CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which type of x-ray generator is commonly used in modern CT scanners?

1. High frequency generators

2. Low frequency generators

3. Battery-operated generators

4. Conventional transformers

The correct answer is: High frequency generators

High frequency generators are commonly used in modern CT scanners because they offer several significant advantages. These generators are capable of producing a high-quality, stable x-ray beam with minimal ripple, which results in improved image quality and greater efficiency. They allow for rapid changes in voltage and current, making it possible to quickly adjust the output during scanning. This rapid adjustment contributes to better control of radiation dose, enhances the speed of the scanning process, and increases the overall effectiveness in capturing clear images of the area being examined. The other types of generators, such as low frequency generators, battery-operated generators, and conventional transformers, do not provide the same level of efficiency or image quality required for advanced imaging modalities like CT. Low frequency generators tend to produce a less stable and lower quality x-ray beam, which can negatively impact image resolution. Battery-operated generators may not deliver sufficient power for the demands of CT imaging, and conventional transformers are generally outdated technology that cannot meet the sophisticated requirements of modern imaging techniques. Thus, high frequency generators have become the standard in CT technology.