Below is a list of the common questions users have asked while using the A/T ScanX.
- What are the computer requirements for the A/T ScanX?
- Which software can be used with the A/T ScanX?
- Is the A/T ScanX network compatible?
- What comes with the unit?
- Is the A/T ScanX supplied with an USB port?
- Is the USB connection an advantage for the A/T ScanX?
- Will the A/T ScanX with the USB port operate on USB-I and USB-II?
- How is the A/T ScanX with an EPP port connected to the computer?
- What are the advantages of Digital Imaging versus Film Processing?
- Can I insert more than one plate into the A/T ScanX at a time?
- How do I feed extraoral plates in the unit?
- Do I need a separate machine for intraoral and extraoral x-rays?
- How many Line Pairs can the A/T ScanX read?
- What is the difference in time and file size between standard and enhanced resolution for both a size 2 Plate and a Pan Plate?
- How do I maintain the A/T ScanX?
- How do I clean the Phosphor Storage Plates?
- How do I disinfect the Phosphor Storage Plates?
- What is the warranty on the A/T ScanX?
- How and when can I get a demonstration?

1. What are the computer requirements for the A/T ScanX?
We recommend using the following computer hardware:
| CPU Speed: |
2.8 GHz Pentium IV |
| Operating: |
2000 Professional Service Pack 4 or later, Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 1 and KB B22603 update or later |
| RAM: |
512 MB |
| Hard Drive: |
40 GB |
| CD ROM Drive: |
48X |
| Monitor (1024 x 786 Resolution): |
SVGA 17", contrast ratio 450:1, .22 dot pitch capability. For optimum viewing CTR recommended |
| Video Display Adapter: |
32 MB RAM |
| Keyboard, Mouse: |
Standard |
| Backup Device: |
Recommended for daily saving |
| External Surge Protector: |
Recommended |
| Power supply backup: |
Recommended |
| USB Port: |
USB 1.1 or higher |
| Printer: |
Optional |
back to top
2. Which software can be used with the A/T ScanX?
Download Imaging Software Vendor List.
back to top
3. Is the A/T ScanX network compatible?
Yes.
back to top
4. What comes with the unit?
The system includes:
- Power Cord & Power Supply
- Computer Connector Cord
- (4) Size 2 Plate Guides
- (1) each size 0,1, and 3 Plate Guides
- (20) Size 2 Phosphor Storage Plates (PSP)
- (1) Box of 300 Barrier Envelopes for size 2 PSPs
- (1) Plate Transfer Box for transporting exposed intraoral PSPs
- (1) Printed copy of the Operator’s Manual and Instruction Sheets
- (1) CD-ROM with any revisions of Operator’s Manual
back to top
5. Is the A/T ScanX supplied with an USB port?
Yes.
back to top
6. Is the USB connection an advantage for the A/T ScanX?
Yes. The latest computer hardware is being equipped with USB connectors which require a smaller and easier to attach cable.
USB is advantageous when used with "streaming video." EPP may transfer data from still images, like the A/T ScanX produces, more quickly than USB, however this is not perceptible to the operator.
back to top
7. Will the A/T ScanX with the USB port operate on USB-I and USB-II?
Yes.
back to top
8. How is the A/T ScanX with an EPP port connected to the computer?
Virtually every computer ever made has a parallel port connection. When the A/T ScanX is connected to a computer, the software used to operate the A/T ScanX has this parallel port connection configured as an EPP port. The hardware/software supplier will do this by going into the system BIOS and activating this port to respond to the EPP commands. Some computers may not be EPP friendly (example: Dell). In this case, the computer supplier will have to add a card that has the EPP capability. We understand that it is readily available at a cost of less than $100.
back to top
9. What are the advantages of Digital Imaging versus Film Processing?
Properly engineered Digital Imaging equipment will offer substantial times savings, ease-of-use and superior diagnostic quality radiographs.
back to top
10. Can I insert more than one plate into the A/T ScanX at a time?
You can feed one plate per plate guide, i.e. four plates at a time. Additional plates can be fed as soon as the track light turns green.
