Fluke 37-705 User Manual

Nuclear Associates 37-705

VeriDose® V Five Channel Patient Dose Monitor

Operators Manual

Fluke Biomedical

Radiation Management Services

6045 Cochran Road Cleveland, Ohio 44139

440.498.2564

www.flukebiomedical.com/rms

Table of Contents

Section 1: Introduction................................................................................................ 1-1

1.1 General Description ..................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Features....................................................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Specifications............................................................................................... 1-2

1.4 Accessories ................................................................................................. 1-3

1.5 Receiving Inspection.................................................................................... 1-4

1.6 Storage ........................................................................................................ 1-4

1.7 Routine Cleaning ......................................................................................... 1-4

1.8 Procedures, Warnings, and Cautions .......................................................... 1-5

1.9 Warning and Caution Summary................................................................... 1-5

Section 2: Operation.................................................................................................... 2-1

2.1 Menu Structure Overview ............................................................................ 2-1

2.1.1 General Description................................................................................ 2-1

2.1.2 Menu Operation...................................................................................... 2-1

2.1.3 Startup Screen ....................................................................................... 2-2

2.1.4 Getting Started ....................................................................................... 2-2

2.1.5 Setup ...................................................................................................... 2-2

2.1.6 Connecting to a Computer...................................................................... 2-2

2.1.7 Connecting to a Printer – Reference: Setup-Printer ............................... 2-2

2.1.8 Connections ........................................................................................... 2-2

2.2 Initial Calibration Group ............................................................................... 2-3

2.2.1 Diode Connection and Calibration.......................................................... 2-3

2.2.2 Calibration Process ................................................................................ 2-3

2.2.3 Adding a Diode Group ............................................................................ 2-3

2.2.4 Entering the Database Information......................................................... 2-3

2.2.5 Performing the Calibration...................................................................... 2-4

2.3 Measure Modes ........................................................................................... 2-4

2.4 Select Mode................................................................................................. 2-7

2.5 Setup Modes................................................................................................ 2-8

2.6 QA Phantom ................................................................................................ 2-9

2.7 Calibrate Modes......................................................................................... 2-11

Section 3: VeriDose QC Phantom............................................................................... 3-1

3.1 General Description ..................................................................................... 3-1

3.2 VeriDose QC Phantom Specifications ......................................................... 3-1

3.3 Connection to the VeriDose V...................................................................... 3-2

3.4 Setup ........................................................................................................... 3-2

3.5 Calibration.................................................................................................... 3-2

3.6 Flatness and Symmetry Measurements....................................................... 3-3

3.7 Depth Dose Check....................................................................................... 3-3

Appendix A: Reports .......................................................................................................A-1

Appendix B: Error Messages..........................................................................................B-1

Introduction

General Description

Section 1

Introduction

1.1 General Description

The VeriDose V is a microprocessor based five-channel diode dosimeter for use with radiation sensing diodes. The unit is manufactured by Fluke Biomedical. It provides integrated dose and dose rate display capabilities for patient dose verification and quality assurance in radiation therapy. The diodes may be attached to a patient's skin during radiation therapy when the patient is being exposed to x-rays or electrons. The diodes produce a current directly proportional to the ionizing radiation to which they are exposed. These diodes are directly connected to the VeriDose V. Dose measurements are displayed in units of cGy while rate measurements are shown in units of cGy/minute.

The VeriDose V is intended as a readout for detector diodes (user supplied) used for the detection of ionizing radiation, it should only be used by responsible persons who have the proper training in the interpretation of its readings and the appropriate safety procedures to be followed in the presence of radiation.

The VeriDose V is compatible with VeriDose diodes as well as most industry standard radiation sensitive diodes. VeriDose diodes are available to cover a wide range of energies. These diodes feature a hemispherical shape for improved surface contact with the patient. The model numbers for the VeriDose diodes are shown in the accessories table.

The VeriDose V may be used with continuous and pulsed radiation beams (Cobalt 60 and linear accelerators). The VeriDose V is well suited for use with both static and dynamic wedge fields as well as irregular fields and MLC applications.

