Signal-to-noise ratio and detective quantum efficiency analysis of optically coupled CCD mammography imaging systems.
OBJECTIVE
Design considerations for x-ray systems with optically coupled charge-coupled devices require an understanding of the characteristics of cascaded multistage imaging chains. Performance evaluations rely on accurate analyses of signal-to-noise ratio, noise power spectrum, and detective quantum efficiency.


METHODS
Theoretic models of signal-to-noise ratio, noise power spectrum, and detective quantum efficiency were extended to analyze the optically coupled charge-coupled device and other electronic x-ray imaging systems. The descriptions of how to measure or compute these parameters are provided.


RESULTS
The results of our quantitative analysis illustrate that x-ray quantum-noise limitation can be obtained without an image intensifier by using a low additive noise charge-coupled device.


CONCLUSIONS
This theoretic model and experimental method provide a useful tool for developing optoelectronic x-ray imaging systems for digital mammography and other radiologic procedures.
Liu
H
H
Department of Radiology, University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville 22908, USA.
Fajardo
L L
LL
Penny
B C
BC
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008327:Mammography / Q000295:instrumentation; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation; D013679:Technology, Radiologic