Digital Radiographic X-ray Imaging

The PaxScan 4343R is a radiographic digital x-ray imaging sub-system

© Varian Medical Systems 34036 Rev A 12/08

®
Abstract The PaxScan 4343R Operating Instructions (P/N 34036) covers safety, setup, operation, and
maintenance of the PaxScan 4343R digital radiography imager. The imager is a component
sub-system intended for integration by a qualified systems integrator.

Technical If help is needed, please contact our applications support group by e-mail or telephone
Support at the following locations.

E-mail: [email protected]

ƒ United States
Varian X-ray Products + 1 800 432 4422 Phone
1678 So. Pioneer Rd + 1 801 972 5000 Phone
Salt Lake City, UT 84104 + 1 801 973 5023 Fax

ƒ Europe
Varian X-Ray Products + 31 62 33 66 020 Cell
Zutphensestraat 160A + 31 575 566 093 Phone
6971ET Brummen + 31 575 566 538 Fax
The Netherlands

ƒ East Asia
Varian X-Ray Products + 81 03 5652 4711 Phone
4th MY ARK Nihonbashi Bldg. + 81 03 5652 4713 Fax
10-16 Tomizawa-cho Nihonbashi,Chuo-ku
Tokyo 103-0006, Japan

ƒ China
Varian X-Ray Products Beijing Branch + 86 10 8518 2160 Phone
Oriental Plaza, Tower W1, Suite 1004 + 86 10 8518 2165 Fax
1East Chang an Avenue
Beijing 100738, P.R.China

1 © Varian Medical Systems

Notice Information in this manual is subject to change without notice. Varian is not liable for errors or
omissions contained in this manual or for any damages incurred in connection with furnishing
or use of this material.

This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. No part of this

document may be reproduced, translated, or transmitted without the express written permission
of Varian Medical Systems, Inc.

The PaxScan® 4343R is an associated equipment x-ray medical equipment with respect to
electrical shock, fire and mechanical hazards only in accordance with UL 60601-1, IEC 60601-1
and CAN/CSA C22.2 NO. 601.1.

CE Mark Varian Medical Systems’ imaging products are designed and manufactured to meet the Low
Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and EMC 93/42/EEC.

Trademarks Paxscan® is a registered trademark and ViVA™ is a trademark of Varian Medical Systems,
Inc. Microsoft® is a registered trademark and Windows™ is a trademark of Microsoft
Corporation. Intel® is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.

© Varian Medical Systems 2

Index
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Shipment Contents .............................................................................................................................................. 5
Intended Use........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Safety Warnings and Precautions ........................................................................................................................ 6
Explanation of Symbols ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Getting Started..................................................................................................................................................... 8
Connecting the Cables .......................................................................................................................8
Table 1-0 Cable Connection Details ..............................................................................................8
Figure 1-0 Cable Connection .........................................................................................................9
Software............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Software Installation.......................................................................................................................................... 10
Receptor Files Installation ...............................................................................................................13
Modes of Operation........................................................................................................................................... 14
Table 2-0 PaxScan 4343R Operational Modes............................................................................14
Default Mode..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Operation States ...............................................................................................................................15
Multiple Receptor Feature ...............................................................................................................15
Offset Calibration .............................................................................................................................................. 17
Preview Offset Calibration ..............................................................................................................17
Gain Calibration ................................................................................................................................................ 19
Table 3-0 Gain Calibration: All Modes ......................................................................................20
Radiographic Mode Gain Calibration..............................................................................................21
ViVA Mode Settings .......................................................................................................................................... 23
Image Acquisition ............................................................................................................................................. 25
Radiography Mode...........................................................................................................................25
Safety................................................................................................................................................................. 28
Electro-Magnetic Interference .........................................................................................................28
Electrical Shock Protection..............................................................................................................28

3 © Varian Medical Systems

Index
Environment Limits........................................................................................................................................... 28
Temperature & Humidity.................................................................................................................28
Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................................... 29
Cleaning, Disinfection, and Sterilization .........................................................................................29
Repairs............................................................................................................................................................... 29
Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................................. 30
How To Reach Us ............................................................................................................................................. 31
PaxScan 4343R Problem Report Customer Information................................................................................... 32
Appendix A ....................................................................................................................................................... 33
Interfacing Information....................................................................................................................33
Figure A.1 Block Diagram of the 4343R Imager ......................................................................33
Figure A.2 Schematic for “Expose Ok” and “Expose Request” Signal ....................................34
Figure A.3 Example Timing for 4343R Synchronization Interface ..........................................35

© Varian Medical Systems 4

Introduction

The PaxScan 4343R is a radiographic digital X-ray imaging device commonly referred to as a flat panel detector
(FPD). The detector together with image processing and command software, called Virtual Command
Processor (VCP) or Virtual CP, is designed for integration into a complete X-ray system. The imaging system
has three main components: The 43 x 43cm 139µm-pixel amorphous silicon FPD which houses the solid-state,
flat panel sensor, VCP software, and universal power supply.