The VeriDose V features a backlit LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a menu driven user interface. A keypad with 5 soft-keys, a scroll up, scroll down and enter key provide for easy navigation through the menu structure. An ON/OFF switch, power input connector and RS-232 serial port are located on the right side panel. The rear panel contains the five BNC connectors for the diode inputs and a parallel printer port. Calibration data can be stored for 25 groups, containing up to five diodes each. These usercalibrated groups can be recalled and selected for subsequent measurements. User calibration and treatment data can be transmitted to a printer or computer. An optional label printer is available for direct printout of measured dose to affix to patient charts. A real-time clock provides a time and date stamp for all measurements. The RAM (Random Access Memory) is backed-up by an internal 3.6 V, 370 mAh lithium battery (P/N16-41).

1.2 Features

• Backlit Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and easy-to-use soft-key menu system

• Five independent detector channels with BNC connectors

• Automatic zeroing of each channel to minimize the effects of drift

• RS-232 serial port for computer interface

• Parallel printer interface

• User entered institution name printed on reports

• A group database containing up to 25 diode groups, with up to 5 diodes per group, may be

configured, labeled and calibrated by the operator for subsequent measurements.

• Provides an alarm setting for each individual channel

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• Can be used as a stand-alone system without the need for a PC

1.3 Specifications

Input Circuitry Five bi-polar electrometer channels w/digital zeroing and gain control

Rate Range 1.0 cGy/min to 9999 cGy/min **

Dose Range 0.1 cGy to 9999 cGy

Sensitivity Adjustment 1 nC/cGy nominal, calibration range: 0.1 nC/cGy to 10 nC/cGy

Display 240 x 64 dot Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) 8 line x 40 characters, with

CCF backlight

Clock Real Time Clock, battery operated, US or Euro format

Alarm User selectable alarm level for each channel

User Controls On-off switch

5 column select soft-keys for control functions Scroll up, scroll down and enter key for data entry

User Setup Parameters Stored in non-volatile, battery-backup RAM

Computer Interface RS-232, 19.2 BAUD, 8, N, 1

Data format: standard-decimal points, or Euro-style commas

Printer Interface Parallel, selectable drivers for LaserJet III and later, with ASCII (text)

output compatible with most other printers, RS-232 Serial Port used for Label printer

Report Types Treatment label Treatment report Flatness/Symmetry report Energy constancy report Calibration report

Operating Temperature 50° to 86°F (10° to 30°C) Relative humidity: 5 to 95% non-condensing

Weight 2.5 lbs. (1.2 kg)

Size 9 (w) x 8.5 (d) x 2.5 in (h) (22.9 x 21.6 x 6.4 cm)

EMI shielded

Power 120 VAC, 60 Hz or 230 VAC, 50 Hz to 12 VDC @ 1A AC adapter, UL,

CSA, CE

** The rate range is dependent upon diode sensitivity and beam characteristics. The maximum input charge cannot exceed 7nC per 100mS for negative polarity diodes, or 2.5nC per 100mS for positive polarity diodes.

1-2

Introduction

Accessories

1.4 Accessories

Supplied with VeriDose V

Description Part Number

One of the following, Power converter 12 VDC @ 1A

Input – 120 VAC, 60 Hz, 22 W (US, Canada) 14-328 Input – 230 VAC, 50 Hz, 22 W (Europe) 14-401 Input – 240 V AC, 50 Hz, 21.2 W (UK) 14-414 Input – 240 VAC, 50 Hz, 21.2 W (Australia) 14-414 and 14-416

Cable, RS-232 88-446-7000

VeriDose Excel Add-In 37-705-2100 (9437705XL)

9-pin D-Sub to RJ11 adapter 88-705-1106 (173072)

Diode extension cable, 10 m 88-490 (Qty: 2)

Printer Cable 88-705-1100 (50-138)

Optional Accessories

Description Part Number

Label printer 37-705-1101 Additional labels 81-705-1100 Adaptor, 9-pin D-Sub to RJ11, Male 88-705-1105 (173073) Cable, RS-232 88-446- 7000

