Where is the detector element (DEL) located?

The detector element (DEL) is integral to the functioning of a digital radiography system, particularly in mammography. It is specifically located within the thin-film transistor (TFT) array. This is where the DEL collects and converts the x-ray photons into an electrical signal. The TFT acts as both the readout and control mechanism for each DEL, allowing for efficient and accurate image capture.

The process begins when x-rays pass through the breast tissue and are absorbed by the imaging plate, which contains photo-stimulable phosphors or semiconductor materials. The DELs, positioned within the TFT, then respond to these absorbed x-rays. These components play a critical role in converting the x-ray interactions into digital signals that form the final mammography image.

Understanding the location and function of the DEL is essential for recognizing how digital mammography systems operate, particularly in terms of image quality and processing speed. This knowledge is vital for any radiologic technologist studying for the ARRT Mammography Boards.