Shipment Contents

Flat Panel Receptor Assembly

PaxScan Receptor Install CD
(Files specific to the receptor in the shipment)
PaxScan Software CD
Virtual CP/ViVA System Software L.04 (or higher)
External Power Supply AC/DC switching mode – (OEM)
PaxScan 4343R Operating Instructions

Immediately upon receipt, inspect the shipment and its contents against the Delivery Note enclosed with the
shipment for evidence of damage or missing components. Save all shipping containers in case a return is
warranted. If there is any discrepancy, please call the PaxScan Service Center at (800) 432-4422 or (801) 972-
5000.

5 © Varian Medical Systems

Intended Use

The 4343R is specifically designed for fixed applications where the imager is installed in tables, chest stands or
other holding fixture.

PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE USING. PRIOR

TO USING PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE WARNING,
PRECAUTIONS AND ADVERSE EFFECTS RELATING TO THIS
DEVICE.

Safety Warnings and Precautions

The PaxScan 4343R is designed to be integrated into a

complete X-ray system by qualified system integrator.
The system integrator is responsible for obtaining FDA
clearance for medical use.

No part of the PaxScan 4343R is intended to be

attached to a patient and/or to contact the patient.
Important:
It is possible that during normal usage the Receptor
could inadvertently contact the patient. The closeness
of the Receptor to the patient is dependent upon the
operator and the technique being performed.

All parts of the PaxScan 4343R are suitable for use

within the patient environment.

The 4343R is not intended to be used as a primary

barrier to X-rays. The user is responsible for insuring
WARNING: the safety of the operator, bystanders, and the subjects
being radiographed.

The metal enclosure of the 4343R must be connected to

WARNING: earth ground.

© Varian Medical Systems 6

Explanation of Symbols

On (power: connection
Caution / Warning Earth (Ground)
to the mains)
Off (power:
Alternating Current disconnection from the Direct Current
mains)

7 © Varian Medical Systems

Getting Started

Connecting the Cables

Connect the cables as described below in Table 1-0 and shown in Figure 1-0.

Table 1-0 Cable Connection Details

Step Action / Description

There are three (3) cable connections for the 4343R Flat Panel Receptor: (a) External Sync Cable, (b)
Power Supply Cable which is permanently connected to the power supply, and (c) Category 5 or better
Ethernet cable. The connections are described below.
1. External Sync Cable Connection
This connector is intended to provide the user with a means to synchronize the end-user system-level
application with the imager. This connector provides the connections for four opto-isolated signals,
(two outputs, and two inputs). The one output signal named “Expose OK” is intended to signal that
the receptor is ready for the generator to produce X-rays and the input named “Expose Req” allows
the user to trigger the panel readout. See Appendix A, diagram 1.0 for “Expose OK” and “Expose
Req” signal schematic. Connect this cable to the external sync connector on the receptor.
2. Power Supply
This connection provides power to the receptor. Connect the power supply connector to receptor then
plug into the main AC supply.
3. Gigabit Ethernet Connection
Connect the Ethernet connector to a gigabit capable interface in the user’s host computer.

4. Ground Lug
Chassis ground lug to acceptable ground connection.

The External Sync Cable Connection is user supplied

Note: equipment.

© Varian Medical Systems 8

Figure 1-0 Cable Connection

Accessory equipment connected to the analog and digital interfaces must

be certified to the respective IEC standards (i.e., IEC 60950-1 for data
Caution processing equipment and IEC 60601-1 for medical equipment).
Furthermore, all configurations shall comply with the system standard IEC
60601-1-1. Anyone connecting additional equipment to the signal inputs or
signal outputs as part of a configuration for medical equipment is therefore
responsible for compliance with the equipment standard IEC 60601-1. If
in doubt, consult our technical support personnel.