Diode extension cable, 10 m 88-490

Diode and extension cable, 3 m 88-490-1000

VeriDose Diodes

Description Part Number

1 MV to 4 MV photon diode, Blue 30-471-8000

5 MV to 11 MV photon diode, Yellow 30-472-8000

12 MV to 17 MV photon diode, Red 30-473-8000

18 MV to 25 MV photon diode, Green 30-474-8000

6 MeV to 25 MeV electron diode, Gray 30-475-8000 Dual purpose phantom, Flat/sym. and energy

check Calibration fixture 37-705-4000

Diode extension cable, 10 m 88-490

Diode Holder, 5 slot 30-492-1000

Calibration Jig, 5 slot 30-492-5200

VeriDose QC Phantom 37-705-7000

Acrylic slab 9.85 in SQ x 2 cm 37-705-7061

Acrylic slab 9.85 in SQ x 1 cm 37-705-7062

Acrylic slab 9.85 in SQ x .5 cm 37-705-7063

VeriDose acrylic slab set 37-705-7069

Cable assembly, 50 ft 37-705-7300

Cable assembly, 80 ft 37-705-7301

37-705-5000

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1.5 Receiving Inspection

Upon receipt of the unit:

1. Check the packaging and its contents for damage. If damage is evident, file a claim with the carrier and contact Fluke Biomedical at 440.248.9300 for further instructions.

2. Remove the packaging and visually inspect the unit for damage.

3. Check that all items on the packing list have been received and are in good condition.

If items are missing or damaged, contact Fluke Biomedical at 440.248.9300 for further instructions.

1.6 Storage

If the unit is to be stored prior to use, pack it in the original container, if possible, and store in an environment free of corrosive materials, fluctuations in temperature and humidity, and vibration and shock.

Prior to use, check the condition and functionality of the device. Also check that the calibration is still valid. Periodic re-calibration is usually required by individual radiation safety and/or quality assurance programs. Please consult your local radiation safety or quality assurance office if you have any questions.

1.7 Routine Cleaning

Do not immerse the Model 37-705 VeriDose V. The unit is not waterproof. Liquid could damage the internal circuitry. The unit should be kept clean and free from dirt and contamination. The unit may be cleaned by wiping with a damp cloth using any commercially available cleaning or decontamination agent.

1-4

Introduction

Procedures, Warnings, and Cautions

1.8 Procedures, Warnings, and Cautions

The equipment described in this manual is intended to be used for the detection and measurement of ionizing radiation. It should be used only by persons who have been trained in the proper interpretation of its readings and the appropriate safety procedures to be followed in the presence of radiation.

Although the equipment described in this manual is designed and manufactured in compliance with all applicable safety standards, certain hazards are inherent in the use of electronic and radiometric equipment.

WARNINGS and CAUTIONS are presented throughout this document, when applicable, to alert the user to potentially hazardous situations. A WARNING is a precautionary message preceding an operation that has the potential to cause personal injury or death. A CAUTION is a precautionary message preceding an operation that has the potential to cause permanent damage to the equipment and/or loss of data. Failure to comply with WARNINGS and CAUTIONS is at the user’s own risk and is sufficient cause to terminate the warranty agreement between Fluke Biomedical, Radiation Measurement Services and the customer.

Adequate warnings are included in this manual and on the product itself to cover hazards that may be encountered in normal use and servicing of this equipment. No other procedures are warranted by Fluke Biomedical. It shall be the owner’s or user’s responsibility to see to it that the procedures described here are meticulously followed, and especially that WARNINGS and CAUTIONS are heeded. Failure on the part of the owner or user in any way to follow the prescribed procedures shall absolve Fluke Biomedical and its agents from any resulting liability.

Indicated battery and other operational tests must be performed prior to each use to assure that the instrument is functioning properly. If applicable, failure to conduct periodic performance tests in accordance with ANSI N323-1978 (R1983) Radiation Protection Instrumentation Test and Calibration, paragraphs 4.6 and 5.4, and to keep records thereof in accordance with paragraph 4.5 of the same standard, could result in erroneous readings or potential danger. ANSI N323-1978 becomes, by this reference, a part of this operating procedure.

