LightSpeed 3.X Technical Reference Manual - UM - 2302180-100 - 8

g GE Healthcare
LightSpeed 3.X
LightSpeed QX/i
LightSpeed Plus
LightSpeed Ultra
HiSpeed QX/i
Technical Reference Manual
CE 0459
Operator Reference
Direction 2302180-100
Rev 8 (07/05)
Copyright, 2005 by GE Healthcare
This page intentionally left blank.
Table of Contents
REVISION HISTORY .............................................................................................................. i-1

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES ................................................................................................ i-2
Chapter 1: BEFORE YOU START

User Information Description ........................................................................................ 1-2
Applications Help ................................................................................................................ 1-2
Chapter 2: X-RAY PROTECTION
Chapter 3: CT SAFETY
General Safety ...................................................................................................................... 3-2
Operator Console Ergonomics ...................................................................................... 3-2
Posture ............................................................................................................................................3-2
Equipment Adjustments.......................................................................................................... 3-2
Electrical Safety ................................................................................................................... 3-4
Regulatory Requirements ............................................................................................... 3-4
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) ........................................................................ 3-5
EMI/EMC Glossary Terms: ............................................................................................... 3-6
Emergency Stop .................................................................................................................. 3-7
All Systems....................................................................................................................................3-7
Emergency Power Shutdown ........................................................................................ 3-8
Emergency Patient Care During X-Ray ON: ..................................................................3-8
Restore System After Emergency Stop .................................................................... 3-8
Systems With Gantry Control Panels ...............................................................................3-8
Restore System Emergency OFF ................................................................................. 3-9
Systems With Gantry Control Panels Only ....................................................................3-9
Radiation Safety .................................................................................................................. 3-9
SmartStep Safety ................................................................................................................ 3-10
Table Float .............................................................................................................................. 3-10
SmartStep Scanning .......................................................................................................... 3-10
Mechanical Safety .............................................................................................................. 3-11
IV Pole Safety ........................................................................................................................ 3-13
Table Tray Safety .......................................................................................................................3-13
Systems With Metal-Free Cradles and Accessories ..................................................3-13
If the Cradle Fails to Advance:..............................................................................................3-14
Laser Safety: Warning Labels ...................................................................................... 3-15
Operator Console ................................................................................................................ 3-16
Location of Emergency Stop ................................................................................................3-16
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© 2005 General Electric Company. All rights reserved.
LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Gantry and Table ................................................................................................................ 3-18

Location of Emergency Stop ................................................................................................ 3-18
Prepare the Cradle/Patient ............................................................................................. 3-18
Prepare the Cradle .................................................................................................................... 3-18
Prepare the Patient ................................................................................................................... 3-18
Helical Safety ........................................................................................................................ 3-19
Cardiac Imaging Safety ................................................................................................... 3-20
Accuracy of Measurements ........................................................................................... 3-21
Reformat Plane Thickness ............................................................................................... 3-22
Lung Algorithm ..................................................................................................................... 3-23
Chapter 4: ACCESSING THE LEARNING AND REFERENCE GUIDE
Chapter 5: TUBE WARMUP
Chapter 6: DAILY FAST CAL PROCEDURE
Chapter 7: PREPARE THE SYSTEM
Chapter 8: CHECK DISK SPACE

Check Image Space ........................................................................................................... 8-1
Chapter 9: RESET THE SYSTEM

System Shutdown/Reset Procedures ........................................................................ 9-1
Chapter 10: STOP/START THE OPERATING SYSTEM

Octane Based Systems.......................................................................................................... 10-1
PC Based System ....................................................................................................................... 10-2
If You Turn OFF the MDC at the End of the Scan Day:.............................................. 10-3
Systems with Gantry Control Panels:............................................................................... 10-3
Chapter 11: GENERAL INFORMATION

System components: ............................................................................................................... 11-1
Emergency Stop: ........................................................................................................................ 11-1
Intended Use ......................................................................................................................... 11-1
CT Description ....................................................................................................................... 11-2
CT Operation Theory .......................................................................................................... 11-2
DICOM Print ............................................................................................................................ 11-2
X-Ray ......................................................................................................................................... 11-3
Tube Warmup ...................................................................................................................... 11-3
LightSpeed 3.X Theory of Operation .......................................................................... 11-3
System Characteristics ........................................................................................................... 11-4
Network ................................................................................................................................... 11-5
System Data and Control Flow ..................................................................................... 11-8
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X-ray Generation and Detection Details .................................................................. 11-9
AutomA Theory .................................................................................................................... 11-13
AutomA Theory ...........................................................................................................................11-14
Understanding AutomA Behavior ......................................................................................11-15
System Operational Modes ............................................................................................ 11-17
System Image Quality Features .................................................................................. 11-20
Current X-Ray Tube Capacity Effects Prescriptions and
Interscan Delays ............................................................................................................. 11-21
Focal Spot .............................................................................................................................. 11-21
Filament Selection ............................................................................................................. 11-22
Data Collection ..................................................................................................................... 11-22
Reconstruction ..................................................................................................................... 11-23
Helical Scan Data Usage ................................................................................................. 11-24
Channel Utilization Table - Full Modes ...................................................................... 11-24
Channel Utilization Table - Plus Modes ..................................................................... 11-25
Slice Thickness Full Mode ................................................................................................ 11-25
Slice Thickness Plus Modes ............................................................................................. 11-26
Cardiac Helical Slice Profiles .......................................................................................... 11-26
Calibration Scans ............................................................................................................... 11-27
Warm-up Required ............................................................................................................. 11-27
Data Storage ......................................................................................................................... 11-27
Image Display ....................................................................................................................... 11-28
Gray Scale .............................................................................................................................. 11-28
CT Number ............................................................................................................................. 11-29
Variables You Cannot Control ...................................................................................... 11-30
Pixels ......................................................................................................................................... 11-30
Pixel Coordinates ............................................................................................................... 11-31
RAS Coordinates .................................................................................................................. 11-31
Pixels and CT Numbers ................................................................................................... 11-33
Window Width ...................................................................................................................... 11-34
Window Level ........................................................................................................................ 11-34
Chapter 12: QUALITY ASSURANCE

QA Phantom .......................................................................................................................... 12-1
QA Schedule .................................................................................................................................12-3
System Performance................................................................................................................12-4
High Contrast Spatial Resolution........................................................................................12-8
MTF (optional)...............................................................................................................................12-9
Noise and Uniformity ...............................................................................................................12-11
Alignment Light Accuracy (Crucial During Biopsies) ................................................12-14
Prescribe the QA Series for Alignment Light Accuracy
- Phantom Section #1........................................................................................................... 12-15
Typical Results and Allowable Variations.......................................................................12-17
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
DOSIMETRY ............................................................................................................................. 12-20

General Information ................................................................................................................. 12-20
CTDI .................................................................................................................................................. 12-21
CTDIw ................................................................................................................................................ 12-24
CTDI100 Typical Technique .................................................................................................... 12-24
Other Dosimetry Information ........................................................................................ 12-27
DLP.................................................................................................................................................... 12-27
Dose Efficiency............................................................................................................................ 12-28
Scout Dose .................................................................................................................................... 12-28
Phantoms for Performance Testing ........................................................................... 12-28
Noise ................................................................................................................................................ 12-28
Noise ................................................................................................................................................ 12-29
Nominal Slice Thickness ......................................................................................................... 12-29
Sensitivity Profile ........................................................................................................................ 12-29
Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) ........................................................................... 12-33
Maximum Deviation ........................................................................................................... 12-34
Typical Dose 1020.33 (C) (2) i, ii and iii .............................................................................. 12-34
Dose Profile 1020.33 (C) (2) iv................................................................................................ 12-34
Performance 1020.33 (C) (3) .................................................................................................. 12-35
Radiation Protection .......................................................................................................... 12-35
Chapter 13: Performix Ultra X-Ray Tube Specifications
Environmental Specifications ........................................................................................ 13-1
Non-Operating Environment................................................................................................ 13-1
Operating Environment........................................................................................................... 13-1
Diagnostic Source Assembly ......................................................................................... 13-2
Leakage Technique Factors.................................................................................................. 13-2
Quality Equivalent Filtration ................................................................................................. 13-2
CT Scan Ratings ................................................................................................................... 13-2
Performix Ultra Tube Assembly .................................................................................... 13-3
Marking........................................................................................................................................... 13-3
Reference Axis............................................................................................................................. 13-3
Maximum Potential Difference............................................................................................ 13-3
Principle Dimensions (with mounting bracket)............................................................. 13-4
Weight (without mounting bracket) .................................................................................. 13-4
Performix Ultra Tube Insert ............................................................................................ 13-4
Target Material............................................................................................................................ 13-4
Maximum Potential Difference............................................................................................ 13-4
Dual Focal Spots:........................................................................................................................ 13-4
Target Angle ................................................................................................................................. 13-4
Rotor Speed .................................................................................................................................. 13-4
Anode Heat Capacity............................................................................................................... 13-4
Serial Exposure Rating............................................................................................................. 13-5
1-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Performix Ultra Tube Assembly .................................................................................... 13-8
Maximum Heat Capacity .......................................................................................................13-9
Maximum Tube Assembly Heat Dissipation..................................................................13-9
Focal Spot Modulation Transfer Function ......................................................................13-10
Chapter 14: SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Helical Low-Contrast Detectability — Statistical .................................................. 14-2
Axial Low-Contrast Detectability — Statistical ...................................................... 14-3
Dose Performance .............................................................................................................. 14-4
Axial Dose ............................................................................................................................... 14-5
Subsystem Specifications ............................................................................................... 14-6
Operator Console .......................................................................................................................14-6
Operator Console GOC1.......................................................................................................... 14-6
Host Computer ............................................................................................................................14-6
Image Processor .................................................................................................................. 14-7
Image Reconstruction Engine (Pegasus) .................................................................. 14-7
Image Reconstruction Engine (Global Recon Engine) ........................................ 14-7
8-Row Detector .................................................................................................................... 14-8
8-Row DAS .............................................................................................................................. 14-8
Table .......................................................................................................................................... 14-8
Gantry ...................................................................................................................................... 14-9
X-Ray Tube ............................................................................................................................. 14-9
Focal Spots ............................................................................................................................. 14-10
Laser Alignment Lights ..................................................................................................... 14-10
Maximum Output Power.........................................................................................................14-10
Power Supply ...............................................................................................................................14-10
Maintenance ................................................................................................................................14-10
Generator Subsystem Specifications ........................................................................ 14-10
Main Power Supply....................................................................................................................14-10
kV, mA, and Time Accuracy ............................................................................................ 14-12
Kilovolts...........................................................................................................................................14-12
Milliamperes .......................................................................................................................... 14-12
Exposure Time ...................................................................................................................... 14-12
Measuring Tool Variance ................................................................................................. 14-13
Accuracy Subject to Following Conditions .............................................................. 14-13
Measurement Basis ........................................................................................................... 14-14
Kilovolts .................................................................................................................................... 14-14
Milliamperes .......................................................................................................................... 14-14
Exposure Time ...................................................................................................................... 14-14
Environmental Specifications ........................................................................................ 14-15
System Cooling Requirements ..................................................................................... 14-15
Temperature and Humidity Specifications ............................................................. 14-16
Lighting .................................................................................................................................... 14-17
Chapter 15: Planned Maintenance
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1-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

REVISION HISTORY
REV DATE REASON FOR CHANGE

0 10-17-00 First Release for LightSpeed Ultra
1 12-5-00 Update for Scan Mode Name Change
2 5-15-02 Update for LS2002 Release
3 10-20-02 Update for LS2002 M4 Release
4 11-1-02 Update for New Information
5 03-03 Updated for New Information
8 07-05 WEEE Rules
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
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BEFORE YOU START
Chapter 1
BEFORE YOU START
Anyone who operates this system should have received prior training before they attempt
to scan or diagnose patients. This training should include medical and X-Ray education, in
addition to GE applications training. This guide does not provide medical explanations, but it
does suggest potential applications for some of the software features. It describes potential
Safety problems, and how to avoid them.
Everyone who uses this equipment must read and understand all instructions, precautions
and warnings. This manual should be kept near the equipment. Procedures and safety
precautions should be viewed periodically.
This Guide addresses three safety classifications:
DANGER: The most severe label describes conditions or actions which result in a specific
hazard. You will cause severe or fatal personal injury, or substantial property
damage, if you ignore these instructions.
WARNING: This label identifies conditions or actions for which result in a specific hazard.
You may cause severe personal injury, or substantial property damage, if you
ignore these instructions.
CAUTION: This label applies to conditions or actions that have potential hazard. You can
cause minor injury or property damage if you ignore these instructions.
Various parts of your system will have the icon. This icon on the equipment indicates
that the user manual contains additional information and should be consulted
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
This Manual uses pictures, or icons, to reinforce the printed message. It uses the
corresponding international symbol or icon next to the danger, warning or caution message.
For example, the upright hand with the lightning bolt across it warns of electrical hazards.
Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
Do not use the equipment if a known safety problem exists. Call your local service
provider and have the system repaired.
User Information Description

We have divided the current User Information into two parts:
• Learning and Reference Guide: The Learning and Reference Guide contains all the user
information required to operate the scanner. It has detailed information as well as
step-by-step procedures. The Learning and Reference Guide is displayed on the Display
monitor.
• Technical Reference Manual: This manual details safety information and specifications
of the system and includes power off and on procedures.
Applications Help
Although we try to make this guide complete and accurate, undocumented changes or
unexpected results do occur.
If you can't find the answer to your application question, you may call the Customer Center.
Use this phone number for non emergency purposes only, because you may not receive an
immediate response.
1. Dial 1-800-682-5327.
2. Select 1 for Applications Answer line.
3. Select 3 for CT Application assistance.
If your system fails, or you have an emergency, call
GE Cares at 1-800-437-1171.
CAUTION: This system was designed for use by individuals trained in CT system
operation by GE Medical Systems. Study the Safety Tab of this Manual before
you scan the first patient. Use the Index to find the section and page number
of an item of interest. Periodically review the Learning and Reference Guide
and the Technical Reference Manual.
1-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

BEFORE YOU START
CAUTION: Improper system usage could void your warranty. More importantly, you
could endanger your patients and yourself if you don't follow the correct
procedures.
Please keep User Information readily available.

Send your comments to:
General Electric Medical Systems
CT Application (NB-911)
P. O. Box 414
Milwaukee, WI 53201-0414
U.S.A.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-3

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
1-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

X-RAY PROTECTION
Chapter 2
X-RAY PROTECTION
CAUTION: Improperly used X-Ray equipment may cause injury. Read and understand
the instructions in this book before you attempt to operate this equipment.
The General Electric Company, Medical Systems Group, will gladly assist and
cooperate in placing this equipment into use.
Although this equipment incorporates a high degree of protection against X-Ray outside the
useful beam, no practical design can provide complete protection. Nor can any practical
design compel a user to take adequate precautions to prevent the possibility of any person
carelessly, unwisely, or unknowingly exposing themselves or others to radiation.
Everyone having anything to do with X-Ray must receive proper training and become fully
acquainted with the recommendations of the National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurements, and the International Commission on Radiation Protection.
NCRP reports are available from:
NCRP Publications
7910 Woodmont Avenue
Room 1016
Bethesda, Maryland 20814
CAUTION: Everyone having anything to do with X-Ray must take adequate steps to
insure protection against injury.
All persons authorized to use the equipment must understand the dangers posed by
excessive X-Ray exposure. We sell the equipment with the understanding that the General
Electric Company, Medical Systems Group, its agents, and representatives have no
responsibility for injury or damage which may result from exposure to X-Ray.
GE urges you to use protective materials and devices.
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
2-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

CT SAFETY
Chapter 3
CT SAFETY
This Technical Reference Manual explains how to operate the scanner safely. This chapter
summarizes the most important safety issues.
This manual addresses three safety classifications:
DANGER: The most severe label describes conditions or actions which result in a specific
hazard. You will cause severe or fatal personal injury, or substantial property
damage, if you ignore these instructions.
WARNING: This label identifies conditions or actions for which result in a specific hazard.
You may cause severe personal injury, or substantial property damage, if you
ignore these instructions.
CAUTION: This label applies to conditions or actions that have potential hazard. You may
cause minor injury or property damage if you ignore these instructions.
This manual uses pictures, or icons, to reinforce the printed message. It uses the
corresponding international symbol or icon next to the danger, warning or caution message.
For example, the upright hand with the lightning bolt across it warns of electrical hazards.
CAUTION: Observe safe exposure factors and operating procedures to protect your
patient and yourself from physical harm during contact with this x-ray
scanner.
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
General Safety
Observe the basic rules of safety when you use this equipment.
• Replace all covers before you use the equipment. The covers protect you and your
patient from moving parts or electrical shock. The covers also protect the equipment.
• Keep the equipment clean. Remove body fluids to prevent a health risk and damage to
internal parts.
• The table and gantry surfaces may be cleaned with a mild cleaning solution and water.
General purpose liquid disinfectant may also be used as necessary.
• Become familiar with the functional hardware, so you can recognize serious problems.
Do not use the scanner if it appears damaged or fails.
– Wait for qualified personnel to correct the problem.
Operator Console Ergonomics

To optimally use your LightSpeed 3.X and reduce the chance of physical strain and fatigue,
the following steps are recommended regarding how you use your operator console.
Posture
Correct posture is very important. To ensure correct posture while sitting at your operator
console, follow these basic steps:
1. Face the monitors and keyboard without twisting your body.
2. Sit comfortably erect with the small of your back well supported.
3. Position your forearms parallel to the floor, with your wrists straight.
4. Position the screen so that your eyes are nearly level with the top of the screen.
5. Keep both feet flat on the footrest, with your thighs parallel to the floor.
If you cannot comfortably maintain this position while working at your operator console,
you should make the necessary adjustments to your operator console environment.
Equipment Adjustments
Chair
Adjusting the fit and height of your chair is very important for comfort. Follow these basic
guidelines:
1. Fit the backrest snugly against your back. People with shorter legs might need a back
cushion.
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CT SAFETY
2. Set your chair height to position your forearms parallel with the floor when your hands
are placed on the keyboard. If your feet dangle, you need a footrest.
Keyboard
Keyboard height is also important. When typing:
• Your wrists should be as straight as possible.
• Your forearms should be parallel to the floor.
• Your hands and fingers should float over the keys or mouse.
Screen
• The recommended viewing distance from the screen is 18 – 28 inches
(45 - 70 centimeters).
• With your head straight, your eyes should be looking directly at the top of the screen.
• You should look at the screen straight-on, not at an angle from the side, top or bottom.
• Glare from the screen can disrupt your viewing and cause eyestrain. Do not face a
window, and position the screen at right angles to bright light sources.
Comfort
Comfort at your operator console indicates you've set up your work area correctly.
However even a well-designed area needs frequent adjustment, especially for different
users. Take the time when positioning yourself at your operator console to ensure your
comfort.
It is also recommended that if you use the operator console for extended periods of use
(several hours at a time), that you take short breaks to get away from your operator console
and perform simple stretching exercises to reduce the chance of fatigue.
Keep the patient in view at all times.
• Never leave the patient unattended.
• Stay alert to your patient's condition.
• Use the speakers and microphones on the table, gantry, and console to stay in constant
communication, even while you sit at the console.
• Follow the exam procedures explained in the Chapters 13 and 14 of the Learning and
Reference Manual. Carefully enter patient information and position before proceeding.
CAUTION: Incorrect data entries or procedures could result in misinterpretation or

misdiagnosis.
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Electrical Safety
• Avoid all contact with any electrical conductor.

• To guarantee safe, reliable equipment performance, prepare the site according to GE
Medical Systems requirements.
• Only allow people who know the proper procedures, and use the proper tools, to install,
adjust, repair, or modify the equipment.
• Use GE X-Ray tubes to limit the possibility of tube melts or poor images.
CAUTION: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS. REFER SERVICE

TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
Regulatory Requirements
NOTE: This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. The
equipment may cause radio frequency interference to other medical and
non-medical devices and radio communications. To provide reasonable protection
against such interference, this product complies with emission limits for Group 1 Class
A Medical Devices as stated in EN 60601-1-2.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment is found to cause interference (which may be determined by switching the
equipment on and off), the user (or qualified service personnel) should attempt to correct
the problem using one or more of the following measures:
• Re-orient or relocate the affected device(s)
• Increase the separating space between the equipment and the affected device
• Power the equipment from a source different from that of the affected device
• Consult the point of purchase or the service representative for further suggestions
The manufacturer is not responsible for any interference caused either by the use of
interconnect cables other than those recommended or by unauthorized changes or
modifications to this equipment. Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the
user`s authority to operate the equipment.
To comply with the regulations applicable to an electromagnetic interface for a Group 1
Class A Medical Device, all interconnect cables to peripheral devices must be shielded and
properly grounded. Use of cables not properly shielded and grounded may result in the
equipment causing radio frequency interference in violation of the European Union Medical
Device directive and FCC regulations.
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This product complies with the regulatory requirements of the following:

• Council Directive 93/42/EEC concerning medical devices when it bears the following CE
marking of conformity
0459
For a system, the location of the CE marking label is described in the system manual.
European registered place of business:
GE Medical Systems Europe
Quality Assurance Manager
BP 34
F 78533 BUC CEDEX
France
Tel +33 1 30 70 40 40
• Green QSD 1990 Standard issued by MDD (Medical Devices Directorate, Department of
Health, UK).
• Medical Device Good Manufacturing Practice Manual issued by the FDA (Food and Drug
Administration. Department of Health, USA)
• Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. (UL), an independent testing laboratory.
• Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
• International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) International standards organization,
when applicable.
General Electric Medical Systems is ISO 9001 certified.
This symbol indicates that waste electrical and electronic equipment must not
be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste and must be collected separately.
Please contact an authorized representative of the manufacturer for
information concerning the decommissioning of your equipment.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

1. Under certain atmospheric conditions, Electro-Static Discharges (ESD) of 8kV in the
vicinity of the Gantry Display and/or Patient Microphone Assembly may result in
degradation of system operation:
a) Non-Scanning Mode: Gantry Display may momentarily flicker. System operation
returns to normal when the ESD disturbance subsides
b) Scanning Mode: Gantry Display may momentarily flicker. The ESD disturbance could
possibly abort a scan in progress, requiring the Operator to select RESUME to
continue scanning when the ESD disturbance subsides.
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vicinity of the Operators Console front cover may result in degradation of system
operation:
a) All modes: Control of the electronic mouse may be disrupted, requiring the Operator
to restart the system when the ESD disturbance subsides.
vicinity of the Gantry Display, Patient Microphone Assembly, Gantry Mylar Window
Bands, and various exposed metal components of the Table and Console may result in
degradation of system operation.
4. All modes: Audible interference may be detected through the system intercom.
Operation returns to normal when the ESD disturbance subsides.
5. Under certain site configurations, Electrical Fast Transient (EFT) burst(s) (+/- 1 kV or
greater) which are capacitively coupled to the Operator's Console interconnect cables
may result in degradation of system operation:
6. All modes: Control of the electronic mouse may be disrupted (can't move mouse).
Operation returns to normal when the EFT disturbance subsides.
7. Under certain site configurations, Electrical Fast Transient (EFT) burst(s) (+/- 500V or
greater) which are capacitively coupled to certain system interconnect cables may
result in degradation of system operation:
Operation returns to normal when the EFT disturbance subsides.
9. Under certain conditions operating a cell phone in the near proximity of the gantry in
the scan room during scanning modes, patient data may be lost.
10. Under certain conditions, when the system is exposed to Radio Frequency (RF) levels of
3 volts/meter at the following frequencies: 27.11MHz, 40.56MHz, 433.92MHz, system
operation may be degraded:
Operation returns to normal when the RF exposure subsides.
a) Low signal: When the system is exposed to an external RF field, image streak
artifacts may be detected while scanning under conditions of low X-Ray signal, such
as when scanning large patients. Operation returns to normal when the external RF
field is removed.
EMI/EMC Glossary Terms:

ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC): The ability of an electronic system not to be a source
of pollution by electronic emission to the environment in which it operates. Both radiated
and conducted emissions contribute directly to the interference-causing potential of an
electronic system.
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ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI): The ability of an electronic system to function properly

in its intended environment, without susceptibility to interference from external sources.
Susceptibility is the capability of an electronic system to:
• Respond to unwanted electrical energy
• Operate satisfactorily, without degradation, and with a defined margin of safety
Emergency Stop
NOTE: Every operator should take a few minutes to locate the Emergency Stops on his or
her system before he or she scans the first patient.
The system has one Emergency Stop on the Console and one Emergency Stop with each set
of Table/Gantry controls.
All Systems
Press the EMERGENCY STOP button:
• When the system loses control of the table or azimuth drives.
• To stop all scanner motion, table motion and X-Ray.
• To remove the power to the X-Ray tube filament.
• When Emergency Stop is applied, the moving cradle and tilting gantry may overrun by
less than 10 mm and less than 0.5 degrees respectively.
NOTE: Press EMERGENCY STOP if the cradle, table, or gantry starts to move unexpectedly.
NOTE: Press System Emergency OFF (SEO) on the wall in the event of fire, flood, earthquake,
or if you see smoke.
SEO
Emergency Stop Locations
Intercom
Speaker
Emergency Stop removes power to

the table drives, gantry drives, and X-Ray system
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Emergency Power Shutdown