9 © Varian Medical Systems

Software
There are two CDs supplied with this product. The Software CD allows installation of the Virtual CP that
provides the API to the receptor, allowing control and image transfer functionality; see the Virtual CP
Communications Manual for more information. The Software CD also includes ViVA™ software which is the
viewing application used to perform detector calibration, detector set-up, image acquisition, and image
corrections in a Windows PC environment. NOTE: ViVA™ is intended to be used for development, testing,
and maintenance purposes only. ViVA™ includes file translators for saving image files in .viv, .raw, .jpg,
.bmp file formats and is Windows® XP compatible. A Software Developer Kit (SDK) including sample code
notes are located in the directory:
PaxscanL04\DeveloperFiles\SampleCode

The Receptor software CD is specific to the panel providing calibration and configuration files. Installation of
the Software and Receptor files is briefly discussed in the following sections. Refer to the ViVA Online help
documentation for complete details on installation and assistance operating ViVA™.

Software Installation
Begin software installation by using the run command under the Windows Start button, select Browse, My
Computer, and your DVD/CD ROM Drive that contains the PaxScan CD. Select the icon Setup.exe or
alternatively at the run command window enter drive location and file name, select
OK – will launch the PaxScan ViVA System Software Install Shield Wizard.

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Step Action / Results

1. For a normal install, you may simply accept all the defaults in progressing to the Install Shield
Wizard Complete screen.

11 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

2. Ensure the Open Pleora Installation Instructions is “checked” and select the finish button at the
Install Shield Wizard Complete screen will automatically launches a README file instruction to
complete the Pleora driver installation. You may only install the iPORT™ High-Performance IP
Device Driver if you have the Intel Pro/1000 adapter; this is the recommended configuration. An
alternative which gives lower overall data handling capability is the filter driver which may be
installed to almost any Ethernet adapter on the computer. If the filter driver is installed, make sure
to disable it on any adapters NOT used for connection to the Pleora. See Note below regarding
drivers.

Pleora provides three options for the Ethernet driver. For fastest possible operation
install the Pleora Performance driver onto the Ethernet adapter of the host computer;
Note: but, – this is only possible with specific Ethernet adapter – namely, the Intel
Pro/1000. Other gigabit Ethernet adapters may be used without noticeable loss of
speed for radiography (single shot) modes. Operation is possible with the native
Windows driver which requires no additional installation, however, performance
will vary depending upon the computer system. The Pleora Filter driver provides a
third option that gives performance intermediate between the other two. The filter
driver solution is better than the Windows driver though still not nearly as good as
the performance driver. We strongly recommend using only the Performance driver
for medical applications. The user must validate that any configuration used is
suitable for the intended application.

© Varian Medical Systems 12

Receptor Files Installation
Follow through the Install Shield Wizard screens to complete the PaxScan Receptor installation. You must restart
your computer for installation to take effect.

13 © Varian Medical Systems

Modes of Operation
The PaxScan 4343R supports the radiography mode of operation as defined in Table 2-0. In general, there is a
trade off between varying operation modes of resolution, or field of view, or cycle time, or noise. The
sensitivity of the imager is optimized to match the X-ray dose used in each mode.

The purpose of each mode is to configure the detector to achieve optimal performance during specific imaging
procedures. Modes are defined by a combination of factors, such as pixel binning, cycle time, analog gain, and
continuous versus single acquisition. Each mode requires a unique set of calibration files. Refer to the ViVA
Online help documentation for complete details.

The user can select the mode of operation based on image performance and cycle time. The following two (2)
modes are available:

• Reduce Cycle Time (RCT)

• Standard Cycle Time (SCT)

For either RCT or SCT the user has the option to retrieve a preview image – which has the benefit of having
preliminary view of the target object in reduced time.

The system may be in only one mode at a given

moment.
Note: Not every mode will be available with every system.
The OEM should work with PaxScan technical
support for configuration of the mode(s) which best
suit the customer’s intended application.

Table 2-0 PaxScan 4343R Operational Modes

Panel X-Ray
Cycle Pixel Image Frame Acquisition
Mode Scan Window
Time Binning Area Size Type
Time Time
Radiography – Full
6 sec 1x1 720ms 547 ms Full Field 3,072 x 3,072 Radiography
Resolution RCT
Radiography – Full
10 sec 1x1 720ms 547 ms Full Field 3,072 x 3,072 Radiography
Resolution SCT

© Varian Medical Systems 14

Default Mode
Mode 0 is the default. The default mode will be invoked automatically upon system power-up when a link is
opened or receipt of a reset state command. ViVA will normally remember the last mode used and select it for
future launches.