1.9 Warning and Caution Summary

Warning Summary

The VeriDose V is intended to be used as a quality assurance device only. This product is not a primary delivered dose measurement device and as such poses no known possible patient risk. Since this product is an independent quality assurance device used for monitoring delivered dose, it plays no role whatsoever in the administration of radiation to the patient and in no way affects the performance of the radiation therapy system.

VeriDose V is intended as a readout for detector diodes (user supplied) used for the detection of ionizing radiation, it should only be used by responsible persons who have the proper training in the interpretation of its readings and the appropriate safety procedures to be followed in the presence of radiation.

Caution Summary

The VeriDose V is not to be used as a primary calibration device nor is it to be used as a part of a primary calibration system. The operator must exercise caution and care when connecting detectors to the VeriDose V and selecting user calibrated detector groups as these actions directly affect the accuracy of the device. For this reason it is the operators' responsibility to clearly mark the diode and its' connector to prevent connection to the wrong input channel and to select the appropriate user calibration group prior to use.

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Operation

Menu Structure Overview

Section 2

Operation

2.1 Menu Structure Overview

2.1.1 General description

The VeriDose V provides a comprehensive menu structure allowing immediate access to frequently used functions. The five keys, located below the display, relate to the displayed functions in each of the respective columns for selection and control. These keys are referred to as "soft-keys" since their operation at any given time depends on the menu being displayed. The three keys to the right of the display, up and down arrows and enter key, control scrolling and entry operations. A group database containing up to 25 diode groups, with up to 5 diodes (channels) per group may be configured, labeled and calibrated by the operator for subsequent measurements. The following section describes in detail the operation of the menu functions. Menu items shown in italics throughout the manual indicate user-entered names.

2.1.2 Menu operation

The "main" menu screen is shown below (Measure Dose screen #1). The VeriDose V's mode of operation is controlled from this mode select screen. There are 5 column control keys located directly below the display. The first key on the left is the "mode" key. Pressing the mode key at any time returns to the mode select screen and selects the mode column. The selected column is indicated by the presence of the menu cursor (blinking reverse video) within the column. Pressing the mode key again will move the blinking menu cursor up through the column of available modes: MEASURE, SELECT, SETUP and CAL (calibrate). Pressing the up or down arrow keys moves the menu cursor up or down through the available modes. As the cursor moves, all of the options available for that mode are displayed in the columns to the right.

Pressing a soft-key to the right of the mode key moves the blinking menu cursor into the selected column. Pressing the soft-key again will move the blinking menu cursor up through the column of available options. Pressing the up or down arrow keys moves the menu cursor up or down through the selected column of available options. After options have been highlighted, the enter key may be pressed to start the selected mode with the selected options. Pressing the mode key at any time returns to the mode select screen.

Under various conditions message boxes will appear in the lower right corner of the display. These messages provide special instructions and/or status information.

Dose Screen #1

MEASURE DOSE group name

SELECT RATE 1 ON SETUP ALARMS 2 ON CAL REPORT 3 OFF 4 OFF 5 OFF MODE OPTION CHANNEL STATUS

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2.1.3 Start-up Screen

When the VeriDose V is powered up the startup screen is displayed while the unit performs a self-test. This test includes a non-destructive, read/write Ram memory test and a RS-232 loop-back test. If an error occurs, refer to Appendix B for error messages.

2.1.4 Getting Started

This section describes the step-by-step process of making connections to the VeriDose V and calibrating a diode group for initial measurements. For detailed descriptions of all the VeriDose V features refer to the MODES section of this manual.

2.1.5 Setup

Connect the power converter supplied with the VeriDose V, 12 VDC @ 1A, to the readout and a convenient power outlet.

2.1.6 Connecting to a Computer

A PC may be connected to the VeriDose V by connecting the supplied cable, RJ11 (modular phone type connector) to the RS-232 jack on the VeriDose and the 9-pin female D-Sub to an available com port on the computer. The interface can easily be tested using either Terminal mode in Windows 3.1, Hyperterminal in Windows 95 or any suitable communications program. The appropriate com port and the communications parameters, 19.2k BAUD, 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit are selected via the PC communication program. Upon power up of the VeriDose V, a startup message will be transmitted to the computer.