Your system provides two levels of emergency power shutdown:
• Emergency Stop: Disables all drives and X-Ray power
• System Emergency OFF: Removes power from entire system.
Emergency Stop: Each system has five EMERGENCY STOP buttons: one on the operator
console, and one with each set of gantry controls.
NOTE: If the cradle or table starts to move unexpectedly, press any EMERGENCY STOP to
remove power to the gantry, table, and
X-Ray system. Slide the cradle by hand to move it out of the gantry.
System Emergency OFF (SEO): Each facility should have a wall mounted SEO near the
Operator Console (OC).
• Press the red, circular SEO to instantly remove all power to the entire system, including
OC.
• The SEO removes power to the Mains Disconnect Control (MDC), also known as A1.
NOTE: To instantly remove all power, press the System Emergency OFF SEO switch on the
wall.
Emergency Patient Care During X-Ray ON:

• Press STOP SCAN to abort x-ray and stop gantry/table movement.
• Press PAUSE SCAN to pause scanning after the current scan completes.
• During an exam, the system pauses between scans if you Press any button on the
control panel other than the alignment lights. It stops X-Ray if you Press the same
button(s) during a scan.
• Select Resume on the screen to continue the exam.
Restore System After Emergency Stop
Systems With Gantry Control Panels

• Press EMERGENCY STOP to remove power to the gantry drives, X-Ray system and
Table drives.
– The Gantry RESET LED flashes about once every 2 seconds whenever you press any
of the system emergency stops.
• Press the flashing RESET LED on the gantry control panel to restore power to the
drives, X-Ray system and table drives.
– Emergency Stop: The RESET LED flashes about once every 2 seconds when you
press an EMERGENCY STOP.
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CT SAFETY
Restore System Emergency OFF

• When you press a System Emergency OFF SEO switch, you remove power to the Mains
Disconnect Control (MDC), also known as A1.
– Press the MDC START button to restore its power.
NOTE: Press the System Emergency OFF SEO switch to instantly remove power to the entire
system.
Systems With Gantry Control Panels Only

• Press the START button on the Mains Disconnect Control (A1) to restore power to the
PDU, Console(s) and subsystem electronics.
• Press the RESET button on the Gantry Control panel to restore power to the Gantry
drives, X-ray system, and Table drive.
Radiation Safety
NOTE: We cannot guarantee performance or safety if you use a non GE X-Ray tube, because
cooling and reconstruction algorithms depend upon the tube design. Radiation
leakage may exceed GE specifications when a non GE X-Ray tube is installed in the
scanner.
• Press and release move to scan from the console to advance the cradle during Auto
Scan.
• If you select Auto Scan during one group Rx, it remains ON for every group in that series.
• Stay behind a lead screen or lead glass shield during each X-Ray exposure.
• Use technique factors prescribed by the radiologist or diagnostician. Use a dose that
produces the best diagnostic results with the least X-Ray exposure.
• Never calibrate, test the scanner, or warm the tube with patients or personnel present in
the scan room.
• Amber indicator lights on the gantry display panel, and rear of the gantry, illuminate
during X-Ray exposure.
The scanner uses cooling and reconstruction algorithms specifically designed for GE
X-Ray tubes.
You risk two dangers when you do not use GE X-Ray tubes.
• A non GE tube could overheat and explode if the cooling delays do not meet its design
requirements.
• The images could exhibit artifacts if your X-Ray tube fails to conform with GE tube
performance specifications
NOTE: If you fail to follow safe X-Ray practices, or ignore the advice presented in this book,
you and your patient risk exposure to hazardous radiation.
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SmartStep Safety
The SmartStep option adds several components to the scan room. These are the In-Room
Monitor, Hand Held Control for table movement as well as image review, and the X-Ray
Control Footswitch.
Each of the SmartStep components is connected to the system by a cable. When using the
system, ensure that the cables cannot catch on anything when the gantry or table is
moved.
Table Float
During SmartStep the Clinician has the option to float the table between scans. When the
Table Float mode is selected, the table is unlatched and can be moved freely by anyone at
the bedside.
CAUTION: UNINTENDED TABLE MOTION COULD CAUSE A SERIOUS INJURY. TABLE MAY BE
BUMPED OR JARRED DURING AN INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURE. CARE MUST
BE TAKEN WHEN PERFORMING INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURES IN THE FLOAT
MODE. IT IS THE CLINICIAN'S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT THEY HAVE
CONTROL OF THE TABLE WHEN IN THIS MODE OF OPERATION. TABLE MUST
NOT BE LEFT UNATTENDED WHEN IN THE FLOAT MODE. ENSURE THAT THE
TABLE IS LATCHED BEFORE LEAVING THE TABLE SIDE.
SmartStep Scanning
SmartStep scanning allows multiple scans at one location for interventional procedures.
The system allows up to 90 seconds of scanning in one place. After 90 seconds, the
operator must prescribe a new scan to continue. The accumulated scan time from a
procedure is displayed in the In-Room Monitor.
CAUTION: Prolonged exposure to x-ray in one spot may cause reddening or radiation
burns. User must be aware of the techniques used and exposure time to insure
safe operation.
Clinician's working in the scan room should wear appropriate protective clothing. Lead
aprons, groin and thyroid protection, as well as protective eyewear are available through
the GE accessories Catalog.
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CT SAFETY
Mechanical Safety
CAUTION: TO PREVENT PINCHING OR CRUSHING OF THE PATIENT'S EXTREMITIES, KEEP

THE PATIENT'S HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM THE EDGE OF THE MOVING TABLE
TOP/CRADLE AND ITS SURROUNDING EQUIPMENT, OR BETWEEN TABLE BASE
AND SIDE PANELS OF TABLE. (TAKE SPECIAL CARE WHEN POSITIONING
OVERWEIGHT PATIENTS.
CAUTION: TO PREVENT PINCHING OR CRUSHING THE PATIENT, WATCH THE PATIENT AND
EQUIPMENT CAREFULLY AT ALL TIMES DURING GANTRY TILT, OR TABLE
MOVEMENT. IF UNWANTED MOVEMENT OCCURS, OR MOTION DOES NOT STOP,
PRESS ONE OF THE EMERGENCY STOP SWITCHES ON THE KEYBOARD, OR
GANTRY.
• Physically assist all patients on and off the table, and into position on the cradle. Return
the gantry to the 0 degree upright position, latch the cradle and adjust the table to a
comfortable height for patient loading and unloading.
• A green indicator lights on the gantry display panel when the cradle unlatches. Latch
the cradle before you load the patient. An unlatched cradle slides away from you.
– Press on the control panel to latch the cradle drive.
• Avoid any patient contact with the gantry during tilt or cradle movement (manual or
software driven).
– Once again, pay close attention to large patients; make sure you don't pinch skin or
extremities between the cradle and the gantry.
– Table Tape Switch: If someone or something touches the switches, the table motion
will stop and the table latch icon will flash once per second. To reset the stop, simply
move the table away from the obstruction.
• A green icon indicates the cradle reached a travel limit or encountered an interference.
– IF the table reaches a limit while you are using the controls, the interference light
turns OFF when you release the button.
– IF the light results from resistance, the light continues to flash until the you clear the
condition.
• Be especially careful when tilting the gantry or moving the table when the cradle
extender or head holder is in place to avoid driving these accessories into the gantry
covers.
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Clear an interference by changing the gantry tilt, moving the cradle, or adjusting the
table height.
• Check the lengths of all patient health lines (IV tubing, oxygen line, etc.) and make sure
they accommodate cradle travel.
– Position these lines so they cannot catch on anything within the patient vicinity or
between the table and gantry during cradle travel or gantry tilt.
• Do not use the table base as a foot rest. You could entrap and injure your foot while
lowering the table. Do not place your hands between the table base and the table side
panels.
• Don't place your hands inside the gantry cover when tilting the gantry. The gantry can
pinch or crush your hands!
Periodically check all accessories for damage and remove them from service if damaged
or cracked.
• Check the accessory attachment plate fixed to the end of the cradle. Repair or replace if
loose or damaged.
• Use the cradle extender to support the patient's head or feet during a scan study.
CAUTION: Head holder may crack, possibly injuring the patient's head or neck, if the
patient tries to brace themselves on the head holder during positioning.
CAUTION: Head holder is only designed to support 75 lb (34 kg). Ask patient to scoot up
into head holder or manually aid them into position.
• The metal free cradle extender supports up to 34 kg (75 lb); both of the metal free head
holders support up to 34 kg (75 pounds).
• None of the accessories support the full weight of a patient. If you sit, stand or
otherwise apply excessive pressure to these devices, they will break or come off the
cradle, and may cause injury.
CAUTION: The patient positioning straps provided with the system do not support the
full weight of the patient. Patient positioning straps should be used to aid in
patient positioning and are not meant to fully restrain the patient.
• The concentrated weight of short, heavy patients can cause the cradle to make contact
with the gantry.
– Make sure you don't drive the cradle into the gantry cover.
– Make sure you don't pinch skin or extremities between the cradle and the gantry.
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CT SAFETY
IV Pole Safety
Care should be taken in the amount of weight and ensuring that the pole is tightened prior
to use.
CAUTION: The IV pole may bend when excessive weight is placed on the pole. Ensure no
more than 4.5 kg or 10 lb is placed on the IV pole.
CAUTION: The height of the pole may move on it's own without proper tightening of the
IV pole extension collar. Ensure that the extension collar is tightened prior to
use.
Table Tray Safety

Care Should be taken with the weight and Objects placed on the tray.
CAUTION: The maximum allowable weight on the table tray is 9kg or 19.8 lbs
CAUTION: Objects that may be susceptible to tipping should be strapped down with the
Velcro strap provided.
Systems With Metal-Free Cradles and Accessories
CAUTION: Prevent damage to metal-free accessories! Carefully examine the metal-free

clasp assembly on the accessory and the catch on the cradle before
attempting to attach the accessory for the first time.
• To Latch an accessory:
– Align the accessory tongue with the pocket at the end of the cradle.
– Keep fingers clear of the cradle.
– Push the tongue all the way into the pocket until it latches into place.
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• To Unlatch an accessory:
– Pinch the two L-shaped parts together and pull the accessory out of the cradle.
– An alternate method is to apply a light force to the catch in the direction to pull the
accessory out of the cradle.
• Proper operation:
– Keep the accessory “tongue” and cradle pocket clean and free of fluids and debris.
– Keep the latch and cradle pocket area clear of sheets, drapes, pads or any item that
could interfere with proper latching and cause damage.
If the Cradle Fails to Advance:

• Check table height. The cradle won't advance until the table height permits it to clear
the gantry opening.
• Check the cradle latch. The unlatched icon lights on the gantry display panel when the
cradle unlatches.
• If you recently restored table power, move the cradle to make sure it latches.
Table Locked
• Table Load Capacity:

– up to 180 kg (400 lb) with +/-0.25 mm positional accuracy guaranteed
– 180–205 kg (400–450 lb) maximum allowed with normal operation and +/-1mm
positional accuracy
CAUTION: GE cannot guarantee precise location accuracy at weights from 180–205 kg

(400–450 lb).
• Move the cradle all the way out of the gantry for safe and easy patient loading.
– The cradle locks when positioned all the way outside the gantry opening. It clicks
when it locks.
– The green gantry display panel light on indicates a un-latched cradle.
CAUTION: DO NOT PLACE A PATIENT ON THE TABLE WEIGHING MORE THAN THE UPPER
LIMIT OF 205 KG (450 LB). THIS COULD CAUSE THE TABLE TO FAIL AND THE
PATIENT COULD FALL.
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CT SAFETY
Laser Safety: Warning Labels
CAUTION: THE LASER BEAM CAN CAUSE EYE INJURY.

• The following warning labels are located at the bottom of the Gantry cover:
CAUTION
LASER RADIATION
DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM
635, 670 nm LASER DIODE
1.0 MILLIWATT MAXIMUM OUTPUT
CLASS II LASER PRODUCT
LASER RADIATION
DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM
CLASS 2 LASER PRODUCT
• Labels on the front of the gantry warn:
LASER APERTURE
Do not stare into beam
• When using a 635nm laser assembly inside the gantry has the following label to warn
service personnel not to look directly at the beam:
AVOID EXPOSURE
LASER LIGHT EMITTED
FROM THIS APERTURE
CAUTION
LASER LIGHT – DO NOT
STARE INTO BEAM
PEAK POWER 1MW

WAVELENGTH 635NM
CLASS II
LASER PRODUCT
Tell head study patients to close their eyes before you switch ON the alignment lights.
NOTE: Closely monitor infants and infirm patients, and prevent them from accidently staring
into the beam.
• The indicator on the gantry display panel lights when you turn ON the alignment
lights.
• Instruct your patients to keep their eyes closed until you turn OFF the alignment lights.
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CAUTION: Use of controls or adjustments, or performance of procedures other than

those specified herein, may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
CAUTION: THE DETECTOR AND DAS ROTATE TO POSITION THE ALIGNMENT LIGHTS OVER
THE LASER PORTS.
• Keep your hands away from the gantry opening.
• Make sure the gantry side covers are in place.
• The gantry rotating base assembly could seriously injure or kill.
Operator Console
Location of Emergency Stop

Press EMERGENCY STOP to remove power to the table drives, gantry drives, and X-Ray
system.
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CT SAFETY
Image
Monitor
Scan Monitor
Bright Box
Mouse Pad
Keyboard
Mouse
Safety
Section Intercom
No. Function
Section Interface
Cable 1 Start Scan Button
Table/Scan
2 Pause Scan Button
14 Control
15 3 Stop Scan Button
Section
4 Move to Scan Button
7 5 Stop Move Button
11 10
8 6 Prescribed Tilt Button
12 13 9 1 7 Patient Speaker Volume Control
4 2 8 Autovoice Volume Control
5 3
6 9 Operator Speaker Volume Control
10 Speaker
11 Microphone
12 Talk Button
13 Autovoice ON Indicator
14 E-Stop Button
15 X-Ray ON Indicator
Keyboard Tray
CAUTION: Connections for the keyboard and mouse are accessible on the front of the
GOC1 operator console. DO NOT DISCONNECT OR CONNECT THESE DEVICES
UNLESS THE POWER TO THE CONSOLE IS OFF.
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Gantry and Table
Location of Emergency Stop

Systems with Gantry Control Panels
SEO
Emergency Stop Locations
Intercom
Speaker
Emergency Stop removes power to

the table drives, gantry drives, and X-Ray system
Prepare the Cradle/Patient
Prepare the Cradle

• Position the gantry to zero degrees tilt.
• Install accessories such as a headholder, cushions, security straps, cradle extender.
• Check for contrast agent from the previous study.
• Lock the table into the load position:
– Drive the cradle all the way out of the gantry.
– Lower the table to minimum height.
CAUTION: Always return the gantry to zero degrees before lowering the table. Failure
to do so may result in the headholder, coronal headholder, or foot extender
striking the gantry and breaking.
Prepare the Patient

• Review the protocol chart for positioning, technique, contrast, and reconstruction
suggestions.
• Always help the patient onto the table.
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CT SAFETY
• Position the patient feet first when the exam requires an injector or IV, to prevent
interference with the gantry during cradle motion.
• Monitor all equipment motions to prevent collisions.
• Check for obstructions before moving the system.
NOTE: Make sure the actual patient entry and orientation matches the prescription entries.
CAUTION: Keep the patient in view at all times. Insure that the patient can be seen while
you are at the operator console. Never leave the patient unattended while
they are on the table.
Helical Safety
WARNING: Helical scanning has the inherent ability to produce artifacts when scanning
highly sloped anatomy (e.g. pediatric or adult heads). Factors which worsen
this effect are: faster table speeds, wider image thickness, and gantry tilt. In
some cases these artifacts could be mistaken for a hemorrhage near the
cranium, or a thickening of the skull.
WARNING: To reduce the occurrence of these artifacts you may prescribe slower table
speeds and/or thinner slices (such as 2.5mm) during helical scans near the
vertex of a pediatric or adult head
WARNING: .It has been documented in radiology literature than an artifact may occur in
the chest that bears the double margin of the great vessels, which emulates
a dissection of the vessel during 0.5 – 1.0 second scans. This can occur in axial
or helical scans. If you have scanned axially or helically with a 0.5 – 1.0 second
rotation time and observe this phenomenon, rescan the area with a 2 second
axial scan to verify if it is artifact or patient pathology.
WARNING: For helical scans, the Segment Recon Mode in Retrospective Recon may be
used to assess if there is an artifact or not. If questions still arise, then rescan
the area with a 2 second Axial scan.
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Cardiac Imaging Safety
CAUTION: A patient with the following conditions may be difficult to examine:

A) Patients having multiple PVC’S
B) Patients with extreme arrhythmia
C) Patients with dual-chamber pacemakers
If examined, the software may not be able to detect the R-peaks and the
images therefore may be produced as un-gated segment images.
CAUTION: If an EKG lead falls off during the scan, or the heart rate drops below 40 BPM,
the images will be reconstructed as non-gated segment images. This is done
to avoid inaccuracy of the z-location of images where necessary.
CAUTION: SnapShot Segment is designed for patients with a heart rate of 75 BPM or
lower. It is not recommended to scan a patient with a heart rate above 75
BPM. If a patient has been scanned with a heart rate higher than 75 BPM, the
temporal resolution will be inadequate in freezing the motion of the heart,
decreasing image quality.
CAUTION: A cardiac exam may have insufficient image quality due to patient motion,
breathing artifacts, or an increase in the heart rate of 10 – 20 BPM (e.g., 60 –
80 BPM). It is important to explain to the patient about the hot feeling when
the contrast is injected, and stress the importance of proper breathing.
CAUTION: If, during the scan, the heart rate drops significantly lower than the
prescribed heart rate, there is a potential for image location gaps. To avoid
image location gaps, a non-gated image is reconstructed for the period where
the heart rate dropped below the prescribed heart rate. A non-gated image
may have more motion and may not be reconstructed at the prescribed
phase.
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CT SAFETY
CAUTION: There is a possibility that the EKG signal may not be detected by the scanner
due to improper lead placements, or a lead falling off during the scan. It is
important to place new leads on the patient before the scan. Make sure the
leads are attached properly, and use the recommended EKG leads specified
in this chapter.
Accuracy of Measurements
Measure Distance for Axial, Helical, and Cine Images
Measure error using the straight line distance graphic is less than 2 times the image pixel
size.
Measure Distance for Scout Images
Accuracy of measurements for scout images in the “X” direction varies with object thickness
and distance from ISO in the “Y” direction. Note the orientations of the “X” and “Y” in the
diagram below assume a scout scan plane of 0 degrees. If the scout plane is rotated then
the “X” and “Y” orientation changes respectively.
• For measurements of anatomy in the “X” direction that are at ISO center (“Y”):
– The measure error using the straight line distance graphic is less 5% of the
measured distance plus 2mm.
• For measurements of anatomy in the “X” direction that are NOT at ISO (“Y”):
– The measure error using the straight line distance graphic is less 5% of the
measured distance plus 2mm plus 3% of measured distance per centimeter from
ISO.
• For measurements of anatomy in the “Z” direction:
– Measure error using the straight line distance graphic is less than 2 times the image
pixel size.
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Scout Scan Plane = 0 Degrees
"ISO
"Y" Center"
"X"
"Z"
Patient Table
Measure Angle
Measurement accuracy using the angle graphic is equal to the displayed angle value +/- 10
degrees for an angle measured between segments which are five times larger than the
image pixel size.
Accuracy improves as the length of the segments increases.
ROI
Area measurement accuracy using a region of interest graphic (rectangle, smooth curve,
ellipse or free draw) is equal to the displayed area +/- the circumference of the region
multiplied by (image pixel size)2/2. Mean and standard deviation values for the intensity of
the pixels in the region are also affected by this accuracy.
If the ROI is rotated, the area measurement can vary up to 5%.
Region of interest statistics are based on the pixels INSIDE the graphic defining the region.
Reformat Plane Thickness

Reformat plane thickness equals 1 pixel.
• If each axial pixel represents 0.5mm or anatomy, then the reformat plane thickness
equals 0.5mm.
• If pixel size equals 0.9766mm (500mm/512), then the reformat plane represents a slice
of anatomy about one millimeter thick.
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CT SAFETY
Lung Algorithm
• The Lung algorithm setting provides edge enhancement between structures with large
density differences, such as calcium and air, resulting in a sharper lung field when
compared to Standard algorithm.
• For best image quality, prescribe a 10mm, 7.5mm or 5mm scan thickness when you
plan to use the Lung algorithm. If you plan to prescribe a High Resolution Lung study
with 3.75, 2.5, or 1.25mm, use the Bone algorithm.
• The Lung setting enhances the contrast of small objects. For best viewing and film
quality, select a window width of 1000 to 1500 and a window level of -500 to -600.
• The Lung algorithm setting increases the CT number values at the edge of high contrast
objects. If you plan to take CT number measurements of vessels or nodules in the lung,
please check and compare your results with Standard algorithm images. (ROI and
Histogram functions use CT numbers.)
• Remember: The edge enhancement provided by the Lung setting may not be
appropriate in some clinical cases. Please take individual viewing preferences into
account when you choose the Lung setting.
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3-24 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

ACCESSING THE LEARNING AND REFERENCE GUIDE
Chapter 4
ACCESSING THE LEARNING AND
REFERENCE GUIDE
The Learning and Reference Guide is designed to get you up and running your system. It is
recommended that each system operator review the complete Learning and Reference
Guide.
To start the Learning and Reference Guide:
• Select the [Learning Solutions] icon.
• Select the language you wish to review in.
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TUBE WARMUP
Chapter 5
TUBE WARMUP
To maintain image quality and long tube life, complete the Warmup procedure.
• Display the Scan Monitor screen.
• Select Daily Prep and Tube Warmup to display the Warmup screen.
– When you haven't used the X-Ray tube for more than three hours
– Fastcal - Tube warmup runs automatically when Fastcal is selected.
– Before Calcheck
– Before system calibration
GE suggests you warm up the tube after every three hours of non-use.
The system displays the following message on the Scan Monitor screen:
Scans may have been taken within the last three hours. Warmup scans may cause subsequent tube
cooling delays.
If you press CANCEL, the tube warmup will be cancelled.
NOTE: Tube warmup will run in Autoscan mode.

• Read the compatibility Warning.
• Position the gantry to 0° tilt.
• Click [Accept] when you understand the implications.
• Tube warmup runs a set of tube heating scans.
• When finished, the system display returns to the daily prep screen.
A message that tube warm-up has been completed will also be in the system message log.
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DAILY FAST CAL PROCEDURE
Chapter 6
DAILY FAST CAL PROCEDURE
To maintain image quality, complete the Fast Cal procedure once a day.
1. Display the Scan Monitor screen.
– Clear the gantry opening.
– Raise the table above the patient loading level.
2. Select [Daily Prep] and [Fast Cal] to display the screen.
– Before the start of every scan day
– Before Cal check
– Before system calibration
3. The system automatically selects the Auto Scan function.
a) The system automatically selects the following sequence of scans:
– Mylar Window Check
– Cold Warmup
– Warmup 1
– Warmup 2
– Collimator Cal
– FPA Check Scans
– Clever Gain Calibration
– Fast Calibration
b) Follow system instructions to initiate the first scan, and the system acquires the rest
of the scan set.
c) Remain near the console during auto scan acquisition, so you can stop X-Ray if
someone enters the scanner room.
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PREPARE THE SYSTEM
Chapter 7
PREPARE THE SYSTEM
• Clean the Accessories and check for damage.