Operation States
The operational states of the imager can be categorized as follows:

• Radiography acquisition: (Radiography-type)

• Offset Calibration: (OEM-initiated)

• Gain calibration: (always-OEM initiated)

• Analog offset calibration: (always OEM-initiated)

Each operating mode employs all types of calibration. In radiography-type acquisitions, the PaxScan
4343R will acquire one frame with its respective offset.

Multiple Receptor Feature

The Virtual Command Processor software supports multiple connections to two or more receptors of the
same type; however, ViVA controls one receptor at a time. The receptor selection is changed from the
Acquisition drop down menu. This feature is typically useful in a testing environment.

15 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

1. Select receptor setup from the menu bar under Acquisition. Then select the specific receptor from
the receptor serial # drop down and click ok.

2. Select Open link Receptor under the Acquisition drop down menu bar to establish connection to the
PaxScan imaging system. For multiple receptors, completion of the single receptor setup is required
before additional receptors are available for setup in the serial # drop down.

© Varian Medical Systems 16

Offset Calibration
Offset calibration compensates for fixed pattern pixel intensity variations in the image associated with the dark
current and electronic offsets. The Offset reference image is an average of a series of frames acquired without
X-ray illumination and referred to as dark fields.

• Offset calibration should not be performed during X-ray.

• The X-ray-to-digital conversion factor does not change as a result of calibration.

Preview Offset Calibration

There are two types of offset calibration; one is used for the preview image and the other to calibrate the
final image. Prior to acquiring images, an offset calibration must be performed in each mode. This offset
calibration is used for the preview image. In addition, an offset calibration is automatically performed
after each single acquisition. The number of frames used for this offset calibration is based on the mode
selected – either RCT or SCT

Step Action / Results

1.
To perform offset calibration, click the ViVA icon launches the application

2. Ensure required receptor appears in the Mode drop down. The 4343R currently supports Rad 1x1
4pf. Then, click Offset Calib. button or select from the menu bar under Acquisition.

17 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

3. An accumulating Dark Frames window appears followed by an offset calibration acquisition

completion. Offset calibration is required for each additional receptor, respectively.

© Varian Medical Systems 18

Gain Calibration
To compensate for non-uniformities in the Receptor, a gain reference image (flat field) is used by the
Corrections module as required to correct all images. The flat field image must be captured by the Virtual
Command Processor (VCP) prior to acquiring images. The process of capturing the flat field image is known as
Gain Calibration.

Gain calibration is based upon the linear response of the Receptor to dose. Normalization is achieved by
applying the flat field image acquired during the Gain calibration to all images corrected by the VCP.
Normalization will fail with pixels that are responding to dose in a non-linear manner. Pixels responding to
dose in a non-linear manner are usually caused by the saturation of the Receptor, or a low signal-to-noise ratio.

It is critical to acquire the flat field image within a

range that is large enough to be higher than the
Note: background noise created by the X-ray source and
readout electronics of the Receptor, but lower than the
saturation point of the imager.

Flat field images acquired near or exceeding the saturation point will cause normalization failures with all
images acquired until a Gain calibration with the correct dose is performed. We recommend that flat field
images be acquired with a median count of 1,600 – 3,000. This range will ensure that Gain calibration will meet
both the upper and lower dose requirements under all modes of operation. Dose requirements are determined by
the settings of the generator X-ray source.

To reduce the effects of noise, the average of each pixel in the flat field image is calculated by accumulating a
number of frames into an internal memory buffer, then dividing the sum of each pixel by the number of frames
acquired.

Using larger numbers of calibration frames to capture

Note: the flat field image will result in more accurate
calibration.

19 © Varian Medical Systems

The number of calibration frames used during Gain and Offset calibrations can be adjusted under the Mode
Settings pull down menu. We recommend accumulating 32 frames for gain calibration and 8 frames for offset
calibration for optimal image quality. However, the actual number of calibration frames used must be
determined solely by the system integrator depending upon their specific performance requirements.

The general procedure for Gain calibration for all modes is as follows in Table 3-0 and described below.
Detailed instructions on performing gain calibrations are covered in the ViVA Online help documentation.

Gain calibration requires the production of X-rays and

Important: therefore certain precautions must be taken by the
human operator.