The Excel Add-In supplied with the VeriDose V provides an easy method of downloading the readings into the Excel spreadsheet. The instructions for installing and running the add-in are found on the installation disk in the README.TXT file. This file is a text file and may be viewed using a suitable word processor program.

The Serial (RS-232) port on the VeriDose V may be used for either a computer connection or the label printer connection. When the label printer is selected, via the setup printer menu, computer communications are suspended. An alternative printer must be selected to re-enable computer communications.

2.1.7 Connecting to a Printer - Reference: SETUP-PRINTER

The VeriDose V system produces several types of reports compatible with most printers. The SETUP-PRINTER menu provides the option of selecting drivers for LaserJet III and later, Label (Seiko Model SLP

220) or ASCII output. The label connects to the VeriDose V RS-232 serial interface located on the right side of the unit.

2.1.8 Connections

The printer port on the VeriDose V is located on the rear panel and is used for all printer connections except the label printer. Connect the printer cable to the VeriDose V and the printer.

2-2

Operation

Menu Structure Overview

The label printer is connected using the supplied cable with the RJ11 (modular phone type connector to the RS-232 jack on the side of the VeriDose V and the 9-pin male D-Sub to the 9-pin female connector supplied with the label printer.

2.2 Initial Calibration Group

2.2.1 Diode connection and calibration

Since the VeriDose V system displays the results of a dose measurement, the system must be calibrated to a diode set or multiple sets prior to use. In order to calibrate the system, select the appropriate diode(s) for the target energy. The sensitivity of each diode is unique and the calibration process will associate a calibration factor for each diode to a specific channel. Therefore, it is necessary to assure that the correct diode is connected to the appropriate channel for all subsequent measurements. If five or fewer diodes are used, they may be left permanently attached to the VeriDose V. However, if multiple diode sets are routinely used, a reliable method of assuring proper connection must be established.

Prior to beginning the calibration process it is necessary to become familiar with the operation of the menus and data entry. Refer to Section 2.1.2, Menu Operation.

2.2.2 Calibration Process

1. Connect the diode(s), starting at channel 1 to the input connectors on the rear panel of the VeriDose V.

2. Apply power to the unit by placing the ON/OFF switch, located on the right side of the unit, in the ON position.

2.2.3 Adding a Diode Group

1. Scroll to the CAL menu item using the MODE key located below the first column. The second column allows the entry of a password. Since a new password has not been entered, the default password AAAA allows immediate access to the calibration functions. Press the ENTER key located to the right of the display.

2. The first step in the calibration process is to add a calibration group. A group represents a particular set of diodes that will be stored in the calibration database. Select a name for the new group such as "6X" or "6E". Select ADD in the OPTION column. Press the NAME soft-key to select the first character of the name. Repressing the NAME soft-key will move the cursor to the next character position. Enter the group name by pressing the UP or DOWN keypads to the right of the display to scroll though the character set and press the column 3 soft-key to move the cursor to the next character position. After the name has been entered press the ENTER key.

2.2.4 Entering the Database Information

1. Each channel that has a diode connected must be activated by scrolling to each individual channel number in the second column and selecting YES in the third column. The fourth column displays the database items and fifth column allows the user to enter the identifiers for each of these items. The database items are printed on each report for record keeping purposes.

2. Select channel 1 and enter the Serial number of the diode connected to channel 1. Press the softkey below column 5 to scroll the cursor to the right and use the UP and DOWN keys to the right of the display to enter the appropriate serial number. A blank space can be entered by scrolling down from "A".

3. Press the OPTION soft-key (column 4) to select the Modality item. Press the soft-key below column 5 and use the UP and DOWN keys to the right of the display to enter the appropriate modality label.

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4. Press the OPTION soft-key (column 4) to select the Energy item. Press the soft-key below column 5 to scroll the cursor to the right and use the UP and DOWN keys to the right of the display to enter the appropriate energy.

5. Press the OPTION soft-key (column 4) to select the Machine item. Press the soft-key below column 5 to scroll the cursor to the right and use the UP and DOWN keys to the right of the display to enter the appropriate machine label. A blank space can be entered by scrolling down from "A".

