RTI Scatter Probe FAQ

What are the key features of the new RTI Scatter Probe?

• Compliant – It can measure scatter and leakage according to IEC and CFR standards by using a 10 cm² or 100 cm² sensor.
• True Flexibility – It can be used as a hand-held meter or with other mounting options (a tripod, for example).
• Time-saving – It has a fast signal response and there is no downtime. Unlike an ion chamber scatter meter, the RTI Scatter Probe is not affected by temperature and humidity. There is minimal equipment dead time with the recommended two-year calibration cycle.
• Durable – It is lightweight, immediate, and with robust cutting-edge technology.
• Lower cost of ownership – There are significant savings on freight cost when recalibrating the equipment (i.e. the instrument is not rated as ‘hazardous goods’ and calibration interval is every two years vs. an ion chamber that is every year).

What detector technology is the new RTI Scatter Probe?

The new RTI Scatter Probe is of semi-conductor technology, with multiple sensors, covered with various filtrations, arranged in a matrix to get the energy response we wish to see.

What is the response time for the RTI Scatter Probe?

The response time depends on the exposure rate. It varies from 500 ms to 0.5 ms.

I would like to learn the measurement principles; how is dose measured in the detector and how is energy estimated?

In similarity to the measurement of kVp with a non-invasive meter like the Piranha, the RTI Scatter Probe uses various internal signals to get information about the X-ray spectrum. These signals are used to calculate the mean energy as well as the half-value layer of the X-ray spectra.

What are the key use cases for the new RTI Scatter Probe?

The new RTI Scatter Probe can be used as a hand-held or fixed on a tripod detector for X-ray tube leakage radiation and scatter radiation measurements in the X-ray environment.

Can it be used to measure patient scatter in fluoroscopy?

Yes, either with a Phantom or an actual patient.

Can the new scatter probe be used for measurements with high-frequency pulsed fluoroscopy systems?

Yes, dose-wise, no radiation will be lost.

Can the new RTI Scatter Probe be used for leakage measurement behind the lead glass and behind the walls of the X-ray room?

Yes. Manual Mode radiation levels lower than 0.1 µGy/h can be detected. Using the default Auto Mode, the meter will trigger at rate levels as low as 5 uGy/h (0.6 mR/h) or 10 uSv/h.

Can I use the RTI Scatter Probe in therapy?

No problem for general X-rays in therapy departments. For higher energies radiation will be detected, but uncertainty will increase since there is no valid calibration when the mean energy is higher than 150 keV.

Find out more here. 

The RTI Scatter Probe promo film. Click to watch.