Table 3-0 Gain Calibration: All Modes

Step Action Results
To ensure proper warm up, the PaxScan 4343R Receptor
1. Warm Up must be operational for a least two (2) hours prior to Gain
calibration.
2. Offset Calibration Software performs a new Offset calibration referred to as
dark field acquisition.
Note: X-Rays must not be used for this part of the
calibration.
3. X-Ray Radiation A uniform flat field with no obstructions in the path of the
X-Ray beam. The radiation should ideally be at a level and
technique representative of the typical radiation dose for
the Receptor during typical procedures, keeping in mind
the general consideration outlined above.
4. Repeat The above procedure must be repeated for each of the
stored imaging modes.

© Varian Medical Systems 20

Radiographic Mode Gain Calibration
Radiography Gain calibration requires an Offset calibration performed prior to collecting the Flat Field
image. X-ray Illuminated frames are then offset-corrected and accumulated in the VCP internal buffer.

A series of accumulated frames equals one radiographic X-ray exposure. Exposures are averaged to obtain
the Flat Field image used by the VCP correction module. The number of exposures acquired can be varied
by clicking the Finish button after collecting the desired number of exposures.

Take the following steps to complete radiographic gain calibration.

Step Action / Results

1. Ensure the desire receptor and imaging mode appears in the Mode drop down.

2. Click Gain Calibration from the menu bar under Acquisition invokes hardware handshaking for dark
field calibration.

21 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

3. Use operator control to perform an exposure. Click Finish to Complete calibration.

Note: Operator Control is user supplied equipment.

Gain calibration should be performed at regular

intervals, typically once every three (3) months, or
Note: whenever the central beam of the X-ray source has
been moved relative to the Receptor.

Replacement of the X-ray tube will require a new gain

calibration to be performed

© Varian Medical Systems 22

We recommend accumulating 32 frames for gain
calibration for optimal image quality. However, the
Note: actual number of calibration frames used must be
determined solely by the system integrator depending
upon their specific performance requirements.

For additional assistance operating ViVA™, use the

Note: ViVA Online help documentation.

ViVA Mode Settings

The calibration and system settings are verified as follows.

Step Action / Results

1. Make sure the desired receptor is selected from the Mode drop down menu; and, that “Hardware
Handshaking” is “checked” from the menu bar under Acquisition. ViVA will remember your
preference for future launches

23 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

2. Select Mode Settings from the menu bar under Acquisition for Calibration and Frame Rate settings.
Frame rate settings are fixed. However, calibration frames can be adjusted.

3. System settings are verified as follows.

© Varian Medical Systems 24

Image Acquisition
Once Offset and Gain Calibration is performed, you are ready to acquire images.

Radiography Mode
The Radiography mode provides the technician with superior single-shot, higher resolution images, for
diagnosis.

Step Action / Results

1. Select required receptor from Mode drop down menu. The 4343R currently supports Rad 1x1 4pf.

2. Make sure hardware handshaking is checked.

25 © Varian Medical Systems

Step Action / Results

3. Select the Acquire Image button invokes imager to begin acquiring images.

4. Depress operator control fully to “Expose” position to complete image capture and retrieval.

© Varian Medical Systems 26

Step Action / Results

5. Acquired image can be saved in the file desired format by selecting File / Save As.

Note: Operator Control is user supplied equipment.

27 © Varian Medical Systems

Safety

Electro-Magnetic Interference

This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency (RF) energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to other devices in the vicinity. In any
and all circumstances; however, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to other devices, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the measures listed in the Troubleshooting section.

Electrical Shock Protection

• Compliance with UL 60601-1 and CAN/CSA C22.2 601.1
• External Power Supply – type: MPU50-336, ratings: Input Voltage 100– 240 VAC, Input Frequency 47
to 63 Hz, Input Current 1.35A, DC Output V1: +6V / 4.5A, V2: +24V / 0.5A, V3: -13V / 0.3A
• Class I

Environment Limits
Rigorous environmental testing is conducted on an engineering basis using a sample imager.

Temperature & Humidity

Category Limits
Storage & Transport (ambient) -20º C to +70º C

Storage & Transport Humidity (non-condensing) 10% to 90%

Normal Operation Temperature (measured at the center 10º C to 35º C
of the back cover)
Operation Humidity (non condensing) 10% to 90%

© Varian Medical Systems 28

Maintenance

Cleaning, Disinfection, and Sterilization

The flat panel receptor and connected cables are likely to be soiled during use. The specific material most
likely to become soiled is the X-ray grade carbon fiber input window and aluminum housing.