6. Press the OPTION soft-key (column 4) to select the Comment item. Press the soft-key below column 5 to scroll the cursor to the right and use the UP and DOWN keys to the right of the display to enter the appropriate comment. A blank space can be entered by scrolling down from "A".

7. Repeat this process for each channel that has a diode connected by pressing the column 2 soft-key to access the related database items.

8. After completing the entry of all the database information press the ENTER key. Press the YES key (column 4) to save the database information.

2.2.5 Performing the Calibration

1. The next step is to perform the calibration. Verify that the diodes are clustered near isocenter on the treatment table. Scroll to the EXPOSE menu item by pressing the soft-key below the second column. Select the GROUP of diodes you wish to expose by pressing the GROUP soft-key. Press ENTER.

2. The display indicates the channel status for each of the 5 input channels. All channels that will be calibrated at this time must indicate YES in the EXPOSE column. Press the column 2 soft-key to select the channel and the column 3 soft-key to set the appropriate channels to YES. Upon completion press the ENTER key.

3. The VeriDose V is ready for a calibration exposure. Make a minimum exposure of 100 cGy. After the exposure, press the DONE soft-key (column 5).

4. The results of the measurement are displayed. Enter the actual exposure in cGy by pressing the UP or DOWN keys to increment the value at the cursor position. Press the ENTER key to move the cursor to the next digit. After entering the actual exposure the sensitivity for each channel is calculated and displayed as nC/cGy. Press the YES soft-key (column 4) to save the calibration factors in the group database.

5. The new group is now calibrated and the system may be used for additional measurements. This process may be repeated for each diode group that will be used with the VeriDose V.

6. To make a routine measurement, scroll to the MEASURE menu item by pressing the mode softkey. Select the dose option by pressing the OPTION soft-key and scrolling to the DOSE menu item. Press the ENTER key.

2.3 Measure Modes

Dose Dose Screen #1

MEASURE DOSE group name

SELECT RATE SETUP ALARMS CAL REPORT

MODE OPTION

2-4

1 ON 2 ON 3 OFF 4 OFF 5 OFF

CHANNEL Status

Operation

Measure Modes

Dose screen #1 shows the display format prior to a dose measurement. The group name displayed is the name of the previously selected group. The are activated (ON). To make a dose measurement, a group must be selected and at least one channel of that group must be calibrated and activated (see SELECT - GROUP).

To begin a dose measurement, press the ENTER key. The message “PLEASE WAIT” will be displayed while the unit zeroes the channel signals. After the channels are zeroed, the VeriDose V beeps and dose screen #2 will be displayed. If a channel is not zeroed correctly, "ZERO ERR" will be displayed to the right of the appropriate channel.

Dose Screen #2

ON/OFF status column indicates which diodes for that group

104.3

Ch 1

cGy

99.8

Ch 2

cGy

0.0

Ch 3

OFF

cGy

ABORT

Dose screen #2 shows the display format during a dose measurement. When the signal from the active diode(s) indicates the beginning of an exposure, the VeriDose V will start the exposure timer and continue to acquire data.

The cumulative dose for each channel is displayed as the exposure is occurring. Channels that have been disabled will indicate “OFF” to the right of the appropriate channel. Any channels that exceed the dose set-point of an active alarm will flash (see MEASURE - ALARMS).

Pressing the DONE soft-key will conclude the measurement and stop the exposure timer. The accumulated dose and "PRESS ANY KEY TO CONTINUE MESSAGE" will be displayed. Pressing the ABORT soft-key will display a message box that allows the user to continue the exposure by pressing NO or return to the MENU display by pressing YES.

If VeriDose V is in A-PRINT (auto-print) mode the message "PREPARING REPORT...PLEASE WAIT” will appear as the selected report is printed after each exposure (see SETUP - PRINTER).

Rate Rate screen # 1

0.0

Ch 4

cGy

Ch 5

OFF

cGy

DONE

MEASURE

SELECT

DOSE

RATE

1 ON

group Name

SETUP ALARMS 2 ON CAL REPORT 3 OFF 4 OFF 5 OFF MODE OPTION CHANNEL STATUS

Rate screen #1 shows the display format prior to a rate measurement. The group name displayed is the name of the previously selected group. The ON/OFF status column indicates which diodes for that group are activated (ON). To make a rate measurement, a group must be selected and at least one channel of that group must be calibrated and activated (see SELECT - GROUP).