The first intraoral image is available after 17 seconds; subsequent images in as little as 4 seconds and a full mouth series in less than 2 minutes. Panoramic images take 25 seconds and cephalometric images 32 seconds.
back to top
11. How do I feed extraoral plates in the unit?
With the printed side facing you, position the extraoral plate behind the plate guides against the curved surface and gently slide the plate down until the transport mechanism takes over and the plate moves on its own. At this point all of the lights will turn red, indicating the slot is in use. Only one extraoral plate can be fed in at a time. The next plate may be fed after the lights change from red to green.
back to top
12. Do I need a separate machine for intraoral and extraoral x-rays?
No, with ScanX you are able to digitally process any size x-ray, intraoral or extraoral. Air Techniques manufactures phosphor plates that match the sizes of traditional film. Just replace your film with the corresponding phosphor plate!
Intraoral: Sizes 0,1,2,3, & 4
Panoramic: 5" x 12" or 6" x 12"
Cephalometric : 8" x 10"
back to top
13. How many Line Pairs can the A/T ScanX read?
Resolution capability of the A/T ScanX in LP/mm:
| Mode |
LP/mm (Line Pairs per milli-meter) |
| |
Vertically |
Horizontally |
| Extraoral Low |
3.8 |
3.4 |
| Extraoral Standard |
5 |
4.5 |
| Extraoral High |
6.6 |
6 |
| Intraoral Standard |
10 |
9 |
| Intraoral High |
15 |
11 - 13 |
| Intraoral Very High |
18+ |
12 - 14 |
back to top
14. What is the difference in time and file size between standard and enhanced resolution for both a size 2 Plate and a Pan Plate?
At standard resolution a size 2 PSP takes 17 seconds and the file is about 1 meg. A Pan Plate takes 25 seconds and the file is 3.6 meg. At the higher resolution, the size 2 PSP takes 34 seconds and the file is about 4 meg. The Pan Plate is 50 seconds and takes about 6.4 meg at the enhanced resolution.
back to top
15. How do I maintain the A/T ScanX?
The A/T ScanX Digital Imaging System is designed for many years of trouble-free operation. Maintenance is minimal.
Turn off the A/T ScanX before cleaning. Wipe the outside surfaces with a paper towel dampened with a disinfectant solution or household, non-abrasive cleaner. DO NOT SPRAY SOLVENTS OR LIQUID DIRECTLY ON THE SCANNER. BE CAREFUL NOT TO ALLOW SOLVENTS TO RUN OR DRIP into the A/T ScanX. This could cause damage to the ScanX. Allow to air dry before plugging in or turning back on.
back to top
16. How do I clean the Phosphor Storage Plates?
PSP's should be handled carefully. For the best images, take care not to scratch them. Keep them dust-free. Use the following procedure to clean PSP's:
- 1. Use lint-free, 100% cotton gauze (not cotton balls). Gently wipe the cotton gauze over the dry Plate surface. Wipe back and forth and then in a circular motion.
- 2. To clean any remaining stains, dampen the gauze in anhydrous ethanol or anhydrous isopropyl alcohol and wipe using the same motion as above.
- 3. Completely dry the surface by wiping with another piece of cotton gauze. Ensure that the PSP is completely dry before use.
To clean the Plate Guides wash them with soap and water and dry thoroughly. Use a non-abrasive cleaner.
back to top
17. How do I disinfect the Phosphor Storage Plates?
There is no reason to routinely disinfect the PSP’s or Plate Guides unless you believe they have been contaminated.
If a PSP has touched a contaminated surface, it may be immersed in a cold sterilant according to sterilant manufacturers directions. DO NOT SOAK OVERNIGHT. 2% Gluteraldehyde solutions will not damage the PSP. PSP’s and Guides MUST NOT be autoclaved. After disinfection, clean the Plate and dry with a dust free cloth.
back to top
18. What is the warranty on the A/T ScanX?
There is a two-year warranty on the A/T ScanX.
A/T ScanX Phosphor Storage Plates will be replaced for a period of 30 days if defective in manufacturing or packaging.
back to top
19. How and when can I get a demonstration?
Please contact your local authorized Air Techniques dealer to set up an appointment for a ScanX demonstration or use our product demonstration form.
back to top |