the electrical system associated with a standard radiographic unit.
  • Describe the construction and purpose of the high-tension generator(transformer).
  • Describe the construction and purpose of the rectification circuit.
  • Describe the components and purpose of the exposure timing system.
  • Diagram and identify the components of a standard rotating anode x-ray tube.
  • Describe the components and purpose of mobile x-ray units, to include
    • Portable radiographic unit
    • C-arm fluoroscopic unit
  • Describe the components and purpose of an image intensification tube.
  • Describe the theory and principles of body plane radiography (tomography).
  • Identify the principal components of a mammography unit.
  • Describe the theory and components of a digital radiographic system.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • The Electrical System and Mains Supply
  • Components and Controls in X-ray Circuits
  • High Tension Generators
  • Fuses, Switches, and Interlocks
  • Exposure Switches and Timers
  • X-ray Tubes.
  • Portable and Mobile X-ray Units
  • Fluoroscopy and Image Intensifiers
  • Tomographic Equipment
  • Specialized Radiographic Equipment
  • Digital Imaging Systems

Optional Topics

General care and testing of radiographic equipment.