Filter
Top Products
General Information
Introduction
1
1-1
Section 1
General Information
1.1 Introduction
The Model 07-453 Digital Pulse Counter measures exposure time for a wide variety of x-ray generators.
For half-wave x-rays such as dental machines, the instrument is always used in Pulse mode. The
instrument will display the number of pulses. For DC or 3-phase x-rays, the 07-453 is always used in
Millisec mode. After an exposure, the instrument will indicate the exposure time in milliseconds. For full-
wave x-rays, the operator may need to try both modes. For most full-wave x-rays, especially at low power
settings, the 07-453 should be used in Pulse mode. The unit will indicate the number of x-ray pulses.
Many full-wave x-ray waveforms have a DC component. In other words, the x-ray output does not drop to
zero between pulses. When this occurs, the 07-453 will read 1(one) when used in Pulse mode. The
output of a DC x-ray is actually one pulse, so the instrument is reading correctly. To measure the
exposure time, simply switch the instrument to Millisec and the instrument will time the x-ray in
milliseconds.
It is important that the user be thoroughly familiar
with the contents of this manual before performing
any tests on radiation-generating equipment. It is
also imperative that the user be thoroughly
qualified, and familiar with safety precautions and
other practices relating to radiation generators.
1.2 Description
The Digital X-Ray Pulse Counter/Timer is used to measure the duration of radiation output produced by x-
ray generators. This solid-state, digital instrument is designed specifically to aid service personnel in
assessing the performance of radiation generator timing controls. The instrument is a noninvasive
instrument, which samples the radiation beam of x-rays.
The Digital X-Ray Pulse Counter/Timer can be used as follows:
1. To count the number of x-ray pulses produced by half-wave and full-wave rectified machines;
typically 60 pulses per second for half-wave rectified machines or 120 pulses per second for full-
wave. Dental x-ray machines are typically half-wave rectified.
2. To measure the length of radiation output when the x-ray output is steady-state such that “pulsing”
does not exist. X-rays that generate steady outputs include 3-phase AC medical x-ray machines,
capacitor discharge x-ray machines and DC operated x-rays.
3. To measure the “on time” or relay contact closure time by counting the number of pulses of AC line
voltage (65 to 130 VAC) via the front panel input jacks and test leads.
The Digital X-Ray Pulse Counter/Timer replaces not only mechanical impulse counters, but also other
electronic counters. Its small hand-held size allows it to conveniently fit in a small tool box/jacket pocket.
There is no “Reset” button. The Digital X-Ray Pulse Counter/Timer automatically resets at the beginning
of each exposure, holding the reading until the next exposure.
NOTE