To begin a rate measurement, press the ENTER key. The message “PLEASE WAIT” will be displayed while the unit zeroes the channel signals. After the channels are zeroed, the VeriDose V beeps and dose

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Rate screen #2 will be displayed. If a channel is not zeroed correctly, “ZERO ERR” will be displayed to the right of the appropriate channel.

Rate Screen #2

104.3

Ch 1

cGy

99.8

Ch 2

cGy

0.0

Ch 3

OFF

cGy

ABORT

Rate screen #2 shows the display format during a rate measurement. When the signal from the active diode(s) indicates the beginning of an exposure, the VeriDose V will start the exposure timer and continue to acquire data.

The instantaneous rate for each channel is displayed as the exposure is occurring. The cumulative dose for each channel is measured in the background and although not displayed can be printed on reports. Any channels that exceed the dose set-point of an active alarm will flash (see MEASURE - ALARMS).

If VeriDose V is in A-PRINT (auto-print) mode the message “PREPARING REPORT...PLEASE WAIT” will appear as the selected report is printed after each exposure (see SETUP - PRINTER). The reports printed following a rate mode measurement will include the dose values only.

0.0

DONE

Ch 4

cGy

Ch 5

OFF

cGy

Alarms Alarms Screen

MEASURE

DOSE

1 000.0 cGy OFF

SELECT RATE 2 000.0 cGy OFF SETUP

ALARMS

3 000.0 cGy OFF CAL REPORT 4 000.0 cGy OFF 5 000.0 cGy ON

MODE OPTION CHANNEL LEVEL STATUS

The Alarm screen permits alarm levels to be set and enabled or disabled for any given exposure by individual channel. Alarm levels and status settings apply to all groups. Pressing the soft-key under the CHANNEL column will move the highlight to the next channel. Pressing the soft-key under the LEVEL column will cause the cursor to appear under the most significant digit of the highlighted alarm level. The UP and DOWN keys changes the number. Pressing the STATUS column will toggle the highlighted STATUS ON/OFF. Pressing the MODE soft-key or OPTION soft-key will exit this screen with the highlighted items selected. All menu selections are maintained in non-volatile memory and will be maintained when the power to the instrument is turned off. The default from the factory is alarm channel STATUS OFF.

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Reports Report Screen

Operation

Measure Modes

MEASURE

SELECT RATE

SETUP ALARMS

CAL

DOSE TRTFULL

REPORT

FLT/SYM

E-

CONST

TRTLABL

MODE OPTION TYPE

The report screen is used to select the type of report to be printed. The selected report can be manually or automatically printed following an exposure. Automatic printing is activated by turning the A-PRINT function ON (ref. SETUP - PRINTER). To manually print a report based on the last exposure, select report type and press the ENTER key.

There are four types of reports that can be printed directly from the VeriDose V. The default is the previously selected report type.

• TRTFULL Full treatment report

• TRTLABL Treatment report for label printer only

• FLT/SYM Flatness and symmetry report

• E-CONST Energy constancy report

See the Appendices for sample reports.

2.4 Select Mode

Calibration Groups Select Screen

MEASURE

SELECT

group name

2 ON SETUP CAL 4 OFF 5 OFF

MODE GROUP CHANNEL STATUS MORE

In the SELECT - GROUP mode the operator can select a group of previously calibrated diodes. The UP and DOWN keys may be used to scroll through the previously entered group names. The MORE soft-key allows the operator to review the calibration data for each individual diode in the group. The operator entries for MACHINE, MODALITY, ENERGY, COMMENT, STATUS, SER/NUM, CAL FAC, and DATE (calibration date) are displayed via the MORE soft-key. When the channel STATUS is being displayed, the highlighted channel can be toggled ON or OFF by pressing the STATUS soft-key. The highlighted channel can be changed by pressing the CHANNEL soft-key.

1 ON

3 OFF

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