• Check and remove dried contrast agent from:
– Mylar ring (around the gantry opening)
– Detector window
– Table extension and cradle surfaces — especially the Patient Restraint plastic
channels on the table
– Accessories (Head holders, pads and cushions, etc.)
• Check supplies.
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CHECK DISK SPACE
Chapter 8
CHECK DISK SPACE
Maintain Image and Scan file space on the disk, because the system refuses to scan when it
runs out of file space.
Check Image Space

• Check the daily schedule, and multiply the list of patients by the estimated number of
images each study requires.
• Compare your estimate to the remaining 5122 images listed in the Feature Status Date
and Time area.
• If your estimate exceeds the available Image Space:
– Film any previously unfilmed studies. (Optional)
– Transfer designated images to another suite or console.
– Archive and remove the oldest images from the system disk.
Always follow the filming and archive routines established for your facility.
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RESET THE SYSTEM
Chapter 9
RESET THE SYSTEM
System Shutdown/Reset Procedures

To prevent system software problems, restart your system once every 24 hours.
(Recommended: Shutdown and restart at the end of the last shift.) If the system has a
persistent problem, record the time, circumstances, and error messages, then call service.
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STOP/START THE OPERATING SYSTEM
Chapter 10
STOP/START THE OPERATING

SYSTEM
Octane Based Systems

To turn off main disconnect control (MDC) or A1.
Shutdown the system.
1. On Display Monitor, click the Shutdown icon.
• Dialog is posted
2. Select OK.
• Dialog will be posted
– Attention
System is shutting down please wait …
• Another dialog will be posted.
– The system is shutting down please wait …
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• When the system is down a dialog is posted

– Okay to power off system now
3. Press the STOP button on the MDC or A1 connector panel.
4. To start operating system from Okay to Power off System Prompt, select Restart on the
display monitor.
• Dialog is posted on the display monitor
– The system is coming up please wait …
5. A dialog box will be posted
– Attention
OC is initializing please wait…
6. When this dialog disappears the system is ready to use.
PC Based System
To turn off main disconnect control (MDC) or A1.
Shutdown the system.
1. On Display Monitor, select Shutdown.
• Dialog is posted
2. Select Shutdown and click OK.

• Dialog will be posted
– Attention
System is powering down please wait …
• Another dialog will be posted.
– The system is shutting down please wait …
• When the system is down a dialog is posted
– Okay to power off system now
3. Press the STOP button on the MDC or A1 connector panel.
10-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

STOP/START THE OPERATING SYSTEM
4. To start operating system from Okay to Power off System Prompt, click Restart on the
display monitor.
• Dialog is posted on the display monitor
– The system is coming up please wait …
• A dialog box is posted
– Attention
OC is initializing please wait…
• When this dialog disappears the system is ready to use.
5. If your system has the HIPAA login enabled, you are required to login to the system.
If You Turn OFF the MDC at the End of the Scan Day:
To start the system if main disconnect has been powered off:
• Press the START button on the main disconnect control (A1).
Systems with Gantry Control Panels:

1. Push the START button on the main disconnect control (A1) to restore power to the PDU,
console(s) and subsystem electronics.
2. Push the RESET button to turn on the Gantry Control panel to restore power to the
Gantry drives, X-Ray system, and Table drive.
• When this dialog disappears the system is ready to use.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 10-3

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
10-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Chapter 11
GENERAL INFORMATION
This section provides a simple introduction to CT, or Computed Tomography, for people with
no detailed physics or medical diagnostic education.
System components:
• The system components are explained in the Learning and Reference Guide.
GE Healthcare products are designed to provide optimum performance with GE-supplied
parts. Accordingly, GE can make no assurances that Equipment performance will not be
affected by the use of non-GE-supplied parts. In some instances use of non-GE-supplied
parts may affect Equipment performance or functionality.
To enhance user awareness when non-GE-supplied tube are in use, the Equipment has been
designed to recognize GE-supplied tubes and report to the user the presence of a
non-GE-supplied tube. This will permit the user to make any adjustments to Equipment use
that the user deems appropriate. Use of the Equipment with non-GE-supplied parts is
always at the user’s discretion. GE assumes no liability for the use of non-GE-supplied parts
and disclaims any responsibility for any affect such parts may have on Equipment
performance.
Emergency Stop:
• Emergency Stop procedures are described in the CT Safety tab.
Intended Use
This system is intended to be used for head and whole body computed tomography.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-1

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
CT Description
In conventional radiography, X-Rays pass through the patient to a film, which records
anatomic “shadows.” The X-Rays create a planar image, called a radiograph.
In computed tomography, electronic circuits detect and measure the X-Rays, and send
these measurements to a computer system that converts the information to a pixel value
matrix. These pixel values appear as a two dimensional image on a CRT monitor. Even
though CT creates X-Ray exposures, we normally refer to them as images.
Additional computer software permits you to manipulate, shade, rotate, correlate, and
measure the images to derive even more information. The system also provides the means
to store the images on permanent or temporary media.
Conventional radiography can discern tissue density differences of 5%. CT can distinguish
density differences of 1% or less.
Traditional CT systems collect 1 row of data at a time. The LightSpeed 3.X CT scanner
system may improve customer productivity and open the door for new applications and
unparalleled scan speeds via a revolutionary 8-row data acquisition system.
CT Operation Theory
The PDU (power distribution unit) distributes system power. Power travels from the PDU to
the gantry. The components that produce X-Rays reside inside the gantry. The generator
produces high voltage, and transmits it over the slip rings to the X-Ray tube. High voltage
propels electrons from the X-Ray tube filament to its anode. Heat and x-radiation result.
The X-Ray tube's heat capacity and dissipation determine the frequency and length of CT
exposures. A Helical and Cine exposure can last up to 120 seconds and Axial exposures last
from 0.4 to 4 seconds.
The scintillator material in the detector absorbs the X-Ray that passes through the patient,
and generates a corresponding level of light. The detector converts the light levels into a
corresponding electric current. The DAS (Data Acquisition System) samples each detector
cell in all four detector rows about 1000 times per second, amplifies and quantifies the
existing current, then sends the resulting data to the IG (Image Generator).
Each complete sample by the DAS is called a view. The recon engine converts all the views
into a single matrix of pixel values, called an image. The display processor takes a copy of
the digital matrix data, and converts it into television shades of gray, and sends the image
to the CRT monitor for display. The OC (operator console) contains the CRT monitor and
controls the computer, X-Ray, and cradle drives.
DICOM Print
The LightSpeed 3.X can send a camera request to a camera that has DICOM print
capabilities.
11-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
X-Ray
The X-Ray tube contains filaments, a cathode and an anode. The filament provides the
electrons that create X-Rays. The X-Ray system generates a current that heats the filament
until electrons start to “boil off” and break away from the filament. We refer to the filament
current as “mA.” Increasing the mA increases the number of electrons that become
available to make X-Ray. Higher concentrations of electrons improve image resolution.
The X-Ray system creates a high voltage, or kV, potential between the cathode and anode.
The negative charge on the cathode repels the electrons that boil off the filament. The
positive charge on the anode attracts the negatively charged electrons. The electrons strike
the rotating anode target and displace electrons in the target material. This interaction
creates heat and X-Ray photons. The target rotates to help spread the heat over a larger
area. Increasing the kV increases the electron strike speed, which in turn increases the
intensity or “hardness” of the X-Ray photon beam.
ust reach the detector reference X-Ray Tube

the edges of the selected SFOV.
Centered Patient
Gantry Opening
Detector
DAS
Tube Warmup
Warmup provides an automated group of low technique exposures designed to safely bring
the X-Ray tube to operating temperature before you start to scan for the day. Warmups
increase tube life and help produce more consistent, quality images.
LightSpeed 3.X Theory of Operation

System Overview
The LightSpeed 3.X CT scanner is a premium-tier, 3rd generation CT scanner. It will support
all clinical applications currently supported by the HiSpeed CT/i product line.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-3

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
The distinguishing feature of LightSpeed 3.X is the ability to simultaneously collect 8 rows of
scan data (as opposed to 1 row with HiSpeed CT/i. This 8-row data collection is
accomplished via a 16-row detector and a 8-row DAS (Data Acquisition System).
The detector/DAS combination will provide functionality unmatched by any CT scanner in
the world.
System Characteristics
• World's first 8-row CT scanner and 16-row detector.
• LightSpeed 3.X optional variable rotation scan speeds
• (0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.9).
• Helical acquisitions at significantly faster table speeds.
• Potential for new applications due to faster coverage and fewer tube cooling delays.
• The ability to generate 8 axial images per gantry revolution.
• Every system EMC compliant with improved reliability and uptime.
• World-class User Interface: CT/i continuum.
Tube - Performix Pro

Performix tube, common tube with HiSpeed CT/i.
Detector
• 16 rows in Z axis = 16 physically separated cells in Z (LightSpeed CT/i= single cell).
• Detector cell segregation in Z provides post-patient collimation.
• 2.19mm actual detector cell size in Z.
• 1.25mm effective cell size in Z at ISO center.
• 8 data rows output.
• Cells summable in Z by FET array to provide various slice thickness.
• Cell summation combinations include:
• 4 x 1.25mm
• 4 x 2.5mm
• 4 x 3.75mm
• 4 x 5.0mm
• 8 x 2.5mm
• 8 x 1.25mm
• Integrated, permanently bonded flex connectors.
11-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Scaleable Data Acquisition Sub-System (MDAS)

– 8 rows input from detector.
– 8 rows output to SRU (Scan Reconstruction Unit).
– Supported by 48 interchangeable converter (CNVT) cards.
– 128 input channels/converter card MDAS.
– 31-gain, integrating, front-end pre-amp.
– Supports 1408 Hz sampling.
– Forward error correction applied to output data.
– Control functions:
– Detector FET array and heater control.
– Error detection and reporting.
Patient Scanning
LightSpeed 3.X uses a “shorter” geometry than HiSpeed CT/i. Since X-Ray intensity varies as
the square of the distance, the benefit of the Lite geometry, measured at ISO center, is:
(630/541)2 = 1.36 = 36% better X-Ray flux utilization. It also reduces the centrifugal force on
the tube which will allow for future faster rotational speeds.
Parameter LightSpeed 3.X HiSpeed CT/i

ISO Height 1015 mm 1092.9 mm
Focal spot to ISO 541 mm 630 mm
Focal spot to det 949 mm 1100 mm
SFOV 496.9 mm 480 mm
Bore 700 mm 700 mm
EMI/EMC
All systems built to global regulatory emissions (EMC) and immunity (EMI) compliance
standards to improve reliability, uptime and performance in its intended environment.
Network
Remote Host Parameters
The LightSpeed 3.X Network function has new enhancements to support DICOM networking.
When adding or updating a remote list, there are some new parameters needed. All of the
following information, except for Comments, needs to be provided in order to set up a
remote host:
• The Host name to be entered is the name of the device. If the device is DICOM, the name
must match exactly to the name given to the device.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-5

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
• The Network address of the device is provided by the institution's network administrator.
• The Network protocol consists of two choices: Advantage NET or DICOM. If the
LightSpeed 3.X will be sending to this device, the device must be DICOM and the DICOM
network protocol must be selected. If this device is a GE Advantage Genesis system,
you must select the Advantage NET network protocol to send to the LightSpeed 3.X.
• The Port number is unique to the device. If the device is an Advantage Windows
workstation or HiSpeed CT/i, X/i, or NX/i system, the number will be 4006.
• The AE Title is unique to the device. If the device is an Advantage Windows workstation
or another GE Medical Systems system, the AE Title will be the same as the Host name.
• The Comment field allows you to input a comment.
• The Archive Node refers to the archiving responsibility of the device:
• If Auto is selected, the CT system will automatically check to see if the device is a
Storage Commitment Provider.
• If Yes is selected, the device will be responsible for archiving images. When the device
has received and saved the images, a notification message will be displayed on the
scanner console and the Archive status for the exam will be “A” for archived.
• If No is selected, the device will not be responsible for archiving.
NOTE: The device must be a Storage Commitment Provider in order for remote archive node
to function.
• Access to the local host refers to the device's ability to access the LightSpeed 3.X. Select
Yes if you want the device to be able to send to and/or query the LightSpeed 3.X.
• The Custom search feature enables the Custom search dialog box to be automatically
displayed when you select receive from the remote browser. If Yes is selected, the
feature is enabled. If No is selected, the Custom search dialog box will not automatically
be displayed. You can, however, get to the search feature once the remote browser is
displayed, by simply selecting Search, on the remote browser.
Network Compatibility
The LightSpeed QX/i, Plus, and Ultra image format is DICOM. This image format may only be
transferred between systems using a DICOM network protocol. The receiving station must
support DICOM receive for LightSpeed images to be transferred (send or receive) to it.
Use the following table for network compatibility. The table lists the network protocol to use
and the features available for that system. The far left column lists the system the user is at
(from).
11-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Table 11-1 Network Compatibility
From To
LightSpeed HiSpeed HiSpeed CT IC HiSpeed 3rd Party
QX/i, Plus, CT/i Advantage NX/i, X/i, or DICOM
or Ultra QX/i Station
LightSpeed DICOM Query DICOM Advantage*** Advantage*** DICOM DICOM*
QX/i, Plus, Send Query Query Query Query Query**
Receive Send Receive Receive Send Send
Ultra, 16, or Receive Receive Receive**
HiSpeed
QX/i
HiSpeed CT/i DICOM DICOM Advantage Advantage DICOM DICOM*
Query Query Query Query Query Query**
Send Send Send Send Send Send
Receive Receive Receive Receive Receive Receive**
HiSpeed DICOM Advantage Advantage Advantage Advantage DICOM
Advantage Send Query Query Query Send Send
Send Send Send
Receive Receive Receive
CT IC DICOM Advantage Advantage Advantage Advantage DICOM
Send Query Query Query Send Send
Send Send Send
Receive Receive Receive
HiSpeed DICOM DICOM Advantage Advantage DICOM DICOM*
FX/i, DX/I, Query Query Query Query Query Query**
Send Send Receive Receive Send Send
LX/i Receive Receive Receive Receive**
3rd Party DICOM DICOM DICOM DICOM DICOM DICOM*
DICOM Query Query Query Query Query Query**
Send Send Receive Receive Send Send
Station Receive Receive Receive Receive**
* Some 3rd party stations use the ODINA network protocol. In this case use DICOM protocol
and port number 104.
** Query capability is only available only if station is a query retrieve provider.
*** Advantage Net is not available on PC Base Systems.
NOTE: LightSpeed16, Ultra, Plus, QX/i, or HiSpeed QX/i PC based systems do not support
Advantage Network Protocol.
Table 11-2 Advantage Windows Network Compatibility
From
AW 1.2 AW 2.0 AW 3.10 AW4.0 LightSpeed
QX/i, Plus,
Ultra, 16, or
HiSpeed QX/i
LightSpeed DICOM DICOM DICOM DICOM DICOM
QX/i, Plus, Send Send Send Query Query
Ultra, 16, or Send Send
HiSpeed QX/i Receive Receive
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-7

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
From
(Continued)
AW 1.2 AW 2.0 AW 3.10 AW4.0 LightSpeed
QX/i, Plus,
Ultra, 16, or
HiSpeed QX/i
AW 1.2 SdC Net SdC Net SdC Net SdC Net DICOM
Query Query Query Query Query
Send Send Send Send Send
Receive Receive Receive Receive Receive
AW 3.1 SdC Net V1 SdC Net V2 SdC Net V3 SdC Net DICOM
NOTE: Advantage Windows systems do not support Query Retrieve provider. Send images
from the Advantage Windows to the LightSpeed QX/i, LightSpeed Plus, or LightSpeed
Ultra.
NOTE: LightSpeed16, Ultra, Plus, QX/i, or HiSpeed QX/i PC Based Systems do not support
Advantage Network Protocol.
System Data and Control Flow

3c
Table
Generator
Controller
Data Flow 5
3a 3b
Control Flow Stationary On-Board Performix
Controller Controller Tube
Real-Time Control Flow 6
4
3e Cam
4
3d Collimator
+ 7
Slip Ring
2
UIF Monitor 16 Row Detector
8
1
Host SRU
Computer MDAS
10 9
9
Keyboard
11-8 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Component Functions Data and Control Flows

Host Computer User interface, image display 1 Scan and recon prescription from
operator
SRU Scan and recon control and 2 Scan prescription to “master” controller
Image generation
Stationary Stationary base real-time 3 Scan parameters distributed
Controller control and “master” a. table position
On-Board controller b. rotating parameters
Controller Rotating base real-time c. kV and mA selections
Table Controller control X-Ray beam collimation and filter
Slip-ring d. selections
Patient table real-time detector slice thickness and SDAS gain
control e. selections
Signal and power transfer
between stationary and
rotating components 4 Real-time control signals during scanning
5 High voltage
Generator High voltage generation 6 Un-collimated X-Ray beam
Performix Tube X-ray generation 7 Collimated X-Ray beam
Cam Collimator Formation of the X-Ray 8 Analog scan data
beam
16-row Detector Conversion of X-Ray to 9 Digital scan data
analog signal data
MDAS Conversion of analog signal 10 Patient images
data to digital data
X-ray Generation and Detection Details

Overview
The distinguishing feature of LightSpeed 3.X is the capability to simultaneously collect
multiple rows of scan data.
Gantry Coordinate System

X, Y, Z: Scanner gantry coordinate system:
• X = Tangent to circle of rotation.
• Y = Radial (from ISO toward tube focal spot).
• Z = Longitudinal (in/out of the scan plane).
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-9

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
X X-Ray Tube Focal Spot
ISO
Scan Plane
Z
Patient Table
Components
Figure 11-1 X-ray generation and detection components viewed from side of gantry
CAM Collimator
The pre-patient collimation of the X-Ray beam is accomplished via 2 independently
controlled tungsten cams (refer to Table 11-2 on page 11).
11-10 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Figure 11-2 CAM collimator examples
Focal Spot
Offset
Cam Offset
Beam Offset
Wide Beam Narrow Beam Narrow Beam

Centered Centered Cams Offset in Z
e.g., 4x5mm Slices e.g., 4x1.25mm Slices e.g., 4x1.25mm Slices

or
8x2.5mm Slices Offset used to compensate for
Z axis beam offset.
Z-Axis Cell Summation

The LightSpeed 3.X detector is segmented into cells in the Z dimension, providing
post-patient collimation of the X-Ray beam. This post-patient collimation is provided by the
segmentation of the detector cells, and not by a separate post-patient collimator as some
CT systems use.
The post-patient collimation, along with summation of cells in the Z direction by the detector
FET array, determines the Z-axis slice thickness of the scan data.
The Z dimension extent of each cell is 1.25mm at ISO center.
1, 2, 3 or 4 cells are summed in Z to produce a “macro cell.” All macro cells in the same Z
plane form a “macro row.” A macro row consisting of a single cell in each column produces
scan data with thickness of 1.25mm at ISO center (refer to Illustration 11-3). A macro row
consisting of 4 summed cells in each column produces scan data with thickness 5.0mm at
ISO center (refer to Illustration 11-3. The 8 macro rows are labeled 4A, 3A, 2A, 1A, 1B, 2B, 3B,
and 4B. 2A is closest to the patient table. Each flex transmits 2 macro cells to the DAS per
column x 16 columns per detector module = 32 data channels per flex (Figure 11-2).
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-11

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 11-3 Channel summation in Z — Examples
Tungsten Cams 10mm

5mm Collimation Collimation
Patient Table
16-Row Lumex
FET Array
2A 2B 2A 2B
1A 1B 1A 1B
2A 1A 4 x 1.25 mm 1B 2B 2A 1A 4 x 2.5 mm 1B 2B
Figure 3a Figure 3b
15mm 20mm
Collimation Collimation
2A 2B 2A 2B
1A 1B 1A 1B
2A 1A 4 x 3.75 mm 1B 2B 2A 1A 4 x 5.0 mm 1B 2B
Figure 3c Figure 3d
10mm 20mm
Collimation Collimation
4A, 3A 4B, 3B 4A, 3A 4B, 3B
2A, 1A 8 x 1.25 mm 2B, 1B 2A, 1A 8 x 2.5 mm 2B, 1B
Figure 3e Figure 3f
Collimator Theory
The purpose of tracking is to follow the focal spot so that we can keep the uniform X-ray of
the narrowest possible beam on the detector to reduce dose and still avoid artifacts.
The focal spot moves in Z due to thermal changes in the tube and a mechanical forces
during gantry rotation and tilt angle.
Each cam is basically an independent system.
11-12 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
What
Whatdoes
doestracking
trackingdo
do??
focal Closed
Closedloop
looprepositions
repositionscollimator
collimator
spot to
to hold the beamsteady
hold the beam steady
Collimator Control
Collimator Control 1 measure position of X–ray beam
Board (CCB)
Board (CCB) 1 measure position of X–ray beam
22compute
computenew
newcollimator
collimatorposition
position
Stepper 33move
movecollimator
collimatortotofollow
followthe
thefocal
focalspot
Steppermotor
motor spot
repositions
repositionscams
cams
Data
Datachannels
channelsthat
thatmake
make
the
theimage
imagestay
stayininflat
flatX–ray
X–ray
DAS Control Board
DAS Control Board
(DCB)
(DCB)
ZZaxis
axismodule
moduleoperates
operatespartly
partly
ininthe X–ray shadow
the X–ray shadow
Compute
Computenew
newcamcamposition
position 2A / 1A
from
fromZZcell
cellsignal
signalratio
ratio
Position
Positionof
ofX–ray
X–rayshadow
shadowon onZZ
beam position vs
2A / 1A ratio cells
cellsdetermines
determinesthe
thesignal
signalratio
ratio
wwFast
Fast response
response to
to keep
keep beam
beam centered
centeredon
onthe
thedetector
detector
In the Hi Res mode (1i x x1.25 mode) the collimator

projects an x–ray beam on a single 1.25 mm detector row.
Only 1 image per rotation is generated at the lowest
possible single slice dose.
AutomA Theory
Automatic tube current modulation: Tube current modulation is a technical innovation that
significantly reduces radiation dose. The concept is based on the fact that pixel noise in a
CT image is attributable to the X-ray quantum noise in the projections. By adjusting the tube
current to follow the changing patient anatomy, the quantum noise in the projections can
be adjusted to maintain a desired noise in the image and to improve dose efficiency.
AutomA (Z-axis modulation) adjusts the tube current to maintain a user selected quantum
noise level in the image data. It regulates the noise in the final image to a level desired by
the user. In this sense, AutomA is the CT equivalent of the auto exposure control systems
employed in conventional X-ray systems. AutomA attempts to make all images have similar
x-ray quantum noise independent of patient size and anatomy. Dose is reduced with
AutomA protocols vs. fixed mA protocols, since the tube current will be automatically
reduced for smaller patients and anatomic regions. With AutomA, the tube current
modulation is determined from the attenuation and shape of scout scan projections of the
patient just prior to CT exam sequence.
Angular modulation has a different objective than Z-modulation. It adjusts the tube current
to minimize X-rays over angles that have less importance in reducing the overall image
noise content. In anatomy that is highly asymmetric, such as the shoulders, x-rays are
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-13

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
significantly less attenuated in anterior-posterior (AP) direction than in the lateral direction.
Thus, the overwhelming abundance of AP x-rays can often be reduced very significantly
without a significant effect on overall image noise.
Angular modulation was first introduced on GE single slice scanners in 1994 and is currently
being developed for the LightSpeed scanners.
1 L. Kopka and M. Funke, "Automatically adapted CT tube current: Dose reduction and image quality in phantom
and patient studies," Radiology 197 (P) , 292 (1995) .
2. D. R. Jacobson, W. D. Foley, S. Metz, and A. L. Peterswen, "Variable milliampere CT: Effect on noise and low
contrast detectability," Radiology 210(P), 326 (1996)
AutomA Theory
AutomA is an automatic exposure control system that employs Z axis tube current
modulation. A noise index parameter allows the user to select the amount of X-ray noise
that will be present in the reconstructed images. Using a single patient scout exposure, the
CT system computes the required mA to be used during each gantry rotation based on the
selected noise index setting. The noise index value will approximately equal the standard
deviation in the central region of the image when a uniform phantom is scanned and
reconstructed using the standard reconstruction algorithm.
The system determines the tube current using the patient's scout projection data and a set
of empirically determined noise prediction coefficients for a reference technique. The
reference technique is the selected kvp, and an arbitrary 2.5 mm slice at 100 mAs for an
axial reconstruction using the standard reconstruction algorithm. The scout projections
contain density, size and shape information about the patient. The total projection
attenuation (projection area) contains the patient density and size information and the
amplitude and width of the projection contains the patient shape information. These patient
characteristics determine how much x-ray will reach the detector for a specified technique
and hence determine the image standard deviation due to x-ray noise for a given
reconstruction algorithm.
To predict the image noise at a given z position for the reference technique, the projection
area and oval ratio are obtained from the patient's scout. The oval ratio is an estimate of the
patient asymmetry that is determined from the amplitude and width of the projection data.
The expected x-ray noise for the reference technique (reference noise) is then calculated as
a function of the projection area and oval ratio using polynomial coefficients that were
determined by a least squares fit of measurements for a set of phantoms representing a
clinical range of patient sizes and shapes.
Knowing the reference noise and the difference between the reference technique and the
selected prescribed technique, the mA required to obtain the prescribed noise index is easily
calculated using well know equations from x-ray physics. That is, the noise is inversely
related to the square root of the number of photons and the number of photons is
proportional to the slice thickness, slice acquisition time, and mA. In the GE Automa design,
an adjustment factor for helical pitches is also incorporated in the calculation to account for
noise differences that scale between helical selections and the axial reference technique.
11-14 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Understanding AutomA Behavior

