As medical imaging technology advances, more hospitals are upgrading to DR (Digital Radiography) systems—and the flat panel detector (FPD) is the backbone of this upgrade, directly impacting imaging quality and workflow efficiency. With a wide range of FPD types and price points on the market, selecting the right one requires careful consideration of your specific needs. Below are the core factors to guide your decision.
1. First: Choose the Right FPD Size
Size is a foundational consideration, as it determines which body parts you can image and compatibility with your existing equipment.
- Common standard sizes: The most widely available FPDs are 17×17 inches and 14×17 inches. Select based on the maximum size your cassette holder (or imaging frame) can accommodate—this ensures seamless integration without extra adapters.
- Chest imaging note: A 17×17 inch FPD is ideal for chest radiographs, as it provides full coverage of the thoracic cavity for clearer, more comprehensive images.
- Custom sizes: If you need non-standard sizes (e.g., for specialized pediatric or extremity imaging), confirm with the manufacturer first. Custom FPDs are available but typically come with a higher price tag.
2. Wired vs. Wireless FPD: Match to Your Workflow
The connection type affects mobility and setup flexibility—choose based on the distance between your FPD, imaging frame, and computer.
- Wired FPDs: Connect to the computer via an Ethernet cable. They are generally more affordable and offer stable, consistent data transmission (no risk of signal interference). Best for fixed DR rooms where equipment positions are stationary.
- Wireless FPDs: Connect via wireless signals (e.g., Wi-Fi). They cost more than wired models but enable greater mobility—perfect for mobile DR setups, ward rounds, or clinics where the FPD needs to be moved between rooms.
When deciding, ask: How far will the FPD be from the computer? Do we need to reposition the detector frequently?
3. FPD Material: Amorphous Silicon vs. Amorphous Selenium
The detector’s material impacts image quality, durability, and environmental requirements.
- Amorphous Silicon (a-Si) FPDs: The most common type on the market. They balance image quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, and have low requirements for working conditions (resistant to minor temperature/humidity fluctuations). Ideal for most general DR applications (e.g., routine radiography in hospitals and clinics).
- Amorphous Selenium (a-Se) FPDs: Offer superior image clarity (higher spatial resolution) because they convert X-rays directly to electrical signals (no intermediate light step). However, they are more sensitive to environmental factors (e.g., temperature, vibration) and prone to failures if not maintained properly—making them less common for everyday use.
Choose a Trusted FPD Manufacturer
Selecting the right FPD ensures your DR system delivers consistent, high-quality images for years. Weifang NEWHEEK Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. specializes in manufacturing and selling flat panel detectors—offering standard sizes, wireless/wired options, and custom solutions to fit your DR upgrade needs.
If you have questions about FPD compatibility, pricing, or customization, contact us directly:
Tel: +86 19953639012
Post time: Nov-27-2025