Cleaning, disinfection and sterilization of the input window should be performed as needed.

Proper disinfection and sterilization requires that a disinfectant/sterilization solution be used. Wiping the
surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with soap and water will generally clean the surfaces.

Repairs

No user serviceable parts. If repairs are necessary,

Note: please see How To Reach Us.

The least replaceable units (LRU) are:

• Receptor Assembly

29 © Varian Medical Systems

Troubleshooting

Problem Solution
Imager fails to respond 1. Check cables.

Imager causes Electro-Magnetic 1. Reorient or relocate the receiving device.

Interference 2. Increase the separation between the equipment.
3. Connect the other device(s) into an outlet on a
different circuit.
4. Consult the manufacturer or field service
technician for help.

Poor Image Quality. 1. Confirm that image corrections are all selected in
the Systems Settings dialog box in ViVA .
2. Re-acquire gain and offset images.
3. Assure that the exposures are appropriate for gain
calibration images (not saturated).

Software hangs up. Restart ViVA.

Acquired image is completely Increase the exposure and acquire a new image. If the
dark. image is still dark, verify that all cables are properly
connected. Turn the power “OFF” and “ON”. Acquire a
new image.

Out of virtual memory. Close some of the windows that are currently open.

Residual x-ray image from Charge on the sensor pixels from a super saturated
previous exposure shows in exposure may cause a residual image. It can be erased by
current image. taking another image or multiple images without X-rays
until the residual image is gone.

ViVA error message 1. Please complete PaxScan 4343R Problem Report.

2. Email the error log file generated to:
[email protected]. This log file is
normally found at C:\Documents and Settings\All
Users\Documents\DrWatson\ drwtsn32.log

© Varian Medical Systems 30

How To Reach Us
In order to provide you with the most comprehensive technical support, (hardware or software), please complete
the problem report on following page before contacting your Varian representative. If you prefer E-mailing the
information to us, a .pdf version of this form is included on the CD you received with your system. You may
also fax the completed form.

To speak with our technical support personnel:

• Call (800) 432-4422 or (801) 972-5000.

• E-mail the report to [email protected], or
• Fax a copy of the Problem Report to (801) 972-5023

31 © Varian Medical Systems

PaxScan 4343R Problem Report Customer Information

Date: Your Name Company/Unit Name:

Email: Phone Number: Fax Number:

Product Information.

PaxScan Part Number: Imager Serial Number: Software Revision #:

Operation I was trying to perform (be as specific as possible:

What happened (use additional sheets as necessary):

Fax to: (801) 972-5050 or E-mail: [email protected]

© Varian Medical Systems 32

Appendix A

Interfacing Information

All the interfacing connections for the Paxscan 4343R are at the panel itself. The Gigabit Ethernet connection
carries control information to the panel and supplies image data with diagnostic information to the customer
supplied workstation. The Hardware Synchronization connection (“B”) is a 9-pin D-sub type. Power for the
panel is supplied by a medical-grade “laptop” style supply whose dc supply cable “C” can be up to 3 meters in
length.

Figure A.1 Block Diagram of the 4343R Imager

33 © Varian Medical Systems

The synchronization interface to the panel consists of two inputs and one output, all through opto-couplers. The
expected inputs to the panel are Prepare and Exposure_Request. The output from the panel is Expose_OK,
which can be used to trigger the generator. This active low signal is used to identify when the panel is ready for
exposure. The 4343R panel currently ignores Prepare and responds only to Exposure_Request. The exposure
delay is defined as the worst case time between Exposure_Request and Expose_OK. The interface circuit is
shown below.

NOTE: The maximum input voltage on the opto-couplers used in the 4343R is 5V.
Refer to the TSM0505S datasheet for additional information.

Figure A.2 Schematic for “Expose Ok” and “Expose Request” Signal

© Varian Medical Systems 34

The timing of the synchronization interface is shown below. The panel is maintained in an idle state, until the
asynchronous Expose_Request is received. The Expose_Request signal is detected as a level and so the signal
must be maintained for a minimum of 360 msecs. When the panel receives the Expose_Request, the assumption
is that the generator is ready to make an exposure when Expose_OK is issued.

Figure A.3 Example Timing for 4343R Synchronization Interface

35 © Varian Medical Systems