1. Why is the standard deviation I measure in the image some times different than the
noise index I selected for the scan?
There are many factors that can account for this. But, first consider that the noise index
setting you make only adjusts the tube current so that the system projects a similar X-ray
intensity through the patient to the detector. Hence it regulates the X-ray noise or quantum
noise in the projection data. The noise in the image depends on other factors as well. The
reconstruction algorithm selection, reconstructed slice thickness selection (if different than
your prospective selection), and the use of image space filters will also change the noise in
the image. In addition, it is very difficult to make standard deviation measurements on
patient data since the standard deviation is affected by small CT number variations of the
anatomy and by patient motion or beam hardening artifacts. Even with uniform phantoms,
standard deviation measurements will produce some variability in measured results
because of the inherent nature of quantum statistics.
Another situation that can cause significant differences between the selected noise index
and the image standard deviation is when very large patients provide insufficient detector
signal. In these cases, electronic noise sources can become the dominant image noise
source instead of X-ray noise. In these cases at various threshold levels, special projection
data dependent filters begin to be applied to help preserve image quality. The highest kvp
should always be used when excessively large patients are to be scanned.
2. Will I get a dose reduction when I use automA?
AutomA will use a dose that depends on the noise index you select and the size of the
patient you are scanning. If you do not obtain a dose reduction, you may have selected a
lower noise index than you really need and this is resulting in higher mA values on average
than your fixed mA protocols. One strategy to avoid using more dose is to set the max mA
parameter to the same level as your fixed mA protocols. This will cap the maximum dose to
your previous fixed mA protocol. Hence, automA will never be allowed to use more dose
then you previously used. However, automA will decrease dose for those patients and
regions where the selected noise index can be maintained with decreased mA. Note that,
image noise will increase in regions where the mA is limited by the max mA range but the IQ
would be no different that with the fixed mA results.
3. Why do my images seem noisier when I use automA?
AutomA will produce an x-ray intensity to maintain the noise index you select. Thus, you
may need to use a lower noise index. This may be the case if you find that the average mA
for your population of patients is generally lower than your previous fixed mA protocols.
Note that this would mean you are using less dose and hence higher noise would be
expected.
Certain patient images may also be noisier than your experience suggests. For example,
your experience tells you to expect significantly lower noise in thin patients than obese
patients. Since automA makes the image noise approximately the same for all patients, you
may have to re-learn what to expect. What is most important, is to find the highest noise
index that allows you to make a confident diagnosis for the clinical problem since this
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-15

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
results in the lowest patient dose. One would generally expect that all patients, regardless of
size, will require about the same image noise for a similar clinical diagnostic problem. If you
find the noise is too high, there are several strategies you can use.
A conditional noise limiting strategy you can employ, is to increase the low mA range
parameter. If you find that images are generally not acceptable to you below some
minimum mA value, then you may set this value as the low mA range limit. This will prevent
automA from using lower mA values than you desire. Note, however, that this overrides the
purpose of automa and causes the image noise to decrease below the selected noise index
and thereby increases the dose.
Yet another possibility for higher noise than you might expect is if you are looking at
multiple reconstructed images that have thinner slices than the prospective scan Rx slice
thickness. AutomA uses prospective slice thickness as a factor when the mA table is
generated. You need to be sure the prospective image parameters are set for the primary
images you will be using. This caveat applies equally for fixed mA as well as automA
scanning.
Higher noise images can also occur when patients are not well centered in the scan field of
view. The bowtie filter attenuation increases with distance away from isocenter. Hence the
thickest part of the patient should be approximately centered in the scan field of view.
Otherwise image noise will increase since the patient thickness adds to the bowtie filter
thickness. This is especially important for highly asymmetric anatomy such as through the
shoulders. Again, this effect is no different with automA than with fixed mA.
Recognize also that there are also some obese patients that exceed the capabilities of the
tube and generator to satisfy the selected noise index. This is also no different than fixed mA
scanning. For such obese patients, one strategy is to select a higher kv setting when
possible.
4. Why is the mA that is annotated on the image sometimes slightly different than the
mA I see in the mA table?
The mA displayed on the image is determined by measuring the generator mA during the
scan and averaging the measured result over the total number of views used to reconstruct
the image. The number of views used to produce the image may be more than one gantry
rotation for a helical scan. Hence the annotated value is a combination of the mA table
values that depends on how many views from each rotation were used for the image. In
addition, the generator is automatically adjusting the filament current to account for
changing conditions during the scan to keep the mA within the desired tolerance of the
commanded mA table. For example, this is why you could see an mA value of 41 in the
image where the mA table indicated 40.
5. I understand that noise in the image noise changes with reconstruction parameter
selections, but why is the noise sometimes different when I retro reconstruct the
same scan data at a different display field of view?
When you select a reconstruction algorithm, the system may sometimes re-adjust the
actual filter kernel. This readjustment will change the image noise. This will happen if the
display field of view selection exceeds a certain size and is especially apparent with higher
11-16 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
resolution algorithms such as bone and edge. The change in kernel is required when the
DFOV selection makes the pixel size too large to support the intended spatial resolution. This
characteristic is independent of automA.
System Operational Modes

Overview
The LightSpeed 3.X scanner provides unique data collection functionality unmatched by
any competitor's system. Even with this powerful data collection capability, the basic
modes of operation presented to the user will remain unchanged from HiSpeed CT/i:
• Scout
• Axial
• Helical
• Cardiac Helical
• Cine
Scout
Scout imaging is used for anatomical location in conjunction with scan and recon
prescription, to provide an anatomical cross-reference for axial images, and to provide quick
feedback to the user as to the anatomy scanned. Scout supports the following features:
• Less than 10 second reconstruction.
• All kV and mA stations available, dependant on generator and tube limitations.
• 1.25mm resolution in Z.
• 100mm/sec table speed (75mm/sec @ HiSpeed CT/i).
• Data collected in 4 x 1.25mm mode. Reconstruction algorithms “combine” data to
maintain 1.25mm resolution in Z.
Pediatric Imaging
Adult techniques and protocols should not be used on pediatric patients (under 2 years of
age.)
Axial
Axial scanning is expected to be used less on LightSpeed 3.X than on HiSpeed CT/i. The goal
for LightSpeed 3.X is to support virtually all applications using helical scanning. There may
be applications, such as high-resolution Inner Auditory Canal (IAC) or lungs, where axial
scanning is required for image quality reasons.
Axial and Cine imaging features include:
• Scan speeds: 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 seconds.
• Cine: 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 seconds.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-17

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
• Variable image thickness.

• Sample rates: 984 Hz, 1090 Hz, 1230 Hz, 1400 Hz, 1408 Hz (984 Hz only @ HiSpeed CT/i)
1408 Hz supports HiSpeed CT/i spatial resolution at 0.5 second scanning.
• Segmented reconstruction option for cine scans.
• LightSpeed 3.X can acquire 8 axial slices in a single rotation when the 8 slice scanning
option is installed. These slices can be reconstructed independently to produce 8
images. These images may be combined to produce composite images. For example:
Data collected in 8 x 1.25 mode
– (8i) 8 x 1.25 images
– Data collected in 4 x 1.25mm mode:
– (4i) 4 x 1.25mm images
– (2i) 2 x 2.50mm images
– (1i) 1 x 5.00m image
Helical
Helical Overview
The 16-row detector and 8-row DAS provide the greatest benefits when used in the helical
mode. In the helical mode, data from all 8 detector rows is selectively combined and
weighted during reconstruction in order to achieve the optimal balance between image
z-axis resolution, noise, and helical artifacts.
• Helical imaging features include:
• 120 second maximum helical scan time.
• Pitches
NOTE: Beginning with the LightSpeed 3.X M3.1 release, the user interface has changed the
scan mode names. These new names indicate pitch as expressed by the ratio of table
travel per rotation to beam collimation. The new scan mode name designation will
be indicated on image annotation.
Previous Scan Mode

Scan Mode
Designator
HQ 1:1
HQ 0.75:1
HS 1.5:1
UQ 0.625:1
UM 0.875:1
UF 1.35:1
US 1.675:1
• Variable image thickness (recon parameter).
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GENERAL INFORMATION
• Sample Rates: 984 Hz, 1090 Hz, 1230 Hz, 1400 Hz, 1408 Hz.
• Segmented reconstruction option.
• 0.1mm minimum incremental retrospective recon image spacing.
Once the LightSpeed 3.X helical data is collected, it can be reconstructed at image thickness
greater than or equal to 1x the detector macro-row size. Premium image quality (near axial
image quality) is achieved at 2x the detector macro-row size. The thinnest image thickness
possible, which has image quality slightly degraded from 1.5:1 pitch on HiSpeed CT/i, is 1x
the detector macro-row size.
Premium Image Quality Helical Example

Premium image quality (near axial image quality) is achieved as follows:
• Detector macro-row size = 50% of the desired image slice thickness.
• Pitch (table travel over beam collimation) = 0.75:1.
LightSpeed 3.X “Premium” IQ example for 4 slice mode:
• 5mm images
• 4x2.5mm detector mode
• table speed of 7.5mm/rotation (0.75:1)
LightSpeed 3.X “Premium” IQ example for 8 slice:
• 0.625:1 mode
• 5mm images
• 8 x 2.5mm detector mode
• 12.5mm/rotation
Cardiac Helical Overview
A lower pitch helical scan is available for cardiac applications in conjunction with the CardIQ
SnapShot option. In this scanning mode, heart rate monitoring is performed during the
helical acquisition and the associated EKG gating information is stored with the scan data
such that a cardiac gated SnapShot reconstruction algorithm can be applied for prospective
and retrospective images. SnapShot reconstruction is used to minimize the motion of the
heart in the resultant images. The pitch factor for the cardiac helical scan is determined by
the system and is a function of the patient heart rate.
Cardiac Helical imaging features include:
• Scan Speeds: 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, and 1.0 seconds.
• All kV and mA stations available, dependent on generator and tube limitations.
• 120 second maximum cardiac helical scan time.
• Pitches: determined by system, ranging from 1.1 – 2.4, based on patient heart rate. A
higher heart rate will use a higher pitch factor.
• Variable image thickness via acquisition slice thickness parameter only (1.25, 2.5, 3.75,
and 5.0mm). No image thickness recon parameter is available.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-19

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
• SnapShot Segment and Segmented (non-gated) reconstruction options.

• Cardiac phase location parameter of 0 to 99% of R-to-R cycle.
• 0.1mm minimum incremental retrospective recon image spacing.
Once the cardiac helical data has been collected, it can be reconstructed at one or more
arbitrary heart cycle phase locations. Segmented reconstruction is also available
retrospectively if non-gated images are desired.
Calibration Modes
LightSpeed 3.X calibrations include:
• Z-axis gain calibration - new for LightSpeed 3.X
• Tube warm-up
• Air calibration
• Phantom calibration, upgrades for 50cm SFOV
• Water Cal
• IQ Cal check
System Image Quality Features

“Lite” Geometry
The “Lite” geometry is common to the LightSpeed Plus and LightSpeed QX/i, HiSpeed X/i,
NX/i, and QX/i.
Benefits include:
• Produces (630/541)2 = 36% better X-Ray flux utilization than HiSpeed CT/i due to the
fact that the focal spot is moved closer to the patient. For axial scanning, images can be
generated with the same noise as HiSpeed CT/i using only 74% of the mAs.
• Reduce centrifugal force on the tube.
Clever Gain
LightSpeed 3.X will eliminate overranging by:
• Selecting a low enough gain so that the system does not overrange (31 gain DAS).
• Locking out high power techniques if low enough gain not available (140 kV, 4 x 5mm
only) (not including inefficiency due to detector collimator plates).
Scan and Recon Prescription User Interface (UIF)
All scan and recon options are clearly explained to the user.
Axial scan prescription describes various detector configuration, scan speeds, etc. Axial
recon prescription describe various recon slice thickness combinations and how these are
restricted by scan parameters.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
LightSpeed 3.X helical scan and recon prescriptions are more challenging than axial.
LightSpeed 3.X helical scanning will be: 4 slice = 4 detector macro rows x 2 pitches and 8
slice LightSpeed 3.X helical scanning will be = 2 detector macro rows x 4 pitches. Once the
scan data is collected, the LightSpeed 3.X recon algorithms support image reconstruction at
image thickness of 1x to 4x the detector macro-cell size. Therefore, image slice thickness is
now a recon parameter and not a scan parameter. Desired image thickness must be taken
into account during scan parameter selection.
Current X-Ray Tube Capacity Effects Prescriptions and

Interscan Delays
The system provides prescription alternatives when:
• Current prescription requires excessive prep, interscan, or intergroup delay.
• Technique requirements exceed the prescribed delays.
Although the rotating anode increases the tube's heat tolerance, it still has a physical limit.
The anode transfers its heat to the oil filled tube housing. The housing, in turn, dissipates
heat into the surrounding air.
The system keeps a running total of estimated tube heat. When you request scans during
Scan Prescription, the system estimates the number of heat units these scans will produce,
and compares this value with the running total.
If the prescription estimate exceeds the current capacity, the system displays a series of
prescription Optimize screens that recommend increased delays, alternative Scan Technic
settings, or offer to split the current scan group into smaller groups.
Focal Spot
The X-Ray tube contains a small filament and a large filament. The small filament
concentrates the focal spot size, which improves spatial resolution but cannot tolerate high
technique. The large filament tolerates high technique but loses some of the small
filament's spatial resolution.
The system automatically selects the focal spot size based on:
• power (Kw)
• kV
Example: Reduce mA setting from 210 mA to 200 mA (120kV) to enable Small Filament.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-21

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Filament Selection
On traditional single-slice CT systems, such as HiSpeed CT/i, the filament selection effects
the slice thickness for thin slices scanning, with a larger filament producing a larger effective
slice thickness. The LightSpeed 3.X 8-row detector has eliminated this effect, and true thin
slice imaging can be achieved using both the small and large filament.
Filament Selection Table

In order to provide the best image quality, and maximize patient throughput, the LightSpeed
3.X system bases the automatic filament selection upon the following table:
Performix Power Tube

Small Filament Large Filament
All Algorithms All Algorithms
80 kV 10 to 300 mA > 300 mA
100 kV 10 to 240 mA > 240 mA
120 kV 10 to 200 mA > 200 mA
140 kV 10 to 170 mA > 170 mA
Data Collection
The detector and MDAS assembly mounts opposite the X-Ray tube on the rotating base.
The X-Ray beam leaves the X-Ray tube, passes through the gantry opening, and enters the
detector. Any material (patient or phantom) positioned within the gantry opening absorbs
or deflects the weaker X-Ray photons. The numbers of photons that enter the detector
depends upon the intensity of the X-Ray beam and the density of the material in the gantry
opening. An increase in density causes a decrease in the number of photons that enter the
detector.
The revolutionary new LightSpeed detector allows 8 rows of data to be collected at a time
for both axial and helical imaging. This allows 8 axial images to be generated in a single
gantry rotation in the axial mode. This allows helical images to be taken at faster speeds,
and with lower power, than single slice scanners.
The MDAS measures the detected X-Ray at regular time intervals, called views, and
transmits the information to the image reconstructor for reconstruction into a display
image. The total degrees of gantry rotation and the scan time determine the number of raw
views per image.
For scans greater than 1 second, the raw views are summed together before image
reconstruction. This allows the system to maintain constant image reconstruction times and
spatial resolution/aliasing for all scan speeds. (Note that image reconstruction of more raw
views reduces aliasing at the expense of reconstruction time.)
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Example: A 1-second and a 4-second scan both gather data over 360 degrees, so both
scans reconstruct the same number of views per image. A segmented reconstruction uses
data acquired over 235 degrees, so it reconstructs fewer views per image.
Scan Parameters
Scan Choice Determines:

kV X-Ray energy intensity and calibration data used
mA X-Ray dose
Scan Time and Length of scan rotation in seconds; length of delay in
Interscan Delay seconds between exposures
Scan Rotation Degrees of scan rotation during data collection
(normal scan, partial scan) (X-Ray on)
Gantry Tilt Angle X-Ray travels through patient
Spacing Z-Axis distance between scan centers
Thickness Width of image
Azimuth X-Ray tube location during scout scan
Centimeters of data available, and any special
SFOV — Scan Field of View processing applied or available, for image
reconstruction.
Reconstruction
The scanner compares the collected data with the calibration data then converts the
detector channel views into a two dimensional matrix. The system converts each matrix
element (pixel) into a CT number. The system displays a scout image as it acquires the data,
but an axial image will be displayed after reconstruction is completed. The axial and scout
images take approximately three seconds to reconstruct.
Your choices control the image outcome. Choose parameters to enhance or tailor the
acquisition and processing to the anatomy of interest. Select scan technique and image
parameters that provide optimum resolution.
The system has disk space for 2000 1-second scan rotations (assumes a mix of 50% axial,
50% 10-second helical scans). The system stores the most recent scan data in the oldest
scan file with an unreserved status. The system continually overwrites the scan files with
data.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-23

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
CAUTION: If you plan to reconstruct images, you must use files that reside in the disk.
Either reserve the scan files you plan to retrospectively reconstruct, or
reconstruct unsaved scan files before the system overwrites the files with
new scan data. The system refuses to overwrite reserved scan files.
Remember to release the reserved scan files when you finish retrospective
reconstruction.
Helical Scan Data Usage

In general, every data channel will contribute to at least one image during helical image
reconstruction. Some data channels are not used at the very beginning and end of the
helical scan due to to the physics of multi-slice scanning and helical view weighting
algorithms.
During helical image reconstruction, some data channels in the middle of the helical scan
are not used if the image interval prescribed is GREATER THAN the values listed in the table
below.
For example, all data channels will be used for 1.25mm images, HQ mode, if the image
interval is less than or equal to 1.3mm.
Channel Utilization Table - Full Modes

Scan Mode Image Thickness
Helical Table Detector row
Pitch Speed collimation 0.63mm 1.25mm 2.5mm 3.75mm 5.0mm 7.5mm 10mm
(mm/rot) (mm)
6.25 1.25 1.24 4.45 6.80 5.74 8.10 10.60
0.625:1
12.5 2.5 2.49 6.78 10.77 15.70 16.72
8.75 1.25 1.24 4.38 6.94 5.74 8.11 10.61
0.875:1
17.5 2.5 2.49 6.79 11.04 15.70 16.72
13.5 1.25 2.50 6.24 7.18 7.23 9.60 11.98
1.350:1
27.0 2.5 4.99 9.47 11.69 14.98 14.02
16.75 1.25 2.49 4.97 6.33 7.81 9.57 11.92
1.675:1
33.5 2.5 4.97 9.60 10.18 15.15 13.96
11-24 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Channel Utilization Table - Plus Modes

Scan Mode Image Thickness
Table Detector
Helical Speed row 0.63mm 1.25mm 2.5mm 3.75mm 5.0mm 7.5mm 10mm
Pitch (mm/rot) collimation
(mm)
6.25 1.25 2.24 6.17 8.24 10.23 10.79 12.72
0.625:1
12.5 2.5 4.67 8.35 11.22 15.46 22.21
8.75 1.25 2.36 4.72 8.47 10.24 10.80 12.73
0.875:1
17.5 2.5 4.84 8.48 11.22 16.22 20.22
13.5 1.25 3.87 4.65 9.25 10.61 12.98 13.86
1.350:1
27.0 2.5 7.74 9.99 13.47 15.83 16.60
16.75 1.25 3.97 6.42 9.29 10.67 13.04 13.91
1.675:1
33.5 2.5 7.93 10.18 13.65 16.00 16.75
Nominal Helical Slice Thickness

Because the data for a helical image is weighted over more than one rotation, to provide the
best possible image quality the nominal image slice may differ slightly from the user
selection, dependent on table speed, pitch and slice selection. The nominal FWHM slice
widths are given in the following table.
Slice Thickness Full Mode
Selected Slice
Detector row
Scan Table Speed collimation 0.63mm 1.25mm 2.5mm 3.75mm 5.0mm 7.5mm 10.0mm
Mode (mm/rot)
(mm)
Axial N/A 0.60 1.09 2.34 3.75 4.84 7.35 9.84
1:1 1.25 0.63 1.25 — — — — — —
3.75 1.25 — 1.78 4.10 — — — —
7.5 2.5 — — 3.56 6.97 8.20 — —
0.75:1
11.25 3.75 — — — 5.30 10.00 12.30 —
15.0 5.0 — — — — 7.10 13.94 16.40
7.5 1.25 — 2.50 4.10 — — — —
15.0 2.5 — — 5.00 6.97 8.20 — —
1.5:1
22.5 3.75 — — — — 10.00 12.30 —
30.0 5.0 — — — — 10.00 13.94 16.40
Helical 6.25 1.25 — 2.08 4.64 7.76 9.97 — —
0.625:1 12.5 2.5 — —- 3.56 6.95 9.39 14.94 14.94
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-25

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Selected Slice
Detector row
Scan Table Speed collimation 0.63mm 1.25mm 2.5mm 3.75mm 5.0mm 7.5mm 10.0mm
Mode (mm/rot)
(mm)
Helical 8.75 1.25 — 2.02 4.46 7.36 9.97 — —
0.875:1 17.5 2.5 — — 3.29 6.10 9.18 13.69 13.69
Helical 13.5 1.25 — 2.47 6.42 8.71 9.95 — —
1.35:1 27 2.5 — — 4.94 7.16 13.23 16.79 22.66
Helical
16.75 1.25 — 2.45 6.01 9.53 11.27 — —
1.675:1
33.5 33.5 2.5 — — 4.90 8.34 14.20 16.75 21.14
Slice Thickness Plus Modes

Selected Slice
Scan Mode Table Speed 0.63mm 1.25mm 2.5mm 3.75mm 5.0mm 7.5mm 10.0mm
(mm/rot)
Axial N/A 0.85 1.09 2.34 3.59 4.84 7.34 9.84
Helical 1:1 1.25 0.95 — — — — — —
3.75 — 1.30 2.50 — — — —
Helical 7.5 — — 2.60 3.75 5.00 — —
0.75:1 11.25 — — — 3.90 5.00 7.50 —
15.0 — — — — 5.20 7.50 10.00
7.5 — 1.60 2.50 — — — —
15.0 — — 3.20 3.75 5.00 — —
Helical 1.5:1
22.5 — — — — 6.40 7.50 —
30.0 — — — — 6.40 7.50 10.00
Helical 6.25 — 1.35 2.60 4.15 5.30 — —
0.625:1 12.5 — — 2.60 3.80 5.30 8.55 11.55
Helical 8.75 — 1.30 2.65 4.10 5.30 — —
0.875:1 17.5 — — 2.55 3.65 5.25 8.05 10.45
Helical 13.5 — 1.60 3.00 4.30 6.15 — —
1.35:1 27 — — 3.20 3.75 5.90 8.15 10.85
Helical 16.75 — 1.65 2.95 4.10 5.75 — —
0.675:1 33.5 — — 3.15 3.95 6.20 8.25 10.80
Cardiac Helical Slice Profiles

Slice profile measurements for Cardiac helical scans are complicated by the fact that a
variable helical pitch is chosen based on the patient's heart rate. For helical pitches greater
than 2.0, the full width half max of a slice collimated at 1.25 is approximately 1.6mm. The full
width half max of a slice collimated at 2.5mm is approximately 3.2mm.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
When a pitch value significantly below 2.0 is chosen, the slice profile may vary significantly
from image to image in a single helical scan. The profile will depend on the location of the
prescribed image with respect to the detector locations. The variation in the slice profiles
can be understood by thinking of an axial scan. In an axial scan, an arbitrary image location
is not permitted. However, an attempt to create an image at an intermediate location could
be performed by using data from adjacent detector rows. This would result in an increased
slice profile. As the pitch becomes much less than 2.0, the helical scan data becomes more
and more like axial scan data.
At a pitch of 1.4, for example, which is the prescribed pitch for a Cardiac Segment scan with
a patient heartrate of 60 bpm and gantry period of 0.5 sec, a 35% variation in the nominal
FWHM is possible.
Calibration Scans
Calibrations scans of air, and uniform objects called phantoms, provide the baseline
information the system needs to produce patient images. The system needs calibration
data for every possible combination of kV, detector row thickness, focal spot size, and scan
field of view.
Warm-up Required
Warm-up the tube:
• Immediately before Cal Check.
• Immediately before Calibration.
• When the tube has cooled to the point that a warm-up is required to ensure optimal
image quality.
Data Storage
Octane Based System
The Console/Computer contains 18 gigabytes (Gb) of magnetic disk that records and retains
2000 1-second scan rotation files, a Reconstruction Processor that processes scan data into
image data, and a magnetic disk that stores CT specific scan software.
The computer contains 18 gigabytes (Gb) of system disk that hold about 20,000
uncompressed 5122 image files, along with software.
PC Based System
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-27

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Xtream Based System

Despite storage space, the system eventually runs out of disk space. If your facility plans to
preserve image data, you must periodically transfer images and scan information to the
designated archive media.
Image Display
Requested images pass through the IP (image processor) on their way to the CRT screen.
The Image Processor uses a bulk memory to store images selected for Auto View, MID,
paging, magnification, rotation, reformat or 3D (3D optional).
The images appear on the image monitor or CRT (cathode ray tube). The CRT screen
contains a display matrix of 1024 x 1024 picture elements, or 1,048,576 pixels. The 1024
display can be further divided into viewports. The number of viewports displayed determine
the number of pixels within a viewport. Each pixel displays one of the 256 available shades
of gray.
The LightSpeed 3.X system reconstructs axial and continuous images of 5122 pixels. Images
from other scanners may display 64, 128, 320, or 1024 pixel image matrices.
The amount of anatomy represented by each pixel equals the Display Field of View
diameter in mm divided by the matrix width/height.
The system assigns a unique CT number value, originally called a Hounsfield Unit, to each
pixel. The two dimensional pixel represents a three dimensional portion of patient tissue.
The pixel value represents the proportional amount of X-Ray beam that passed through
anatomy and entered the detector.
Gray Scale
The CRT translates the computed pixel value into a shade of gray. Your window Width and
Level choices control which range of CT values receive emphasis. The window Width
assigns the quantity of pixel values to the gray scale. The window Level determines the
center pixel value in the gray scale.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Possible range of pixel values
Width
Level
• Window Width = selected range of pixel values
• Window Level = middle value
The system displays every pixel value that falls outside the gray scale as either black or
white. It assigns a gray value to every pixel that falls within the selected window. IF enabled,
the filmed image displays a gray scale icon along the left border of the image.
The system displays the currently selected window Width and window Level along the
bottom of the screen: W = xxxxx and L = xxxxx. To determine the pixel values currently
represented by the gray scale: Divide the window Width by 2; add and subtract this number
to/from the window Level.
Example: W=320; L= -1500; 320 P 2 = 160

-1500 + 160 = -1340; -1500 - 160 = -1660
The gray scale represents values from -1340 to -1660
To find the best gray scale for an image, decrease the window width to 2. Increase or
decrease levels until the tissue of interest turns gray. Now increase the window width until it
includes the rest of the image.
CT Number
CT numbers range from -1024 to +3071. This system references CT number zero to water
and CT number -1000 to Air.
Lung and fat have negative pixel values and normally appear black. A CT number over 200
represents dense material like contrast agent, calcium, bone, and normally appears white.
Inverse Video reverses video white to black, but pixel values remain the same.
CAUTION: CT Numbers are NOT absolute; misdiagnosis is possible. System and patient
variables may effect CT Number accuracy. If you rely solely upon CT numbers
without taking the following variables into consideration you could
misdiagnosis an image.
The following variables effect CT Number accuracy:
• Partial volume effects of anatomy
• Scans acquired with IV or oral contrast agents
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 11-29

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
• X-Ray tube deterioration

• Improperly calibrated system (poorly centered phantom, used wrong phantom,
replaced current calibration files with extremely old Cal files)
• Beam hardening due to patient anatomy, especially bone.
To reduce CT Number variations:
• Warm-up the X-Ray tube whenever the system recommends it; make sure the tube
design matches the software configuration parameters
• Center the patient anatomy of interest in the gantry opening. Select an SFOV that
encompasses the patient.
• Acquire comparable images with similar scan and reconstruction choices.
• Maintain consistent table height throughout the exam.
• Test image quality on a regular basis to provide the numerical data to track system
performance over time.
To decrease the potential for misdiagnosis:
• Use ROI to compare pathology to surrounding tissue
• Scan structures with slice thicknesses about one-half the thickness of the lesion or less.
Example: Prescribe scan thickness of 5mm or less to scan a Lesion with a 10mm thickness.
(Display an axial image and use the Measure Distance and ROI functions to determine the
size of the pathology.
Center ROI measurements over the midpoint of the pathology to minimize partial volume
effects.
Variables You Cannot Control

The mixture of tissue types, such as fat with tissue within the same voxel (a pixel with depth),
varying patient sizes, differences between CT machines and X-Ray tubes, all lead to CT
number variance. In a well calibrated scanner, water has a CT number that ranges from -3
to +3. The CT number remains uniform across all kV settings. However, as the X-Ray tube
ages, kV decreases and pixel values become less dependable.
Pixels
The anatomic image consists of rows and columns of small, square, picture elements called
pixels. The CRT screen displays 1,048,576 pixels in a matrix of 1024 horizontal rows of 1024
pixels. Add number of viewports selected for viewing to determine the number of pixels used
for display in each viewport. The CRT screen pixel size remains the same, but the amount of
anatomy the pixels represent varies with the scan and display field of view (SFOV & DFOV). A
pixel also represents a specific anatomic area. The system identifies each two dimensional
pixel by its location, area and value.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Pixel Coordinates
Describe pixel location two ways.
• Matrix Coordinates: Upper left pixel = (0,0);
lower right pixel = (511,511);
pixel in center of matrix = (255,255);
pixel ten columns to the right = (10,0)
(0,0) (511,0)
axial image
(0,511) (511,511)
NOTE:
The illustration above represents a 512 x 512 matrix viewport.
• RAS: Anatomic distance from the center of the landmark slice
Target the image; decrease the DFOV diameter. Center the reconstruction on coordinates
other than the SFOV center.
Magnifying and targeting can displace the central SFOV pixel from the central CRT pixel.
Look at the DFOV coordinates and magnification annotation to find the SFOV center, or
display the grid. The grid always appears over the pixel in the center of the DFOV Matrix
(coordinate 255,255).
RAS Coordinates
These three distances in millimeters appear on the upper left of the viewport on which the
mouse cursor is on, when Continuous Report Cursor is selected.
• The pixel with the R/L and A/P coordinates closest to zero, represents the SFOV center.
The S/I coordinate always equals the table location at isocenter.
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S
A100.0
P R L
L 1 1
axial plane 0 0
0 axial image 0
R . .
A 0 0
P100.0
R 70 mm A 20 mm S 85.0
I
Coordinates transition from R to L, A to P, and S to I, to show relationships between current

location, landmark location, and isocenter.
Coordinate location falls to the patient's right of the

Right:
mid-sagittal plane (right of isocenter)
Coordinate location falls to the patient's left of the
Left:
mid-sagittal plane (left of isocenter)
Coordinate location falls above the mid-coronal plane
Anterior
(above isocenter)
Coordinate location falls below the mid-coronal plane
Posterior:
(below isocenter)
Scan location falls between the selected landmark and
Inferior:
patient's feet
Scan location falls between the selected landmark and
Superior:
patient's head
The DFOV and matrix determine pixel size.

A reconstructed pixel represents an area determined by dividing the Display FOV (in mm) by
the reconstruction matrix, squared. You may magnify pixels up to eight times the
reconstructed size, or minify them to one half size. The anatomic area represented by each
CRT pixel decreases as the magnification factor increases; anatomic area/CRT pixel
increases as the magnification factor decreases.
Pixel Size in millimeters

DFOV in cm 512 x 512
10 0.20
15 0.29
20 0.39
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Pixel Size in millimeters

DFOV in cm 512 x 512
22 0.43
25 0.49
30 0.59
35 0.68
40 0.78
45 0.88
50 0.98
The DFOV determines the anatomic area imaged by a single reconstruction.

• Area equals πr2 (Area =3.14 x radius x radius)
• The 50cm FOV has a 25cm radius, so its area equals 1963cm2.
• The ROI or magnification factor determines the anatomic area covered by a magnified
image.
Example: A CRT pixel represents 0.5 by 0.5mm. Magnify pixel size by 2. Each CRT pixel now
represents 0.25 by 0.25mm of anatomy.
Pixel Size equals DFOV P Matrix size

2.00
1.75
1.50 Pixel area

equals
1.25 pixel size
pixel size squared
(width) 1.00
in mm
0.75
512
0.50 Matrix
0.25
0.00
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450
DFOV in mm
Pixels and CT Numbers

Besides anatomic location and area, each CT pixel also represents a CT number, which in
turn indicates tissue density.
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• An ROI averages the values of the enclosed pixels, and displays the resulting Mean
value.
• Standard Deviation describes the difference between the minimum and maximum ROI
value.
• A large ROI provides a larger, more accurate statistical sample than a small ROI.
An image pixel represents a three dimensional volume, or voxel. It represents anatomy
with a location, an area, and a pixel (density) value. The system flattens the 0.625, 1.25, 2.5,
3.75, 5, 7.5, 10mm scan thickness into a two dimensional screen image. If a pixel represents
a variety of tissues, the system averages the contents to produce an averaged, rather than
accurate, pixel value. Uniform tissues (within the voxel) produce fairly accurate pixel values.
CT pixel shading shows relative density. Denser materials weaken X-Ray and produce
whiter pixels. (Assumes Inverse Video OFF)
MR pixel shading reflects relative physiology. Whiter pixels represent molecules that
relaxed earlier after magnetic alignment than the darker areas.
Reformat displays non axial planes created from contiguous pixels extracted from
multiple images. 3D locates similar pixel values within contiguous images, and generates a
mathematical model to produce images that appear three dimensional. BMD samples pixel
values to estimate bone or tissue density.
Reconstruction assigns one value to every image pixel. CT uses pixel values of -1024 to
+3071. MR uses pixel values of +16,000. The screen pixel translates the assigned value into
one of the 256 shades of gray. Vary the gray scale window width and level to select
anatomy for display. Window Width determines the quantity of gray pixel values. Window
Level selects the center Window Width pixel value.
Example: Two windows may contain identical widths of 100 values, but display completely
different anatomy, because one has a level of -100 and the other has a level of 150
Window Width
The system uses 256 CRT gray shades to display 4000 CT pixel values. The Window Width
selection determines the number of CT values represented by each CRT shade of gray. A
narrow window assigns fewer pixels to each gray level than a wide window.
Example: WW = 256 System assigns one pixel value to each gray shade WW = 2560 System
assigns ten pixel values to each gray shade.
Window Level
The Level equals the CT number value of pixel in the center of the Window Width range. The
Level value receives the middle shade of gray. The system displays pixel values that fall
between the center and upper window level as gray to off white. It displays pixel values that
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GENERAL INFORMATION
fall between the center and lower window values as gray to charcoal. When you change the
level, the window width moves up and down the CT number line. The CT values change with
Window Level, but the Window Width and number of pixels per gray level don’t change.
Inverse Video reverses display conventions. Dense or high numbers are portrayed as black
rather than white.
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QUALITY ASSURANCE
Chapter 12
QUALITY ASSURANCE
In order to assure consistent image quality over the system's lifetime, establish and
maintain a regular Quality Assurance (QA) program.
Scan a known material (usually a phantom) under a prescribed set of conditions.
• Compare the results to previous or optimum values.
• Repeat these tests on a regular basis to detect changes in image quality values before
the problem becomes visible.
– If you notice a degradation in image quality, or a change in QA values, you can
schedule a site visit and let the service person or imaging physicist run more detailed
tests.
– Early intervention could prevent a major breakdown.
Quality Assurance begins with baseline performance data acquired during system
installation, or after the repair or replacement of an X-Ray tube, collimator, detector, DAS, or
PDU circuitry.
• Compare subsequent QA results against the baseline.
• You can save baseline images for a visual comparison with your daily QA checks, but
the measurement values provide a more objective way to monitor quality.
NOTE: Copy the QA Data Form found at the end of this section. Use the form to record
baseline data and subsequent QA data.
QA Phantom
Use the Quality Assurance Phantom to assess system performance and establish an
ongoing Quality Assurance program.
The phantom design provides maximum performance information with minimum effort.
This phantom measures six aspects of image quality.
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• Contrast Scale
• High Contrast Spatial Resolution
• Low Contrast Detectability
• Noise and Uniformity
• Slice Thickness
• Laser Light Accuracy
The QA phantom contains three sections, each corresponding to a single scan plane.
• Section 1: Resolution block S0mm scan location
• Section 2: Contrast membrane S40mm scan location
• Section 3: Water bath S60mm scan location
The following illustration contains a list of the sections and corresponding tests.
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Figure 12-1 QA Phantom
Section 1
High contrast resolution

Contrast scale
Slice thickness
Laser accuracy
Location: S0mm
Section 2
Low contrast detectability
Location: S40mm
Section 3
Noise and Uniformity
Location: S60mm
QA Schedule
Each facility determines QA and phantom calibration schedule.
GE recommends that you acquire scans of Sections 1, 2 and 3 of the QA Phantom each day.
Create a Scan Protocol file for these QA scans.
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Figure 12-2 QA Phantom Alignment

Vertical Reference Line
Circumferential
Reference Line
Horizontal
Reference Line
Horizontal
Reference Line
Note:
Reference lines are etched

into the plastic and are
unpainted.
System Performance
Maintain Image Quality
Many factors affect Image Quality:
• Proper alignment of X-Ray tube, DAS, detector, and table
• KV and mA adjustments within specifications
• Current Calibration files
• Tube Warmup every time the system recommends it
• Daily Fastcals
• Appropriate pixel size, slice thickness, reconstruction algorithm, and special processing
selections during Scan Rx
• Patient remains motionless during scan acquisition
At least three people must cooperate to produce optimum images:
• Service representative aligns the system and adjusts kV and mA
• Operator follows facility guidelines to maintain daily image quality, prescribe the
exams, and update the calibration files
• Patient follows operator (and autovoice) instructions during exam
A QA program helps locate the source of image quality problems:
• Replaces patient with phantom
• Provides standard Scan Rx parameters
• Provides System Performance tests and comparisons
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Position the QA Phantom

Place the QA phantom on the phantom holder, and level it.
Turn the knob facing the cradle CW to tilt the top of the phantom AWAY from the gantry.
Use the laser alignment lights to position the phantom:
1. Align the axial light to the circumferential line marking Section 1.
2. Align the coronal light to the horizontal lines on either side of the phantom.
3. Align the sagittal light (where it strikes the top of the phantom) to the vertical line on the
top of the phantom.
4. Position the phantom and select .
Prescribe the QA Series for the Resolution, Low Contrastability, and Noise and
Uniformity Tests
1. Click [New Patient] to display the Patient/Exam Parameters screen.
Use the same ID for all related QA tests so you can store the exams together.
2. Enter any additional information in the corresponding data field(s). (Optional)
3. Exam Description: Enter up to 22 characters to describe the test. (Recommended)
4. Select a protocol from the anatomical selector to select a QA protocol. (If available)
If your facility hasn't created a QA protocol, use the following parameters to finish the QA
series prescription:
On the Helical View Edit screen select the following parameters:
Table 12-1 Parameters for QA
Interface Input
Entry Head First
Position Supine
Anatomical Reference QA
Landmark Location 0 on resolution phantom at circumferential line/cross hatch.
Scan Type Helical 0.75:1
Scan Range I0 - S60
Thickness 10
Table Speed 15
Recon Interval 10
Tilt 0 degrees
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Interface Input
Scan FOV Small
kV 120
mA 190
Rotation Speed 1 second
DFOV 25cm (phantom diameter:approximately 21.5cm)
Standard and Bone to test high contrast resolution.
Algorithm Standard to test low contrast detectability
Standard for pixel value noise and uniformity
Matrix 512
Contrast None
Special Processing None
Analyze the QA Images

1. Display the first QA image, which is section #1 at scan location S0.
2. Copy the QA Data Form at the end of this section.
3. Record the data from the tests that follow in the corresponding area of the form.
4. Compare the current values to previously recorded values.
If you notice a significant change in values, check the Small SFOV calibration status.
5. Calibrate the Small SFOV if the most recent calibration date falls outside the guidelines
established by your facility.
6. Report significant changes, or values that fall outside suggested windows, to your
supervisor or imaging physicist.
7. Follow facility procedures to notify service personnel.
8. Perform the following:
a) Contrast Scale test at scan location S0 of the helical scan.
b) High Contrast Spatial Resolution test at scan location S0 of the helical scan.
c) Low Contrast Detectability test at scan location S40 of the helical scan.
d) Noise and Uniformity test at scan location S60 of the helical scan.
e) Slice Thickness test at scan location S0 of the axial slice thickness scans.
f) Alignment Light Accuracy test at scan location S0 of the Alignment Light test scan.
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Contrast Scale
Section 1 of the Phantom Tests the Contrast Scale
CT assigns CT numbers, also called (HU) Hounsfield Units, to the attenuation values of X-Ray
passing through a variety of material densities.
Software makes the attenuation visible by assigning shades of gray to groups of numbers
selected with the Window Width/ Level functions during image Display.
For test purposes, the CT values of water and plexiglass in the phantom represent the
standard against which you track the system contrast scale over time.
The test for contrast scale follows:
Figure 12-3 Contrast Scale Phantom Section
Position 10mm box ROI

over water
Position 10mm box ROI
over Plexiglass
1. Select Box ROI to position a 10mm box cursor on the image, as shown in Table 12-3 on
page 7.
2. For consistency, use the same size cursor and location each time you perform this test.
3. Select Grid to provide a reference.
4. Select Box ROI to position a cursor over the Plexiglass resolution block (refer to
Table 12-3 on page 7).
5. Record the mean CT number on the QA Data Form.
6. Optional: Record the Standard deviation
7. Select Box ROI to position a cursor over water (refer to Table 12-3 on page 7).
8. Record the mean CT number for water on the QA Data form.
9. Optional: Record the Standard deviation
10. Subtract the CT number of water from the CT number of Plexiglass
Record the difference on the QA Data form.
The difference should equal 120 +/-12.
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High Contrast Spatial Resolution

Section 1 (Figure 12-4) of the phantom contains six sets of bar patterns in a Plexiglass block
used to test high contrast spatial resolution.
Each pattern consists of sets of equally sized bars and spaces
Water fills the spaces and provides about 12% (120 HU) contrast.
The resolution block contains the following bar sizes:1.6mm, 1.3mm, 1.0mm, 0.8mm, 0.6mm,
and 0.5mm.
1. Examine the bar patterns to determine the limiting resolution, defined as the smallest
bar pattern in which you see all five bars.
2. You should see all five 0.6mm bars in images reconstructed with the Bone algorithm
(15cm FOV).
3. Using the standard algorithm, measure the standard deviation of the pixel values in a
single or multiple bar pattern to provide a quantitative method for assessing changes in
system resolution.
4. ROI standard deviation provides a good indicator of system resolution and a sensitive
method to detect changes in system resolution.
The recommended procedure follows:
Figure 12-4 High Contrast Spatial Resolution Section
Position box cursor over largest
bar pattern, and size it until it
fits over the pattern.
Optional: repeat for 1.3mm,

1.0mm and 0.8mm patterns
5. Select Erase to remove previous ROI data.

6. Position a box cursor over the largest (1.6mm) bar pattern, and size it to fit within the bar
pattern as shown in Figure 12-4.
7. Record the standard deviation on the QA data form.
Standard deviation should equal 37 +/- 4, if you used standard algorithm.
Optional: Repeat this procedure for the 1.3, 1.0, and 0.8mm bar patterns.
8. Record the standard deviation on the QA data form.
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MTF (optional)
The Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) mathematically quantifies high contrast
resolution.
MTF measures the contrast preserved for a sine wave pattern as a function of frequency.
An MTF curve begins at 1 for zero frequency, and decreases as frequency increases.
Example: An MTF of 1 equals total preservation of contrast
Example: An MTF of 0.5 equals 50% loss of contrast
The limiting resolution equals the frequency at which MTF falls to 0.
An MTF curve is shown in Figure 12-19.
Measure Frequency in line pairs per centimeter.
One line pair per centimeter equals one 5mm Plexiglass bar next to one water filled 5mm
space.
Optional: Consult the publication listed as Reference 1 in section for MTF measurement
instructions (Droege RT, Morin RL. “A Practical Method to Measure the MTF of CT Scanners,”
Medical Physics, Volume 9, No. 5, pp 758-760, 1982).
Low Contrast Detectability

Section 2 of the QA phantom tests low contrast detectability, defined here as the smallest
hole size visible for a given contrast level at a given dose.
This phantom section contains a doped polystyrene membrane suspended in water and
pierced by a series of holes in the following sizes: 10.0mm, 7.5mm, 5.0mm, 3.0mm, and
1.0mm.
• The difference in CT numbers between the water, and water plus plastic, equals the
contrast in Hounsfield Units (HU).
• Your first contrast measurement of the QA phantom establishes its baseline.
Subsequent measurements should fall within 0.1% of the baseline. (1HU)
• Divide the HU value by ten to obtain the contrast in percent.
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• Measure the contrast between the plastic membrane and the surrounding water in the
following manner:
Figure 12-5 Low Contract Detectability Section
A. Position box ROI over polystyrene B. Position box ROI over
membrane above holes. water above membrane.
Subtract B from A.
Count visible holes. Subtract D from C.
D. Position box ROI

over water below
C. Position box ROI over polystyrene membrane.
membrane below holes.
1. Display an image of Section 2, which is at scan location S40.

3. Select a Box ROI, and adjust the size to a rectangle about 5mm high and 50mm long.
4. First, position the ROI over the polystyrene membrane, just above the holes, as shown in
Figure 12-5.
5. Record this membrane CT number in the Top CT# column.
QA data form (Figure 12-11) at the end of this section.
6. Select Box ROI to position a cursor over the (100%) water section above the membrane,
as shown in Figure 12-5.
7. Record this water CT number in the Top CT# column.
8. Subtract the water's CT number from the membrane's CT number.
9. Record the difference.
11. Select Box ROI to position the cursor over the polystyrene membrane, just below the
holes, as shown in Table 12-5, “Low Contract Detectability Section,” on page 10-C.
12. Record this membrane CT number in the Bottom CT# column.
QA data form (Figure 12-11) is at the end of this section.
13. Select Box ROI to position the cursor over the (100%) water section below the
membrane, as shown in Figure 12-5.
14. Record this Water CT number in the Bottom CT# column.
15. Subtract the water's CT number from the membrane's CT number.
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QUALITY ASSURANCE
16. Record the difference.

18. Adjust the Window Width to 30 and the Window Level to the CT number you recorded
for water.
19. Count and record the number of visible holes.
Noise and Uniformity

Section 3 (Figure 12-6) of the phantom tests noise and uniformity, which is at scan location
S60.
Noise limits low contrast resolution, and masks anatomy with similar structure to
surrounding tissue.
QA phantom Section 3 provides a uniform image by which to assess image CT number noise
and uniformity.
Use the Standard algorithm to reconstruct the image.
Figure 12-6 Noise and Uniformity Section
Optional: Take a box ROI

Position 2cm box ROI over at the 12 o’clock position
the center of the image. 75mm from center box.
Optional: Take a box ROI at

the 3 o’clock position
75mm from center box.
Image noise equals the standard deviation of CT numbers within a region of interest (ROI).
Noise results from electronic, mechanical, and mathematical differences in detected X-Ray
energy, electronic outputs, and reconstruction algorithms.
Tube Warmups, up to date calibration files, and daily Fastcals minimize noise and help
provide uniform images.
Refer to Figure 12-6.
2. Select Box ROI to position a 2 cm box ROI over the center of the image.
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3. Record the mean CT number and standard deviation on the QA Data Form.
QA data form (Figure 12-11) is at end of this section.
4. Optional: Select Box ROI and move the cursor to the 12 o'clock position.
6. Optional: Select Box ROI to move the cursor to the 3 o'clock position.
If the Image is reconstructed with Standard algorithm and Small SFOV, the Mean of
Center ROI should equal 0+/-3.
Standard deviation of the center ROI should equal 3.0 +/- 0.4
The uniformity difference between the center ROI and the average of the edge ROIs
should be 0 +/- 3.
Slice Thickness
Section 1 of the phantom also tests slice thickness.
Both sides of the resolution block contain a pattern of air filled holes designed to
demonstrate slice thickness (refer to Figure 12-7).
Figure 12-7 Slice Thickness Section
Air filled
holes
The resolution block contains holes drilled 1mm apart and positioned to form a line at 45
degrees to the scan plane.
Each visible hole in the image represents 1mm of beam thickness.
The software assigns less negative CT numbers to partial hole images or holes located on
the edge of the slice profile.
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Prescribe the QA Series for the Slice Thickness Test - Phantom Section #1
1. Select a protocol from the anatomical selector to select a QA protocol (if available).
2. If your facility hasn't created a QA protocol, use the following parameters to finish the
QA series prescription:
3. On the Axial View Edit screen select the following parameters:
Table 12-2 QA Protocol for Slice Thickness
Interface Input
Entry Head First
Position Supine
Anatomical Reference QA
Scan Type Axial
Scan Range Prescribe 4 Groups
Group Thickness Scan Range Spacing
1 5mm/4I I7.5 - S7.5 0
2 3.75mm/4I I5.6 - S5.5 0
3 2.5mm/8I I8.75 - S8.75 0
4 1.25mm/8I I4.4 - S4.4 0
5 0.625mm/16I I4.6875 - S4.6875 0
6 2.5mm/4I I3.75-S3.75 0
Tilt 0 degrees
Scan FOV Small
kV 120
mA 260
Algorithm Standard
Matrix 512
Contrast None
4. Analyze the Slice Thickness in Images
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5. To determine slice thickness, display the image at the recommended window level and
width, and count the visible holes.
Black lines in the image represent a full millimeter of slice thickness.
Gray lines count as fractions of a millimeter; two equally gray holes count as a single
1mm slice thickness.
Recommended window width: 250
Recommended window level:
• -100 for 1.25mm
• -25 for 2.5mm
• +25 for 3.75mm
• + 50 for 5.0mm
Figure 12-8 Slice Thickness Lines
Adjust the window width and level, then
count the lines, which represent the air
filled holes.
Note: The slice thickness bars

are less distinctive in helical scans..
Each black line represents one

millimeter of slice thickness. Gray
lines represent fractions of a
millimeter
You should see one line for each millimeter of scan thickness.
Figure 12-8 represents a 5mm image.
Alignment Light Accuracy (Crucial During Biopsies)

The manufacturers drilled deeper center holes on the reference to help identify them in the
image.
The center hole position corresponds precisely to the etched marker placed on the
circumference of the phantom.
When you use an accurate light, and align the phantom's circumferential etched marker to
the axial light, the resulting image should contain a symmetrical hole pattern around the
center (longer) hole in the slice thickness pattern.
For best results, use the 2mm/4i slice thickness.
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Prescribe the QA Series for Alignment Light Accuracy - Phantom Section #1

Select a protocol from the anatomical selector to select a QA protocol. (If available) If your
facility hasn't created a QA protocol, use the following parameters to finish the QA series
prescription:
On the Axial View Edit screen select the following parameters:
Table 12-3 Parameters for Alignment Lights Check
Interface Input
Entry Head First
Position Supine
Type EX for the external alignment light test
Anatomical Reference
Type IN for the internal alignment light test.
Scan Type Axial
Scan Range I3.75 - S3.75
Thickness 2.5 mm/4i
Tilt 0 degrees
Scan FOV Small
kV 120
mA 260
Algorithm Standard
Matrix 512
Contrast None
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Figure 12-9 Alignment Light Section
Center hole position corresponds to

etched line around phantom
circumference.
Align etched line on phantom

to positioning light
1. Align the phantom to the Internal light and scan it.

The actual scan plane should equal 0 +/- 2.0mm.
2. Align the phantom to the External light and scan it.
The actual scan plane should equal 0 +/- 2.0mm.
Figure 12-9 and phantom positioning instructions.
3. Align the vertical, horizontal and circumferential lines on the phantom to the
corresponding laser lines.
Azimuth 0 laser: Center phantom left and right within the FOV
Azimuth 90 and 270 lasers: Center phantom up and down within the FOV.
4. Scan the phantom.
5. Display the resulting phantom image.
6. Select Grid to check sagittal and coronal light accuracy.
7. Center the phantom to isocenter, +/-4.0mm, along the sagittal and coronal planes.
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Figure 12-10 Grid Check

A125.0 Hospital name a centered
Ex: 100 Console1 Patient name 5mm scan
Ser: 1 Patient ID
date of scan
QA S0.0
matrix size
Img: 2
mag factor
DFOV 25.0cm
STND
L
R 1
1 2
2 5
.
.5 0
0 S0.0
kV 120
mA 260
Small
5.0mm
Tilt 0.0 R0.0
P125.0
W = 250 L = –50
QA phantom “Prone” or “Supine” A0.0
Typical Results and Allowable Variations

Because the human eye determines clinical image quality, it remains subjective and difficult
to define.
GE expects the standards of allowable variation in image quality parameters to vary with
the installation and image evaluator(s).
GE encourages you to establish and follow a Quality Assurance (QA) program so you can
discover any degradation of image quality before it effects clinical images.
Over time, institutions use the QA procedure to establish a correlation between acceptable
clinical image quality and acceptable variations in the image performance indices included
in the program.
Compare your images to the set of performance images that accompanied your system.
This section contains suggested allowable variations; don't mistake them for absolutes.
Compare any parameter variation to the maximum deviation specified in the next section
called, Dose and Performance.
Make sure you used the prescribed technique, then follow your facility guidelines to inform
service when the variations reach the specified maximum deviation.
Contrast Scale
The difference in CT numbers between the Plexiglass resolution block and water should
equal 120, with a suggested allowable variation of 10%.
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High Contrast Spatial Resolution

The standard deviation for an ROI in the 1.6mm bar pattern should equal 37 +/- 4 for the
standard algorithm.
Axial Scan Slice Thickness
Slice thickness should not vary by more than +/- 1mm from the expected value, when
evaluated according to instructions.
Relatively large tolerance due to size of markers in phantom.
Low Contrast Detectability

Because this test relies upon the perceptual judgment of the person counting visible and
well-defined holes, GE can't suggest an allowable variation. Rather, we suggest you choose
a single, barely visible hole and closely monitor that particular hole during subsequent
testing for degradation in this image parameter.
Noise & CT Number of Water

When you correctly image and analyze the water section of the phantom, you should see a
CT number for water of 0 +/- 3 HU for the center ROI. The uniformity difference between the
Center ROI and the average of the edge ROIs should be 0 +/- 3 for Small Body (0 +/- 10
maximum deviation if Large Body is used).
Expect the noise in the center of the image to approximately equal 3.0 +/- 0.4.
References
Droege RT, Morin RL. “A Practical Method to Measure the MTF of CT Scanners,” Medical Physics, Volume 9, No. 5,
pp 758-760, 1982.
Jacobson DR. “Quality Assurance for Computed Tomography — Correlation with System Performance,”
Application of Optical Instrumentation in Medicine XI, D. Fullerton, Editor, Proc. SPIE 419, pp 157-165, 1983.
AAPM, “Phantoms for Performance Evaluation and Quality Assurance of CT Scanners,” Report No. 1, American
Association of Physicists in Medicine, 1977
12-18 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Figure 12-11 .QA Master Data Form
QA Data Form date:

Contrast Scale Mean CT Std. Dev. High Contrast Bar Size Std. Dev.
# Spatial Resolution
plastic 1.6
spec 37+/–4
1.3
water 1.0
difference 0.8
120+/–12
Slice Thickness # of Visible Lines Alignment Light

centered Y/N
Accuracy
INT axial
EXT axial
5.0 3.75
90/270 laser
W/L 100/50 W/L 100/+25
2.5 1.25
0 laser
W/L 100/–25 W/L 100/–100

Low Contrast Top Bottom Noise and Uniformity
detectability CT # CT # spec: measurement:
membrane Mean CT #
0 +/– 3
(Ctr. ROI)
water Std. Dev.
3.2+/– 0.3
(Ctr. ROI)
difference
Uniformity
0 +/– 3
(Ctr. Mean-
smallest hole Edge Mean)
W/L used (30/0)
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-19

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
DOSIMETRY
Dosimetry information is provided in terms of the CTDI and CTDIw dose indices. Optionally
CTDIvol and its associated DLP (dose length product) is automatically computed and
displayed on the patient Rx menu to assist in managing patient dose. This section provides a
brief description to help you better understand these dose reporting standards.
General Information
Dose is the amount of energy imparted by the X-ray beam at a given point in an exposed
material (patient tissue, phantom, air, etc. ) and is measured in units of mGy (milli Gray).
(The old unit was the Rad which equals 10 mGy.) Dose is dependent on the energy
absorption factors of the material and on the X-ray exposure. The X-ray exposure is
measured in C/kg (coulombs per kilogram) and is dependent on the technique factors used
for the scan. The dose is generally proportional to the exposure which increases with
increasing mA, kV and scan time. The X-ray exposure to a point occurs from both direct
X-ray from the tube and from scattered X-ray due to adjacent material exposure.
NOTE: CTDIvol = CTDIw/Scan mode adjustment factor
Reference IEC 60601-2-44.
See Scan mode adjustment factor table for factor to use.
Patient biological risk is related to dose but is also highly dependent on the specific organs
exposed. The effective dose is a way to characterize patient risk. The effective dose is the
sum of the doses weighted in accordance with the specific radio-sensitivity of the particular
organs or tissues exposed. Weighting values are published in ICRP 60 (International
Committee on Radiation Protection, Publication 60). Although we can accurately describe
the X-ray exposure potential to a patient for a CT scan, we can not easily determine the
patient dose or risk in terms of effective dose. This is because each patient is anatomically
unique and the specific details of his or her anatomy along with the source exposure must
be processed using time consuming monte-carlo computer programs to predict how
radiation will be scattered and accumulated at various points within the patient.
Since it is not possible to characterize the specific dose given to individual patients, the
CTDI and CTDIw dose indices are provided to help make relative comparisons. These dose
index values can be used to compare CT systems and to help you select operating
conditions for scanning.
Figure 12-12 CTDI Dose Reference Phantom Description
B Head Phantom 16 cm dia.
Body Phantom 32 cm dia.
Material PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate)
E A C Thickness >14 cm thick
A thru E Pencil chamber openings
A Center
D B thru E Peripheral 1 cm from surface
12-20 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
CTDI
CT Dose Index (CTDI) was established by the FDA and has been in use for many years. The
method is defined by U.S. Federal Regulation 21CFR 1020.33 (C). It provides a way to
determine the dose at specific points (center and peripheral) in a head or body size
reference phantom (refer to Figure 12-12). The CTDI dose is the dose absorbed in the
phantom material (PMMA) at a point when a volume of 7 contiguous slices are scanned
adjacent to each side of the point. (The contiguous adjacent slices contribute to much of the
total dose.)
Mathematical Definition of CTDI
7
1 Q = number detector macro rows per scan
&7', ' ]G] 7 = row detection width
Q7
D(z) = Z axis dose profile (absorbed in PMMA)
7
CTDI dose tables and index factors are provided in the following section. To determine the
CTDI dose, select the appropriate standard technique dose (head or body) and multiply by
the factors for describing the technique used.
Figure 12-13 CTDI TABLES and FACTORS
Typical Techniques for CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw

HEAD-axial-cine BODY-axial-cine
25cm SFOV 50cm SFOV
120kv 120kv
260 mA 260 mA
1 sec scan 1 sec scan
5 mm, 4i mode 5 mm, 4i mode
Figure 12-14 CTDI Dose Values
TABLE of CTDI DOSE VALUES (mGy)

AT TYPICAL TECHNIQUE
Head A Head B Body A Body B
36.51 39.84 10.42 24.50
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LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 12-15 CTDI KV, Scan Mode, and mAs Adjustment Factors
KV Adjustment Factor
KV Head A Head B Body A Body B
80 0.34 0.37 0.27 0.33
100 0.63 0.65 0.57 0.61
120 1 1 1 1
140 1.37 1.36 1.44 1.36
mAs ADJUSTMENT FACTOR = Rx mA * Rx single rotation time in seconds/ 260
Scan Mode Adjustment Factor

Slice Scan Modes
Axial &
Pitch 0.75:1 1.5:1 0.625:1 0.875:1 1.35:1 1.675:1 1:1
Cine
Factor 1.33 0.67 1.60 1.14 0.74 0.60 1 0.5
In the cases of cardiac helical scans, the following Scan Mode adjustment factor should be
used:
Figure 12-16 Cardiac Scan Mode Adjustment Factors
Helical Pitch Factor Helical Pitch Factor Cardiac Helical Scan
GE Traditional Def. (IEC Definition) Mode Factor
2.2 0.275 3.64
2.4 0.30 3.33
2.6 0.325 3.08
2.8 0.35 2.86
Table 12-4 Table of Acquisition Mode Parameters for CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw
Table of Acquisition Mode Parameters for CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw
Helical mm/Rotation per Pitch Axial and Cine
and Acquisition Mode Slice Thickness
(mm) (mm)
Acq. 0.75 1.5 0.625 0.875 1.35 1.675 8i 4i 3i 2i 1i
8 x 2.50 — — 12.5 17.5 27.0 33.5 2.5 — — — —
8 x 1.25 — — 6.25 8.75 13.5 16.75 1.25 — — — —
4x5 15.0 30.0 — — — — — 5.0 — 10.0 —
4 x 3.75 11.25 22.5 — — — — — 3.75 7.5 7.5 —
4 x 2.50 7.50 15.0 — — — — — 2.5 5.0 5.0 10.0
4 x 1.25 3.75 7.50 — — — — — 1.25 2.5 2.5 5.0
1 x 1.25 — — — — — — — — — — 1.25
12-22 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Table 12-5 CTDI Aperture Adjustment Factors for Large Spot
CTDI Aperture Adjustment Factors for Large Spot

Acquisition Mode Head A Head B Body A Body B
8 x 2.50 0.62 0.68 0.48 0.57
8 x 1.25 0.64 0.88 0.49 0.94
4X5 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
4 x 3.75 0.90 0.97 0.86 0.96
4 x 2.50 0.85 0.93 0.76 0.91
4 x 1.25mm 0.76 1.05 0.58 1.13
1 X 1.25 1.84 1.67 1.47 2.67
Table 12-6 Table of Acquisition Mode Parameters for CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw
CTDI Aperture Adjustment Factors for Small Spot

8 x 2.50 0.58 0.63 0.44 0.53
8 x 1.25 0.56 0.76 0.34 0.67
4X5 0.92 0.92 0.91 0.90
4 x 3.75 0.90 0.96 0.86 0.93
4 x 2.50 0.80 0.87 0.71 0.85
4 x 1.25 0.67 0.92 0.51 1.00
2 x 0.625 0.55 1.66 0.45 1.66
1 X 1.25 1.61 1.46 1.17 2.23
For example, the peripheral CTDI body dose for a 7.5mm/sec Helical scan in 0.75:1 mode,
scan at 150 mA, 0.8 Sec per rotation and 140 kv is determined as follows:
24.50 mGy body peripheral dose at typical technique from CTDI table
x 1.36 140 kv factor from CTDI kv table
x 1.33 0.75:1 adjustment factor from CTDI Scan Mode table
x 0.85 7.5mm/sec aperture adjustment factor from:
CTDI aperture factor < 24 KW table
(i.e. 140 kv x 150 mA =18 KW which is
< 24 WK)
x 120/260 120 mAs adjustment factor
(150mA x .8Sec)
=17.39 mGy computed CTDI Body Peripheral dose
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-23

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
CTDIw
CTDIw is a new dose index defined in international standard IEC 60601-2-44. CTDIw is a
single number which consists of 2/3 of the CTDI100 peripheral dose plus 1/3 of the CTDI100
central dose. The CTDI100 dose is similar to CTDI since it is measured using the same PMMA
phantom center and peripheral points; however, the 14 contiguous slices are changed to a
fixed 100mm. Also, although dose is measured at locations within the PMMA phantom, it is
quoted as the dose absorbed in air rather than PMMA (absorption in air is about 11% higher
than absorption in PMMA).
CTDI100 provides a better relative index for narrow slices than CTDI. CTDI can give the
impression that narrow slices produce less dose than thicker slices but this is only because
the index is defined for 14 slices and typical modern procedures will include scattered dose
form from more than 7 adjacent slices. Combining 2/3 of the CTDI100 peripheral dose with
1/3 of the CTDI100 central dose provides a single simple metric (CTDIw) to describe the
relative dose associated with a scan.
Mathematical Definition of CTDI100 and CTDI W
+50PP Q = number detector macro rows per scan

1 7 = row detection width
&7', 100 = ' D]G] Da(z) = dose profile in Z axis (asborbed in air)
Q7
–50PP
&7', Z = [ &7', SHULSKHU DO+ [ &7', FHQW
CTDI100 and CTDIw dose tables and index factors are provided in the following section. The
system computes CTDIvol automatically. However you may compute either the CTDI100 or
CTDIw in a similar manner as for CTDI. Note that system computations may vary slightly
from manual calculations due to differences in round-off or truncation operations.
CTDI100 Typical Technique

(Typical techniques for CTDI100 and CTDIw are the same as for CTDI stated above)
Table of CTDI100 Dose Values (mGy) at Typical

Technique
Head A Head B Body A Body B
46.75 47.72 14.34 29.34
TABLE of CTD I100 KV, SCAN MODE, and mAs

ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
(Refer to CTDI Table above)
12-24 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Table 12-7 0 Aperture Adjustment Factors for Large Spot
CTDI100 Aperture Adjustment Factors for Large Spot

8 x 2.50 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
8 x 1.25 1.17 1.16 1.16 1.14
4 X 5.0 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
4 x 3.75 1.02 1.02 1.02 1.02
4 x 2.50 1.10 1.09 1.09 1.08
4 x 1.25 1.47 1.46 1.46 1.45
1 x 1.25 3.37 3.37 3.50 3.50
CTDI100 Aperture Adjustment Factors for Small Spot (<24kW)

8 x 2.50 0.92 0.92 0.91 0.90
8 x 1.25 1.09 1.09 1.09 1.08
4 X 5.0 0.92 0.92 0.91 0.90
4 x 3.75 1.02 1.01 1.01 1.00
4 x 2.50 1.03 1.03 1.02 1.02
4 x 1.25 1.29 1.29 1.29 1.29
2 x 0.625 1.46 1.50 1.47 1.49
1 x 1.25 2.95 2.95 2.95 2.95
Example 1 — The CTDI100 body peripheral dose for a 3.75mm/sec Helical scan in 0.75:1
mode, scan at 250 mA, 1.0 Sec per rotation and 120 kv is determined as follows::
29.34 mGy body peripheral dose at typical technique from CTDI100 table
3.75mm/sec 0.75:1 aperture adjustment factor from:
x 1.45 CTDI100 aperture factor large spot >24 KW table (i.e. 120 kv x 250 mA
=30 KW which is > 24 WK)
x 250/260 250 mAs (250 mA x 1 Sec) factor from CTDI table
= 54.41 mGy computed CTDI100 Body peripheral dose
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-25

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Example 2 — The CTDI100 body center dose for example 1 is determined as follows:
14.34 mGy body center dose at typical technique from CTDI100 table
3.75mm/sec 0.75:1 aperture adjustment factor from:
x 1.46 CTDI100 aperture factor large spot >24 KW column (i.e. 120 kv x 250 mA
=30 KW which is > 24 WK)
x 250/260 250 mAs (250 mA x 1 Sec) factor
= 26.77 mGy computed CTDI100 Body center dose
Example 3: The CTDIw body dose for example 1 and 2 is computed as:
54.41 x 2/3 + 26.77 x 1/3 = 45.20 mGy
Example 4: The CTDI body dose for a 10mm 1i, axial scan, at 150 mA, 1.0 Sec per rotation,
120 kv and a 30mm table increment is determined as follows:
14.34, center, peripheral dose from CTDI100 table
29.34 mGy
x 1/3 axial increment factor (10 x1)/30 from CTDI100 special case table
10mm, 1i aperture adjustment factor from:
x 1.02, 1.02 CTDI100 aperture factor small spot < 24 KW column (i.e. 120 kv x 150
mA =18 KW which is < 24 WK)
x 150/260 150 mAs (150 mA x 1 Sec) factor
= 2.81, CTDI100 center, peripheral dose
5.76 mGy
4.78 mGy CTDIvol (2.81/3 + 5.76 x 2/3)
Example 5:The CTDI100 body dose for a cardiac helical scan using 1.25mm slice thickness
with helical pitch of 1.5, scan at 250 mA, 0.5 seconds per rotation, and 140 kv is determined
as follows:
14.34 mGy Body center dose at typical technique from CTDI100 table
Scan Mode adjustment factor from cardiac segment scan mode
x 2.67
adjustment table
x 1.29 Aperture adjustment factor for 1.25mm for large spot
x 0.48 250 mAs (250 * 0.5 / 260) factor from CTDI table
=34.14 mGy
12-26 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Table 12-8 TABLE of CTDI100 Special Case Factors
TABLE of CTDI100 Special Case Factors:

= (slice width) x (number of images per rotation)/(table
increment per rotation)
= (total exposure time/scan time per rotation) if table
axial increment factor increment is 0 (i.e axial, cine or fluoro)
This factor adjusts for non contiguous axial exposures. The
dose computation increases with overlapped exposures
and decreases with expo sure gaps.
= sum of individual cluster lengths/(x-ray on off distance)
where x-ray on off distance is the distance from the X-ray
on location of the first cluster to the X ray off location of the
clustered helical scan factor
last cluster.
sum of individual cluster length is (no of scans in cluster) x
(table speed) x (individual helical exposure time)
This is a confusing factor but it is required since the data collection length for a single helical
scan is longer then the total reconstructed image region. Hence multiple helical scans
contain overlapped exposure regions which increases the average CTDIvol per group. These
overlaps can be minimized by avoiding short duration helical scans whenever possible. That
is, it is better to perform a single long helical instead of a set of contiguous clustered helicals
if patient breath holding permits.
Other Dosimetry Information
DLP
The dose length product (DLP) for the CTDIw can also be automatically computed by the
system if desired and displayed on the Scan Rx menu. The DLP is given in mGyCm (milliGray
Centimeters). The DLP is computed and displayed for each group prior to the scan as well
as an accumulated DLP for all scans taken up to the current time during the exam. The final
exam accumulated DLP provides a convenient measure for maintaining patient or
procedure dose management statistics.
The DLP is computed given the CTDIw described above as follows:
axial scans:
DLP = CTDIw x (Number of images) x (Image thickness in cm)/(axial increment factor)
cine, fluoro, or 0 table increment axial scans:
DLP = CTDIw x (Image thickness in cm)
Helical scans:
DLP = CTDIw x (Exposure time) x (Table Speed)/ (clustered helical scan factor)
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-27

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Cardiac Helical Scans:

DLP = CTDIw x (Exposure time) x (Table speed)
= CDTIw x (Exposure time) x (Slice_Thickness x
pitch_factor / gantry_ period)
Dose Efficiency
The Dose efficiency is also automatically computed and displayed on the Scan Rx Menu.
The dose efficiency is a measure of how much of the Z-axis X-ray beam is used by the
system. Reference IEC 60601-2-44.
Scout Dose
The dose due to a scout is not reported since there are currently no standards to follow.
Generally, the scout dose will be a very small part of the total patient exam dose and
therefore would not have a practical significance.
Phantoms for Performance Testing

The results of this section conform to federal regulation 21CFR 1020.33 (c).
GE used the phantoms and procedures recommended in the CDRH final draft of “Routine
Compliance Testing for Computed Tomography X-Ray Systems” (dated April 26, 1984) to
measure dose and dose profile, and calculate CTDI.
GE used a 21.5cm water filled acrylic phantom to measure all Head performance tests.
Testers placed a 30cm wide acrylic ring around the water phantom to measure Body
performance.
Noise
Statistically measure the CT numbers represented by an array of pixels contained in a 2 x
2cm central region of interest (ROI)
Noise equals the standard deviation expressed in Hounsfield units, divided by 1000 to
represent the contrast scale between air and water, then multiplied by 100 to give a value in
percent.
12-28 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Noise
1020.33 (C) (3) i
The Standard Deviation In the Center scanned with Typical Technique and Standard 512
Recon at 5mm, 4i mode.
Head Body
0.5% 1.3% 260 mAs 120 kVp
GE used the Small Body SFOV, rather than the Head SFOV.
Head: Use 25cm FOV
Body: Use 35cm FOV
Both SFOVs use similar resolution algorithms except the Small Body SFOV does not use the
bone/brain interface correction, which the phantom does not need.
The Small Body and Head SFOV produce negligible image performance differences.
Nominal Slice Thickness

1020.33 (C) (3) iii
Table 12-9 Nominal Slice Thickness
Head Body
5.0mm, 4i mode 5.0mm, 4i mode
.625mm, 2i mode .625mm, 2i mode
Sensitivity Profile
1020.33 (C) (3) iv
The sensitivity profile is a graph of the slice thickness. To recreate the original graphs, scan a
0.5mm tungsten wire in air that makes a 26.6° angle with scan plane. The wire is centered at
ISO center.
Refer to profile graphs in Figure 12-17 and Figure 12-18.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-29

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 12-17 Profile Curve

5.0mm, 4i mode & 2.5mm, 8i mode
Head
1.0
Relative Dose 0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Distance from Scan Center (mm)
Slice Sensitivity
Dose
2.5mm, 4i mode & 1.25mm, 8i mode
Head
1.0
0.8
Relative Dose
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Slice Sensitivity
Dose
1.25 mm, 4i mode
Head
1.0
0.8
Relative Dose
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Slice Sensitivity
Dose
12-30 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
1.25 mm, 1i mode

Head
1.0
Relative Dose 0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Dose
Slice Sensitivity
0.63 mm, 2i mode
Thin Head
1.0
0.8
Relative Dose
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Slice Sensitivity
Dose
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-31

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 12-18 Profile Curve

5.0 mm, 4i mode & 2.5mm, 8i mode
Body
1.0
0.8
Relative Dose
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Distance from Scan Center (mm) Slice Sensitivity
Dose
2.5 mm, 4i mode & 2.5mm, 8i mode
Body
1.0
0.8
Relative Dose
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Distance from Scan Center (mm) Slice Sensitivity
Dose
1.25 mm, 4i Mode
Body
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Dose
Slice Sensitivity
12-32 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
1.25 mm, 1i mode

Body
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Dose
Slice Sensitivity
0.63 2i Mode
Body
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
–60 –50 –40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Dose
Slice Sensitivity
Modulation Transfer Function (MTF)

1020.33 (C) ii same conditions as Noise
An MTF of 100% or 1.0 indicates no signal loss.
An MTF of 0.0 indicates total signal loss.
In practice, small, high contrast objects become impossible to resolve when MTF reaches the
0.05 – 0.02 range.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-33

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 12-19 MTF Curve

head and body
1.0
0.8
0.6
mtf
0.4
0.2
0.0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
lp/cm
Maximum Deviation
In order to come up with “the maximum deviation,” manufacturers must imagine every
possible situation, however unlikely, that might occur within the entire user community.
Our statements of deviation include a maximum deviation to assure compliance with the
regulation, as well as a statement of expected deviations (2s) in the large majority of our
systems.
GE bases the expected deviations on the results of extensive multiple system testing.
Typical Dose 1020.33 (C) (2) i, ii and iii

Expected deviation equals +/-15%, except for the10 mA and 1.0mm techniques where
variation may be greater (up to a factor of two) due to the inherent deviation in small values.
Maximum deviation anticipated for tube output equals +/- 40%.
Dose Profile 1020.33 (C) (2) iv

The maximum deviation relating to dose profiles (FWHM or Full Width at Half Maximum)
should equal +/-30% or 1.5mm, whichever is larger.
This value includes variability inherent in the measurement of dose profile with TLD
(thermoluminescence dosimeter) chips.
The expected deviation equals +/-10% or 0.5mm, whichever is larger.
12-34 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Performance 1020.33 (C) (3)

Noise
The noise squared (s2) in a CT image is inversely proportional to the X-Ray dose.
The maximum deviation equals +/-15%.
Expected deviation equals +/-10%.
MTF
With the protocol used to generate the data reported here, expected deviations for values
on the MTF curve: +/-10%.
Maximum deviations may reach +/-20%.
Sensitivity Profile
With the protocol used to generate the data reported here, the slice sensitivity profiles
(FWHM) may vary +/-10% or 0.5mm whichever is larger.
Helical Scans: The slice sensitivity profile is triangular, and the FwHm may deviate by 20%,
or 1mm, whichever is greater.
With other methods, the maximum deviation may reach 1.5mm for all thicknesses; thin
slices are most affected by these measurement errors.
Radiation Protection
A qualified radiological health physicist should review scan room shielding requirements.
Consider equipment placement, weekly projected workloads, and materials used for
construction of walls, floors, ceiling, doors and windows.
The following illustrations depict measurable radiation levels within the scan room while
scanning a 32cm CTDI body phantom (body) and a 20cm water phantom (head).
Values, in millirems per scan, apply to both 60 and 50 hertz scanners.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-35

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 12-20 Typical Scatter Survey (Body Filter)

BODY SCATTER PHANTOM
ISO-CONTOUR LEVELS: 0.075, 0.15, 0.3, AND 0.6 mR/SCAN
Technique:
140 kV
100mA
1 Sec
4 x 5.00mm
0.075 0.15 0.3 0.6 0.6 0.3 0.15 0.075
50 Inches
0 127 cm
BODY SCATTER PHANTOM

0.075,
ISO-CONTOUR LEVELS: 0.1, 0.20.15, 0.3, AND
0.4 AND 0.6 mR/SCAN
0.8 mR/SCAN
Technique:
140 kV
100mA
1 Sec
4 x 5.00mm
0.075 0.15 0.3 0.6 0.6 0.3 0.15 0.075
50 Inches
0 127 cm
12-36 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

QUALITY ASSURANCE
Figure 12-21 Typical Scatter Survey (Head Filter)

HEAD PHANTOM
Technique:
140 kV
100mA
1 Sec
4 x 5.00mm
0.0375 0.075 0.15 0.3 0.3 0.15 0.075 0.0375
50 Inches
0 127 cm
HEAD PHANTOM
Technique:
140 kV
100mA
1 Sec
4 x 5.00mm
0.0375 0.075 0.15 0.3 0.3 0.15 0.075 0.0375
50 Inches
0 127 cm
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 12-37

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Figure 12-22 .QA Master Data Form
QA Data Form date:

Contrast Scale Mean CT Std. Dev. High Contrast Bar Size Std. Dev.
# Spatial Resolution
plastic 1.6
spec 37+/–4
1.3
water 1.0
difference 0.8
120+/–12
Slice Thickness # of Visible Lines Alignment Light

centered Y/N
Accuracy
INT axial
EXT axial
5.0 3.75
90/270 laser
W/L 100/50 W/L 100/+25
2.5 1.25
0 laser
W/L 100/–25 W/L 100/–100

Low Contrast Top Bottom Noise and Uniformity
detectability CT # CT # spec: measurement:
membrane Mean CT #
0 +/– 3
(Ctr. ROI)
water Std. Dev.
3.2+/– 0.3
(Ctr. ROI)
difference
Uniformity
0 +/– 3
(Ctr. Mean-
smallest hole Edge Mean)
W/L used (30/0)
12-38 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Performix Ultra X-Ray Tube Specif ications
Chapter 13
Performix Ultra X-Ray Tube

Specifications
Table 13-1 Tube Model And Catalog Numbers
Model
Component Catalog No.
Number
Performix Pro Tube Unit 2137130-4 D3182T
Performix Pro Insert 2137130-2 N/A
Environmental Specifications
Non-Operating Environment
Maintain a temperature range between -34°C and 60°C (relative humidity up to 95%
non-condensing) during storage and shipment of the tube unit.
Use GE Medical Systems transport packaging during shipment.
You may ship via commercial airlines.
Operating Environment
Maintain an ambient temperature of less than 35°C and 30 to 60% (non-condensing)
relative humidity (50% nominal) during operation
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-1

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Diagnostic Source Assembly
Leakage Technique Factors

The leakage technique factors for the Performix Pro Tube Unit, Model No. 2219500, with
Tube Collimator, Model No. 2020100.
• 140 kV
• 25.7 mA
Quality Equivalent Filtration

Performix Ultra Tube Unit
The aluminum equivalent filtration of the CT system with Performix Pro tube consists of the
tube filtration plus fixed filtration in the collimator. All filtration is permanent and cannot be
removed by the user.
The “Quality Equivalent Filtration” of the CT system with Performix Pro x-ray tube is 6.5mm
of aluminum. This is measured at 70 kV and in accordance with CE (IEC601-1-3:29.201)
safety and regulatory requirement.
CT Scan Ratings
These ratings apply to a system with computer controlled technique selection, scan mode,
and scan duration.
The system uses a math model to track tube temperature.
This tube cooling algorithm delays the start of a scan, if necessary, to avoid exceeding
temperatures that may damage the tube anode or unit.
There are two filters used in this system: one for head applications, and one for body
applications. When the body filter is selected, the “Quality Equivalent Filtration” increases to
5.65mm of aluminum.
Table 13-2 Performix Target Load in Kilowatts for Selected Scan Technique
mA 80 kV 100 kV 120 kV 140 kV

40 3.2 4.0 4.8 5.6
70 5.6 7.0 8.4 9.8
100 8.0 10.0 12.0 14.0
120 9.6 12.0 14.4 16.8
140 11.2 14.0 16.8 19.6
170 13.6 17.0 20.4 23.8
13-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

mA 80 kV 100 kV 120 kV 140 kV

200 16.0 20.0 24.0 28.0
210 16.8 21.0 25.2 29.4
230 18.4 23.0 27.6 32.2
240 19.2 24.0 28.8 33.6
280 22.4 28.0 33.6 39.2
290 23.2 29.0 34.8 40.6
340 27.2 34.0 40.8 47.6
350 28.0 35.0 42.0 49.0
360 28.8 36.0 43.2 50.4
380 30.4 38.0 45.6 53.2
400 32.0 40.0 48.0 na
420 na 42.0 50.4 na
440 na na 52.8 na
NOTE: At 5mm slice, max mA for 140KV:

300mA SFOV Small
320mA SFOV Large
Performix Ultra Tube Assembly
Marking
The assembly carries two identification labels that list the model and serial numbers of the
tube insert and housing components, which comprise the tube assembly.
A third label certifies compliance with U.S.A. Federal regulation 21 CFR Sub chapter J, and
lists the date and place of assembly manufacture.
Reference Axis
Normal to the window center
Maximum Potential Difference

140 kVp
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-3

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Principle Dimensions (with mounting bracket)

• Width 50.6 cm
• Height 82.4 cm
• Depth 32.5 cm
Weight (without mounting bracket)

• 84 kg
Performix Ultra Tube Insert
Target Material
Tungsten - Rhenium focal track on a molybdenum alloy substrate backed by graphite
Maximum Potential Difference

140 kVp
Dual Focal Spots:

Small Focal Spot:
0.9mm (W) x 0.7mm (L) (Traditional Methodology)
0.7 (W) x 0.6 (L) Nominal Focal Spot Value (IEC 336/93)
Large Focal Spot:

1.2mm (W) x 1.2mm (L) (Traditional Methodology)
0.9 (W) x 0.9 (L) Nominal Focal Spot Value (IEC 336/93)
Target Angle
7 degrees
Rotor Speed
8000 RPM
Anode Heat Capacity

6.3 MHU / 4700 kJ
13-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Figure 13-1 Performix Pro Anode Cooling Curve

4700
STORED ENERGY (KJ)

4230
3760
3290
2820
2350
1880
1410
940
470
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
TIME (MINUTES)
Note: Cooling curves reflect maximum tube performance. System software
ultimately limits tube operation.
NOTE: Cooling curves reflect maximum tube performance. System software ultimately
limits tube operation.
Serial Exposure Rating

Controlled by system software
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-5

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 13-2 Maximum Anode Input Power For Single Exposure Radiographic Ratings
60.00
50.00
kVp X mA per exposure (in thousands)
40.00
Lg – Spot
30.00 Sm –Spot
20.00
10.00
0.00
0.1 1 10 100
Maximum Exposure Time – Sec.
Note: Based on initial maximum storage of 1200 kJ.
NOTE: Based on initial maximum storage of 1200 kJ
13-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Figure 13-3 Large Spot Single Exposure Technic Limits
450
350
250
mA
150
50
80 kV
100 kV
0 120 kV
0 10 20 140 kV
30 40
50 60 70 80 90 100
Time – Sec. 110 120
Based on initial maximum storage of 383 kJ
Note: Large Focal Spot used for exposures over 24kW.
NOTE: Large Focal Spot used for exposures over 24kW.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-7

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Figure 13-4 Small Spot Single Exposure Technic Limits
300
250
200
mA
150
100
50
80 kV
0 100 kV
0 10 20 120 kV
30 40
50 60 140 kV
70 80
90 100
Time – Sec. 110 120
Note: Based on initial maximum storage of 383 kJ
Performix Ultra Tube Assembly

Figure 13-5 Performix Tube Housing Cooling Curve Maximum Ambient Temperature = 35°c
Performix
Tube Housing Cooling Curve
4500
4000
Stored Energy (kJ)
3500
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Time (minutes)
Note: Cooling curves reflect maximum tube performance. System software
ultimately limits tube operation.
NOTE: Cooling curves reflect maximum tube performance. System software ultimately
limits tube operation.
13-8 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Maximum Heat Capacity

• Housing 5.5 MHU / 4100 kJ
• Insert 6.3 MHU / kJ 4700
Maximum Tube Assembly Heat Dissipation

3.7 kW
Focal Spot Modulation Transfer Function

• 1.2mm (W) x 1.2mm (L) and 0.9mm (W) x 0.7mm (L)
(Traditional Methodology)
Figure 13-6 Modulation Transfer Function
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-9

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Focal Spot Modulation Transfer Function

Figure 13-7 Modulation Transfer Function 1.2mm (W) x 1.2mm (L)
MODULATION TRANSFER FUNCTION
WIDTH DIRECTION
1.2 mm W x 1.2 mm L FOCAL SPOT
1.0 STANDARD MAGNIFICATION 1.3
0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
0 .1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7 .8
SPATIAL FREQUENCY – LINE PAIRS/mm

1.0
0.9 LENGTH DIRECTION
1.2 mm W x 1.2 mm L FOCAL SPOT
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
0 .2 .4 .6 .8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.0
13-10 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Figure 13-8 Modulation Transfer Function 0.9mm (W) x 0.7mm (L)

1.0
0.9
0.8 MODULATION TRANSFER FUNCTION
WIDTH DIRECTION
0.7 0.9 mm W x 0.7 mm L FOCAL SPOT
STANDARD MAGNIFICATION 1.3
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
0 .2 .4 .6 .8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.0

1.0
0.9 MODULATION TRANSFER FUNCTION
LENGTH DIRECTION
0.8 0.9 mm W x 0.7 mm L FOCAL SPOT
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
0 .2 .4 .6 .8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.0
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 13-11

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
13-12 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Chapter 14
Table 14-1 Model Numbers
FDA
Component Model Number Rating Plate Locations
(Y/N)
(Scanner ID) Lower, left Gantry base in
Gantry Y
2281177 Gantry w/MDAS rear
2266832-3 Console w/MDAS Y
CT Operator 2341104 GOC1 Console Y
Rear of cabinet
Computer Console 2350046 GOC2 Console Y
2377708 GOC3 Console Y
Table Right side, low on front leg Y
Metal free Cradle & Bottom angled surface,
2115993 N
Cradle Extender front end
Performix Tube Unit 2137130-4
Tube Insert 2120785-2 On Housing center N
Tube Housing 2137130-2 Y
Tube at 12 o’clock: on
Collimator 2214768-2 Collimation Y
collimator front
Power Distribution Back horizontal surface of
2269902 N
Unit top cover
QA phantom/20 cm
2144715 none N
water
48 cm poly phantom 2144721-2 none N
35 cm poly phantom 2144721 none N
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-1

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Table 14-2 SYSTEM DIMENSIONS
Size (inches) Size (cm) Weight Weight

Component
whd whd (lbs) (kg)
Gantry 87.6 74.1 39.6 223 188.1 100.1 2800 1273
Octane 48.5 29-32.5 41 123 71.1-81.3 104.1 664 301
49
123.8
26.75-34.75 Keyboard
68-88.3 Keyboard
table,
GOC1 table, 370 167.8
26.75-31.75 Monitor
68-80.7 Monitor table
table
Computer 102-122.8
40-48
Console
49
123.8
68-88.3 Keyboard
table,
GOC2 table, 360 163
26.75-31.75 Monitor
table
102-122.8
40-48
49
123.8
68-88.3 Keyboard
table,
GOC3 table, 395 180
26.75-31.75 Monitor
table
102-122.8
40-48
Table & Cradle 24 44 199 61 112 505 750 340
Power Distribution Unit 30 50 23 762 1270 585 900 408
Total Weight with Computer Console Octane 6483 2940
Total Weight with Computer Console GOC1 6189 2807
Helical Low-Contrast Detectability — Statistical

On 8 inch (20cm) CATPHAN phantom: 5mm @ 0.30% at 13.3 mGy (1.33 Rad).
Suggested Scan Technique:
120 kVp, 80 mAs, 0.5 to 1.0 second gantry rotation, 0.75:1 acquisition mode with 10mm
nominal image thickness, 15mm table travel/rotation, 25cm scan FOV, 25cm display FOV,
512 recon, and standard algorithm.
14-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)


Test method is as follows:
1. Measure mean CT # values of an array of pixel groups who's area (pixel group) equals
the size of the detectable object size.
2. Calculate the standard deviation for the means of the pixel groups.
3. Statistically calculate the % contrasted change needed to insure with 95% confidence
that an object with this contrast could be detected with the above background noise,
and 95% confidence that it's not detected when not present.
Measurement Basis: Dose is measured on top surface of the phantom using a pencil probe
with a 10cm chamber length, with the phantom and probe held stationary, and with scan
time equal to time needed to acquire 30 images in helical mode. Dose is average dose per
image for 30 contiguous images (+/- 15% expected deviation).
Axial Low-Contrast Detectability — Statistical

On 8 inch (20cm) CATPHAN phantom: 5mm @ 0.30% mGy (1.33 Rad).
120 kVp, 100 mAs, 0.5 tp 1.0 second gantry rotation, 0.75:1 acquisition mode with 10mm
Test method is as follows:
1. Measure mean CT# values of an array of pixel groups who's area (pixel group) equals the
size of the detectable object size.
2. Calculate the standard deviation for the means of the pixel groups.
3. Statistically calculate the % contrasted change needed to insure with 95% confidence
that an object with this contrast could be detected with the above background noise,
and 95% confidence that it's not detected when not present.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-3

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Measurement Basis: Dose is measured on top surface of the phantom using a pencil probe
with a 10cm chamber length, with the phantom and probe held stationary. (+/- 15%
expected deviation).
Helical Image Noise:

0.32% +/-0.03% at 28.5 mGy (2.85 Rad)
Measurement Basis: Noise is demonstrated on 8.5 in AAPM water phantom or GE Quality
Assurance phantom. Dose is measured on top surface of the phantom using a pencil probe
with a 10cm chamber length, with the phantom and probe held stationary, and with scan
time equal to time needed to acquire 30 images in helical mode. Dose is average dose per
image for 30 contiguous images (+/- 15% expected deviation).
Axial Image Noise:

0.32% +/-0.03% at 29.3 mGy (2.93 Rad)
120 kVp, 260 mAs, 0.6 to 4.0 second gantry rotation, 10mm nominal image thickness, 2i
mode reconstruction, 25cm scan FOV, 25cm display FOV, 512 recon, and standard
algorithm. Dose is dose per image.
Measurement Basis: Noise is demonstrated on 8.5 in AAPM water phantom or GE Quality
Assurance phantom. Dose is measured on top surface of the phantom using a pencil probe
with a 10cm chamber length (+/- 15% expected deviation).
Dose Performance
Helical Dose
CTDI expressed in mGy (Rad): CTDI expressed in mGy/100 mAs:

32.6 mGY (3.26 Rad) center 17.2 mGy/100 mAs center
Head Head
35.7 mGy (3.57 Rad) surface 18.8 mGy/100 mAs surface
9.2 mGy (0.92 Rad) center 4.9 mGy/100 mAs center
Body Body
Head Head
42.7 mGy (4.327 Rad) surface 22.5 mGy/100 mAs center
14-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)


CTDI100 expressed in mGy (Rad); CTDI100 expressed in mGy/100 mAs:
Body Body
CTDIw expressed in mGy (Rad): CTDIw expressed in mGy/100 mAs:
Head 42.4 mGy (4.35 Rad) Head 22.3 mGy/100 mAs
Body 21.5 mGy (2.18 Rad) Body 11.3 mGy/100 mAs
Scan Technique:
120kVp, 190 mAs, 0.5 to 2.0 second gantry rotation, 0.75:1 acquisition mode with 10mm
nominal image thickness, 15mm table travel/rotation, 512 recon, and standard algorithm.
Measurement Basis: Helical CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw dose calculated from measured axial
CTDI, CTDI100, and CTDIw data and adjusted for 0.75:1 scan mode and 190 mAs. Dose is
average dose per image for 30 contiguous images (+/- 15% expected deviation).
Axial Dose

36.5 mGY (3.65 Rad) center 14.0 mGy/100 mAs center
Head Head
Body Body
CTDI100 expressed in mGy (Rad); CTDI100 expressed in mGy/100 mAs:
Head Head
47.7 mGy (4.77 Rad) surface 18.3 mGy/100 mAs center
Body Body
CTDIw expressed in mGy (Rad): CTDIw expressed in mGy/100 mAs:
Head 47.4 mGy (4.75 Rad) Head 18.2 mGy/100 mAs
Body 24.3 mGy (2.43 Rad) Body 9.4 mGy/100 mAs
Scan Technique:
120kVp, 260 mAs, 0.5 to 4.0 second gantry rotation, 10mm nominal image thickness, 2i
mode reconstruction, Small Body scan FOV and 25cm display FOV for Head CTDI, Large
Body scan FOV and 50cm display FOV for Body CTDI, 512 recon, and standard algorithm.
Dose is dose per image
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-5

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Subsystem Specifications
Operator Console
• Size: 48 in (1220mm) wide x 33.5 in (851mm) deep x 49.5 in (1260mm) high
• Front and back work surfaces can be set during installation within a range of vertical
heights that help accommodate a variety of siting requirements.
– or –
Operator Console GOC1

• Size: 49 in (1238mm) wide x 40–48 in (1022–1228mm) deep x 29–32.5 in (711–813mm)
high
Host Computer
• Silicon Graphics, Inc. Octane Workstation
• MIPS R12000 CPU
• 64-bit microprocessor
• RISC architecture
• 9.3 SPECint95 OR 13.6 SPECint
• 17.0 SPECfp95 OR 20.3 SPECfp
• 512 MB SDRAM Standard
• Memory option to support 1.5 GB of SDRAM
– or –
• Silicon Graphics, Inc. Octane 2 Workstation
• 1-2 MIPS CPU with 2 MB cache.
• 64-bit microprocessor. Single/Dual R12000A processor with Direct 3D option.
• RISC architecture
• 34.6/40.3 SPECfp95 (1P/2P)
• 22.9 SPECint95 (1P)
• 295 SPECfp2000
• 311 SPECint2000
• 512 MB ECC SDRAM standard. 1.5GB total with the Direct3D option.
PC Based System
• HP XW8000 Technical/Graphics Workstation
• Dual SMP 2.66 GHZ Intel Xeon Processors with 512KB L2 cache
• Intel Hyper-Threading Technology (4 logical processors)
14-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

• 2GB DDR266 ECC Dual Channel Memory Standard (4.2 GB/sec)

• SPECfp2000 >900
• SPECint2000 >900
Image Processor
• Silicon Graphics, Inc. Octane SI or Enhanced SI IMPACT Graphics Engine.
– or –
• Silicon Graphics, Inc. VPRO V12-DCD Graphics Engine with 128 MB SDRAM
• 104 MB TRAM (Texture Memory)
• 448 Million trilinear textured interpolations per second
or
• Nvidia Quadro4 980XGL AGP 8X graphics with 128MB Memory
• Graphics Processor Unit (GPU) Clock 300Mhz
• Graphics Memory Clock 325Mhz
• Dual 350Mhz Video RAMDAC's
Image Reconstruction Engine (Pegasus)

• Custom-designed special purpose CT Image Generator
• Pipelined parallel processing allows 12 views to be back-projected simultaneously
• GE-patented IG ASICS provides 7.5 GFLOPS for back projection and IBO acceleration
• 32-bit floating point data format
• IG DSP's rated at 1900 MFLOPS
Image Reconstruction Engine (Global Recon Engine)

• Custom-designed, scalable, special purpose CT Image Generator
• Pipelined parallel processing allows 12 views to be
back-projected simultaneously
• Image Generator consisting of:
– Dual SMP 2.8 GHz Intel Xeon Processors with 512 KB L2 Cache
– Intel Hyper-threading Technology (4 Logical Processors)
– 2 GB DDR 266 ECC Dual Channel Memory Standard (4.2 GB/s)
• 32-bit floating point data format
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-7

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
The LightSpeed 3.X Operator Console user interface features:

• Two, large 20 inch or 21 inch monitors
– Scan/recon monitor mainly for scan and recon control with no image display
– Image monitor mainly for image display, analysis, processing, and management
– Each monitor provides a 1280 x 1024 high resolution, flicker-free display
• Scan control keyboard assembly with intercom speaker, mic and volume controls
• Three button mouse with mouse pad
• BrightBox (trackball assembly)
• Two wide work surfaces
8-Row Detector
• 8 rows x 888 active patient elements; 15 reference elements
• 70% geometric efficiency
• 99% absorption efficiency
8-Row DAS
• 8 rows x 758 active patient channels; 3 reference
• 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6, 0.5 second scan
• 984 – 1408 views per second
Table
Load Capacity
• 180 kg (400 lbs) with +/- 0.25mm positional accuracy guaranteed
• 205 kg (450 lbs) maximum allowed with normal operation and +/- 1mm positional
accuracy
Maximum Cradle Travel
• 1703mm
• Table Height, Gantry Tilt and scanning software determine the Scannable range
Cradle Speeds
• 100mm/sec (scout imaging)
• 1.25 – 33.5mm/gantry rotation (helical imaging)
Scan Location Accuracy
+/- 0.25mm
14-8 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Elevation Travel Time

FAST < 30 seconds
Full Range
SLOW < 120 seconds
Elevation Accuracy
+/- 1.5mm
Elevation Range
516mm to 991mm above the floor
Gantry
Tilt Limits
+30° to -30°
Tilt Speed
60°/min nominal
Gantry Opening Diameter
700mm
Isocenter to Tube Distance
541mm
Tube Focus to Detector Distance
949mm
Rotational Speeds
360° in 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, and 4 seconds
Rotational Freedom
∞ (infinite) continuous rotate
X-Ray Tube
Performix
Heat Storage
• Anode: 6.3 MHU / 4700 kJ
• Housing: 5.5 MHU / 4100 kJ
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-9

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Focal Spots
Dual Focal Spots
Small Focal Spot

• 0.9mm (W) x 0.7mm (L) (Traditional Methodology)
• 0.7mm (W) x 0.6mm (L) Nominal Focal Spot Value
(IEC 336/93)
Large Focal Spot
• 1.2mm (W) x 1.2mm (L) (Traditional Methodology)
• 0.9mm (W) x 0.9mm (L) Nominal Focal Spot Value
(IEC 336/93)
Anode
• Target angle: 7 degrees
• Up to 53.2 kW maximum radiographic load
Laser Alignment Lights
Maximum Output Power

< 1.0 mW/laser beam
Power Supply
5 volt
Maintenance
• Laser alignment lights do not require user maintenance.
• Qualified service personnel must inspect the lights quarterly to assure proper
alignment.
Generator Subsystem Specifications
Main Power Supply

Line Voltage
• Nominal: Taps selections of 380 to 480 V in 20 V Steps
• Daily Variation: Nominal +/- 8%
14-10 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

3-Phase 50/60 Hz +/- 0.5 Hz

• Phase-to-phase balance within 2% of lowest phase-to-phase voltage.
• Line regulation 6% or less at 90 kVA, 85% P.F.
Maximum 3-Phase Power Demand at Full Rated Output

90 kVA
Maximum Line Current Demand
108A @ 480 V
Maximum line current demand defined at 140 kV and 380 mA.
Generator Rating and Duty Cycle

The gantry contains a high frequency generator and on board computer control
Maximum Power
53.2 kW power
kV Choices
80, 100 120, 140 kV
Maximum mA
440
Regulation
Recovery within 2 kV for 10% line variation in 50 msec
Rise Time
< 2 msec, to attain 75% of selected value
Fall Time
< 10 msec to fall below 75% of selected value
Generator Duty Cycle

The generator duty cycle is determined by the tube protection algorithm based on tube
type used.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-11

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
kV, mA, and Time Accuracy
Kilovolts
kV Selections
80, 100, 120, and 140 kV
Basic kVp Accuracy

+ 3% +/- (3% + 2kV)
Excludes first 10 msec of exposure
kVp During First 10 ms

Basic accuracy (see above) +/- 5 kV
Milliamperes
mA Selections
10 to 440 mA, by 10 mA increments
• Patient scanning subject to Scan limitations or 53.2 maximum
mA Accuracy
Patient scanning selections of 10 – 440 mA
Calibration scan selections of 10 – 30 mA +/- 4mA
Exposure Time
Normal Axial Scan Selections
0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, or 4 sec
Cine
0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, or 4 sec
Scout
• Scan range 20 – 1600mm at 100mm/sec
• Exposure time: 0.20 – 16.0 sec (exposure time increases proportionally with scan
distance selection)
Helical (Continuous scans)

Up to 120 seconds for a single continuous exposure.
14-12 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Accuracy
1.8 – 60.0 second exposures: +/- 5% + 10 ms
Measuring Tool Variance

kV
The above stated accuracies are subject to additional variation due to calibration and
measurement instruments.
kV: +/- 5%
mA
mA: +/- 5%
Exposure Time
Time: +/- 3%
Accuracy Subject to Following Conditions

Line Voltages
• Line voltage in specified range for nominal system voltages of 380 – 480.
• Line to line voltages balanced within 2%.
Line Regulation
6% or less.
Transient Voltage Variations Caused by External Loads Must Not:
• Exceed 5%
• Exceed 5 cycles duration
• Occur more than 10 times per hour
To comply with the requirements of 21 CFR 1020.30, accuracies are stated in terms of
maximum theoretical deviation from selectable operating parameters for all technique
factor combinations.
For radiation output, the coefficient of variation is less than 0.05 for successive exposures
with constant technique factors.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-13

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Measurement Basis
Kilovolts
Precision 10,000:1 voltage dividers built into system reduce generated anode and cathode
voltages.
Resulting low voltage signals provide continuous closed-loop control of the average kV.
Signals are noise filtered and periodically monitored by the computer system.
Operator console displays monitored values during calibration.
Precision 1000:1 voltage divider, model 46-154966G1, (Catalog #C1515A) provides external
feedback during calibration.
• Calibrate Anode and Cathode signals separately.
• Use a calibrated dual channel oscilloscope with a divider for reference.
• Check calibration of the low voltage kV measuring circuits.
• Average kV values measured by the system are slightly lower than the peak kV during
exposure, due to high frequency ripple in the HV power supplies.
• The difference amplitude, a function of kV and exposure current, always falls within the
stated kVp accuracy.
Milliamperes
Precision shunt resistors, built into the system, measure the tube current component
returned from the secondaries of the high-voltage transformers.
• The resulting signals provide continuous closed-loop control of the average mA.
• Signals are noise filtered and periodically monitored by the computer system
• Operator console displays the monitored values during calibration.
Check calibration of the shunt resistors and the low voltage mA measuring circuits with a
calibrated digital millimeter.
Calibrate Anode and Cathode signals separately.
Exposure Time
Traditional Exposure time interval: Duration of time High voltage remains at or above 75% of
selected value.
LightSpeed 3.X Exposure time interval: Duration of the Expose Command signal within the
Stationary Controller, minus the HV rise time, plus its fall time with respect to the Expose
Command signal.
14-14 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

LightSpeed 3.X HV components reside on the gantry rotating base.

During stationary scans, use an oscilloscope to measure the HV rise and fall times, with
respect to the Expose Command signal.
Use the oscilloscope to measure the Expose Command signal during stationary scans, to
verify internal time measurements.
Use the internal timer to monitor time during axial/helical scans.
Environmental Specifications
Ratings and duty cycles of all subsystems apply if the site environment complies with the
following.
The specified environment must be constantly maintained, weekends, holidays, and
throughout the night.
Shutdown the CT system whenever the air conditioning fails.
Optional: Turn air conditioner OFF during CT shutdown for repair.
System Cooling Requirements

The cooling requirements do not include cooling for the room lighting, personnel, or non-CT
equipment present. Cooling requirements are listed by subsystem to allow planning for
each room of the CT suite.
Cooling requirements are given for minimum, recommended, and growth allowance
scenarios.
• The minimum cooling figures assume patient throughput of 3 patients per hour and 75
scan rotations per patient.
• The recommended cooling requirements assume patient throughput limited by the tube
cooling algorithm.
• The suite cooling can be sized for future developments by using the growth allowance
figures. This cooling will accommodate more patients per hour and/or potential future
system enhancements.
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-15

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Minimum Allowance
Subsystem
(Watts / BTU/Hr)
Gantry 5440 / 18600**
Table 330 / 11300
PDU 1000 / 3400
Operator Console 1320 / 4500
Xtream Operator Console 2165/7338
Optional Laser Camera 800 / 2730
Recommended cooling values should not be used for calculating
system input power requirements.
**Recommended Allowance: 7150/24400
Growth Allowance: 9200/31400
Temperature and Humidity Specifications

Ambient Temperature
Scan Room
70° – 75°F (21° – 26°C) for patient comfort
Control Room (including Console/Computer)
60° – 75°F (15° – 26°C).
Table and Gantry In Exam Room (when room is unoccupied)
60° – 75°F (15° – 26°C)
Equipment Room (if separate room to hold PDU)
60° – 84°F (15° – 29°C)
Rate of Change
5°F/Hr Max (3°C)
Room Temperature Uniformity
5°F Max Gradient (3°C)
Media (disks/tapes)
Keep long term storage media in the same temperature range as the computer, 60° – 75°F
(15° – 26°C).
Relative Humidity (All Areas)
• 30% – 60% (non-condensing) during operation, all areas.
• Rate of Change 5% RH/Hr Max
14-16 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

NOTE: Use a temperature and humidity recorder to monitor the designated system area
during pre-installation and installation, to verify true temperature and humidity
conditions.
Electromagnetic Interference
Consult GE Medical Systems for recommendations when the peak 60 Hz/50 Hz field within
the gantry region exceeds 0.01 gauss peak.
Consider the following when trying to reduce suspected Electromagnetic Interference (EMI):
• The external field strength from a source of magnetic field decreases rapidly with the
distance from the source.
• A bank of three single phase transformers generates a smaller magnetic field (less
external leakage) than a three-phase transformer with an equivalent power rating.
• Large electric motors generate substantial EMI.
• Steel reinforcing in the building structure can act as an effective conductor of EMI.
• High powered radio signals can affect computers.
• No substitute exists for proper screening of cables and cabinets.
Pollution
Individual components contain filters to optimize environmental conditions.
• Keep air pollution to a minimum.
• Keep the CT suite clean at all times.
• Do not have dust and fume generating work near the system.
• Keep component filters clean and free from obstructions.
Carpeting
• Install anti-static carpeting –or– treat existing carpets with an anti-static solution.
• Static discharges affect operation and may cause system failures.
Do NOT use steel wool to clean tile floors in scan suite. Fine metal fibers can enter
enclosures and cause internal shorts.
Lighting
Patient Comfort
Use a variable indirect light source between 20 – 100 foot candles in the scan room
Control Room
Select and position subdued light to reduce monitor reflections, and prevent operator eye
strain
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 14-17

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Equipment Room
Provide a bright light source for use during maintenance.
Altitude
• Minimum Altitude: 100 feet (30.5 m) below sea level
• Maximum Altitude: 7,500 feet (2287 m) above sea level
14-18 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Planned Maintenance
Chapter 15
Planned Maintenance
The following chart gives a description, and frequency of Planned Maintenance (P.M.)
procedures. Please refer to Direction 2141834-100 for the details of each P.M. procedure and
P.M. report charts. LightSpeed 3.X PMs are based on gantry revolutions.
PMs will be done every one million gantry revolutions. The average LightSpeed 3.X scanner
does 2,500,000 revolutions per year, therefore the average scanner has approximately two
Planned Maintenance activities per year.
Table 15-1 LightSpeed 3.X PM Schedule (based on 2000k revolution cycle/year)
Schedule
Sub- System Description
A
Console Check Fans / Clean / Vacuum Console Interior X
Computer Check Fans / Clean / Vacuum All Exhaust Vent Holes X
Gantry Grease main bearing
Gantry Handling & removal of slip ring brush debris
Gantry Schleifring Maintenance and Brush Inspection X
Gantry MDAS DAS/Duct Cleaning X
Gantry Inspect Primary Copper Filter X
Gantry Allocation for Gantry Cover Handling X
High
mA meter verification X
Voltage
High
HV tank feedback resistors calibration X
Voltage
High
mA and kV verification (HHS) X
Voltage
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 15-1

LightSpeed ™ 3.X
Schedule
Sub- System Description (Continued)
A
PDU PM Check X
System Verify emergency off buttons (table/console) X
System Check operation of final scan abort pushbuttons X
System Update site log X
System Check PM Manual X
LighSpeed HS Total time w/o camera (units in hours) 3.2
Schedule A - PM Happens Every 1 Million Gantry Revolutions.

LightSpeed PMs are based on gantries doing 2.5 million revolutions per year.
The Laser Camera is normally not considered to be part of the CT system. However, a
schedule for Planned Maintenance for the camera is included in the following table, and
procedures for Planned Maintenance for the GE Lasercamera are contained in the PM
Manual (Direction 2141834-100).
Table 15-2 Laser camera
Sub- Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter

Description
System 1 2 3 4
Laser
3M Laser Camera
Camer X X
Maintenance
a
NOTE: Laser Camera PM’s are based on a Quarterly Schedule (2 PM’s per year) vs. PM’s which
are based on Gantry revolutions.
15-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Numerics D
4Row DAS Daily Fastcal Procedure 6-1
Subsystem Specifications 14-8 Daily Prep 6-1
DAS
A Data Collection 11-22
Address Data Collection 11-22
CT Service Engineering 1-3 General information 11-22
Alignment Light Data Storage 11-27
Alignment Light Accuracy test 12-14 General information 11-27
Subsystem Specifications 14-10 Detector window 7-1
Axial 11-17 DICOM Print 11-2
Disk Space 8-1
C Disk space 8-1
Calibration Display
General information 11-27 General information 11-28
Calibration Modes 11-20 Dosimetry and Performance
Calibration Scans 11-27 Maximum Deviation 12-34
CAM Collimator 11-10 MTF 12-33, 12-35
Cardiac Helical Overview 11-19 Noise 12-29, 12-35
Cardiac Helical Slice Profiles 11-26 Nominal Slice Thickness 12-29
Channel Utilization Table - Full Modes 11-24 Sensitivity Profile 12-35
Channel Utilization Table - Plus Modes 11-25
Check Disk Space 8-1 E
Image space 8-1 Electromagnetic Interference 14-17
Clever Gain 11-20 EMC
Clever Gain Calibration 6-1 Glossary definition 3-6
Collimator Theory 11-12 Emergency Stop 11-1
CT EMI
General information 11-2 Glossary definition 3-6
Operation Theory 11-2 Envi·onmental ·pecifications
CT Description 11-2 Media sto·age 14-16
CT Number 11-29 Environmental Specifications 13-1, 14-15
General information 11-29 Altitude 14-18
Pixels and CT Numbers 11-33 Ambient Temperature 14-16
System Performance 12-7 EMI 14-17
Window Width 11-34 Lighting 14-17
CT/i Performix X-Ray Tube Pollution 14-17
Tube Model and Catalog Numbers 13-1 Relative Humidity 14-16
X-Ray Tube Specifications See X-Ray Tube System Cooling Requirements 14-15
Specification 13-1
Current X-Ray Tube Capacity Effects Prescrip- F
tions and Interscan Delays 11-21 Fast Cal 6-1
Fast Calibration 6-1
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) Index-1

Fastcal Generator Specifications 14-10
Daily procedure 6-1 Exposure Time 14-12, 14-14
Filament Selection 11-22 Generator Rating and Duty Cycle 14-11
Filament Selection Table 11-22 Kilovolts 14-12, 14-14
Focal Spot 11-21 kV, mA and Time Accuracy 14-12
FPA Check Scans 6-1 Main Power Supply 14-10
Measurement Basis 14-14
G Measuring tool variance 14-13
Gantry Milliamperes 14-12, 14-14
Subsystem Specifications 14-9 Gray Scale 11-28
Gantry Coordinate System 11-9 General information 11-28
General Information 11-1
Calibration Scans 11-27 H
CT Description 11-2 Helical 11-18
CT Number 11-29 Helical Overview 11-18
CT Operation Theory 11-2 Helical Scan Data Usage 11-24
Data Collection 11-22 Help
Data Storage 11-27 CT Applications phone number 1-2
DFOV and Pixel Size 11-32 GE CARES phone number 1-2
Filament Selection and Scan Thickness
11-22 I
Filament Selection Table 11-22 Image Display 11-28
Focal Spot 11-21 Image Quality
Gray Scale 11-28 Calibration and Scan Image Quality 12-3
Image Display 11-28 Maintain image quality 5-1, 6-1
Pixel Coordinates 11-31 Phantom Image Test and Analysis
Pixels 11-30 System Performance 12-7
Pixels and CT Numbers 11-33 QA Schedule
RAS coordinates 11-31 QA Procedure 12-3
Reconstruction 11-23 System Performance
Tube Warmup 11-3 System Performance 12-4
Variables you cannot control 11-30 Image Space 8-1
Window Width 11-34 Image space 8-1
X-Ray 11-2, 11-3 Intended Use 11-1
X-Ray Tube Capacity
X-Ray Tube 11-21 K
General information kV
X-Ray 11-3 Accuracy 14-12
accuracy 14-12
Measurement Basis 14-14
Index-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

L Phone numbers
LaserCam CT Applications assistance 1-2
Planned Maintenance 15-2 GE CARES 1-2
Learning and Reference Manual 4-1 Pixel Coordinates 11-31
Pixels 11-30
M DFOV and Pixel Size 11-32
mA General information 11-30
Accuracy 14-12 Pixel Coordinates 11-31
Measurement Basis 14-14 Pixels and CT Numbers 11-33
Maintain Image Quality 12-4 RAS Coordinates 11-31
Matrix Window Width 11-34
Pixel Coordinates 11-31 Pixels and CT Numbers 11-33
Mean 11-34 Planned Maintenance
Media Console 15-1
Media ·to·age ·pecifications 14-16 HV System 15-1
Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) LaserCam 15-2
MTF 12-33 PM Schedule 15-1
MTF 12-33 System 15-2
Maximum Deviation 12-35 Premium Image Quality Helical Example 11-19
MTF test 12-9 Prepare the System
Mylar ring 7-1 Overview sheet 7-1
Mylar Window Check 6-1
Q
N QA 12-1
Noise 12-28, 12-29 Position the phantom 12-4
Maximum Deviation 12-35 QA Phantom 12-1
Nominal Helical Slice Thickness 11-25 QA Procedure 12-1
Center QA Phantom in FOV 12-5
P Copy the QA Data form 12-1
Pediatric Imaging 11-17 Prescribe the QA Series 12-5, 12-13, 12-15
Periodic Maintenance 15-1 QA Schedule 12-3
Phantom System Performance
Alignment Light Accuracy test 12-14 System Performance 12-4
Center Phantom in FOV 12-5 Typical Results & Variations 12-17
Contrast Scale test 12-7 QA Schedule 12-3
High Contrast Spatial Resolution test 12-8 Quality Assurance
Low Contrast Detectability test 12-9 Image Quality 12-1
MTF test 12-9 QA Procedure 12-1
Noise and Uniformity test 12-11 System Performance
Phantoms and Procedures 12-28 System Performance 12-4
QA Phantom description 12-1
Slice Thickness test 12-12
Test and Analyze QA Phantom Images 12-7
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) Index-3

R Subsystem Specifications
Radiation 4Row DAS 14-8
HSA Standard Tube scatter survey Detector 14-8
using body filter 12-36 Gantry 14-9
Radiation Protection 12-35 Generator Subsystem 14-10
RAS Laser Alignment Lights 14-10
Annotation 11-32 Table 14-8
Coordinates 11-31 X-Ray Tube 14-9
RAS Coordinates 11-31 System components 11-1
Reconstruction 11-23 System Data and Control Flow 11-8
General information 11-23 System Dimensions 14-2
Reset 9-1 System Image Quality Features 11-20
Reset Procedures 9-1 System Operational Modes 11-17
System Performance 12-4
S Alignment Light Accuracy 12-14
Safety Analyze the QA Images 12-6
Radiation Protection 12-35 Contrast Scale 12-7
Scan and Recon Prescription User Interface High Contrast Spatial Resolution 12-8
(UIF) 11-20 Low Contrast Detectability 12-9
Scan Duration Maintain Image Quality 12-4
Accuracy 14-12 Maximum Deviation 12-34
Measurement Basis 14-14 MTF 12-9, 12-33, 12-35
Scan Parameters 11-23 Noise 12-28, 12-35
Scan Thickness Noise and Uniformity 12-11
Filament Selection Determines Range Phantoms and Procedures 12-28
11-22 Radiation Protection 12-35
Nominal Slice Thickness 12-29 Sensitivity Profile 12-35
Slice Thickness test 12-12 Slice Thickness 12-12
Scan Time Typical Results & Variations 12-17
Duration and accuracy 14-12 System Shutdown 9-1
Scout 11-17 System Specifications
Sensitivity CT/i Performix X-Ray Tube See X-Ray Tube
Maximum Deviation 12-35 Specifications 13-1
Slice Thickness Full Mode 11-25 Diagnostic Source Assembly 13-2
Slice Thickness Plus Modes 11-26 Environment 13-1
Space on Disks Environmental Specifications 14-15
Maintain Image Space 8-1 Generator Subsystem 14-10
Spatial Resolution 12-8 kV, mA and Time Accuracy 14-12
Standard Deviation 11-34 Measurement Basis 14-14
Start Up 7-1
Index-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Measuring tool variance 14-13 X-Ray Tube Specifications 14-9
Performix Ultra Tube Assembly 13-3, 13-8 Diagnostic Source Assembly 13-2
Performix Ultra Tube Insert 13-4 Performix Ultra Tube Assembly 13-3, 13-8
Subsystem Specifications Performix Ultra Tube Insert 13-4
Subsystem Specifications 14-6
System Dimensions 14-2 Z
System Warmup 5-1 Z-Axis Cell Summation 11-11
T
Table
Subsystem Specifications 14-8
Temperature & Humidity Specifications 14-16
Tube Warmup 5-1, 11-3
General information 11-3
Two hours elapse between exams 5-1
V
Variables You Cannot Control 11-30
Variables you cannot control 11-30
W
Warmup 5-1, 6-1
Warm-up Required 11-27
Warmup Required 11-27
Window Level 11-34
Window Width 11-34
Pixels and CT Numbers 11-34
X
X-Ray
X-ray Generation and Detection Details 11-9
X-Ray Tube
Filament Selection 11-22
Filament Selection Table 11-22
Focal Spot 11-21
X-Ray Tube Capacity 11-21
2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) Index-5

Index-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

g GE Medical Systems
GE Medical Systems: Telex 3797371

9P.O. Box 414, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201 U.S.A.
(Asia, Pacific, Latin America, North America)
GE Medical Systems - Europe: Telex 698626
283, rue de la Miniére, B.P.34, 78533 Buc Cedex, France

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Technical Reference Manual

REVISION HISTORY .............................................................................................................. i-1

Chapter 1: BEFORE YOU START

Chapter 2: X-RAY PROTECTION

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-1

Gantry and Table ................................................................................................................ 3-18

Chapter 4: ACCESSING THE LEARNING AND REFERENCE GUIDE

Chapter 5: TUBE WARMUP

Chapter 6: DAILY FAST CAL PROCEDURE

Chapter 7: PREPARE THE SYSTEM

Chapter 8: CHECK DISK SPACE

Chapter 9: RESET THE SYSTEM

Chapter 10: STOP/START THE OPERATING SYSTEM

Chapter 11: GENERAL INFORMATION

1-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Chapter 12: QUALITY ASSURANCE

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-3

DOSIMETRY ............................................................................................................................. 12-20

1-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-5

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1-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

REV DATE REASON FOR CHANGE

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) i-1

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES

i-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) i-3

i-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-1

User Information Description

1-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Please keep User Information readily available.

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 1-3

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1-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 2-1

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2-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 3-1

Operator Console Ergonomics

3-2 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

CAUTION: Incorrect data entries or procedures could result in misinterpretation or

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 3-3

• Avoid all contact with any electrical conductor.

CAUTION: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS. REFER SERVICE

3-4 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

This product complies with the regulatory requirements of the following:

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 3-5

2. Under certain atmospheric conditions, Electro-Static Discharges (ESD) of 6kV in the

EMI/EMC Glossary Terms:

3-6 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

ElectroMagnetic Interference (EMI): The ability of an electronic system to function properly

Emergency Stop removes power to

2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05) 3-7

Emergency Power Shutdown

Emergency Patient Care During X-Ray ON:

Restore System After Emergency Stop

Systems With Gantry Control Panels

3-8 2302180-100 Rev. 8 (07/05)

Restore System Emergency OFF

Systems With Gantry Control Panels Only