U.S. Department of Justice 

Office of Justice Programs 

National Institute of Justice 

Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program 

DEC. 07

NIJ Standard– 

0603.01 

Portable X-Ray Systems for Use in 

Bomb Identification 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij 

Office of Justice Programs 

Innovation • Partnerships • Safer Neighborhoods 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov
U.S. Department of Justice 

Office of Justice Programs 

810 Seventh Street N.W. 

Washington, DC 20531 

Michael B. Mukasey 

Attorney General 

Cybele K. Daley 

Acting Assistant Attorney General 

David W. Hagy 

Acting Principal Deputy Director, National Institute of Justice 

This and other publications and products of the National Institute 

of Justice can be found at: 

National Institute of Justice 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij 

Office of Justice Programs 

Innovation • Partnerships • Safer Neighborhoods 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov 
U.S. Department of Justice 

Office of Justice Programs 

National Institute of Justice 

Portable X-Ray Systems for Use in Bomb Identification 

NIJ Standard–0603.01 

Supersedes NILECJ–STD–0603.00, X-Ray Systems for Bomb Disarmament, dated June 1975 

Coordination by: 

Office of Law Enforcement Standards 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Gaithersburg, MD 20899–8102 

Prepared for: 

National Institute of Justice 

Office of Science and Technology 

Washington, DC 20531 

December 2007 

NCJ 218586 
National Institute of Justice 

David W. Hagy 

Acting Principal Deputy Director 

This standard was prepared for the National Institute of Justice, U.S. Department of Justice, by the Office 

of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 

under Interagency Agreement Number IA2003–IJ–R–029, Project No. 06–001. 

This standard was developed under the direction of Nicholas Paulter, Program Manager for Detection, 

Inspection, and Enforcement Technologies, and Kathleen M. Higgins, Director of OLES. 
FOREWORD 

The Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology 

(NIST) furnishes technical support to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) program to support law 

enforcement and criminal justice in the United States. OLES’s function is to develop standards and conduct 

research that will assist law enforcement and criminal justice agencies. 

OLES is: (1) subjecting existing equipment to laboratory testing and evaluation, and (2) conducting research 

leading to the development of several series of documents, including national standards, user guides, and 

technical reports. 

This document covers research conducted by OLES in collaboration with the Police Scientific Development 

Branch in the United Kingdom under the sponsorship of NIJ. Additional reports as well as other documents 

are being issued under the OLES program in the areas of protective clothing and equipment, communications 

systems, emergency equipment, investigative aids, security systems, vehicles, weapons, and analytical 

techniques and standard reference materials used by the forensic community. 

Technical comments and suggestions concerning this guide are invited from all interested parties. They may 

be addressed to the Office of Law Enforcement Standards, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 

100 Bureau Drive, Stop 8102, Gaithersburg, MD 20899−8102. 

David W. Hagy 

Acting Principal Deputy Director, 

National Institute of Justice 

iii 
CONTENTS 

Page 

FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................. iii 

COMMONLY USED SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS........................................................v 

I. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................1 

1.1 Purpose and Scope .........................................................................................................1
 

1.2 Classification .................................................................................................................1 

1.3 Definitions .....................................................................................................................1 

2. REQUIREMENTS..................................................................................................................3 

2.1 Minimum Performance Specifications ..........................................................................3 

2.2 System Requirements.....................................................................................................4 

2.3 Operating Requirements ................................................................................................7 

2.4 Support Requirements....................................................................................................8 

3. TEST METHODS.................................................................................................................10 

3.1 Minimum Performance Specifications ........................................................................10 

3.2 System Requirements...................................................................................................12 

3.3 Operating Requirements ..............................................................................................14 

3.4 Support Requirements..................................................................................................15 

3.5 Standard Test Conditions.............................................................................................16 

3.6 Test Equipment ............................................................................................................16 

3.7 Test Patterns.................................................................................................................17 

4. REFERENCES .....................................................................................................................19 

FIGURES 

Figure 1. Setup for Image Quality Test ........................................................................................11 

Figure 2. Positioning of Radiation Monitor for Leakage Radiation Test .....................................13 

Figure 3. Plan View of the Portable X-Ray Test Pattern..............................................................17 

Figure 4. The Components of the Portable X-Ray Test Pattern ...................................................18 

iv 
COMMONLY USED SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS 

A ampere H henry nm nanometer 

ac alternating current h hour No. number 

AM amplitude modulation hf high frequency o.d. outside diameter 

cd candela Hz hertz Ω ohm 

cm centimeter i.d. inside diameter p. page 

CP chemically pure in inch Pa pascal 

c/s cycle per second IR infrared pe probable error 

D day J joule pp. pages 

dB decibel L lambert ppm parts per million 

dc direct current L liter qt quart 

°C degree Celsius lb pound rad radian 

°F degree Fahrenheit lbf pound-force rf radio frequency 

dia diameter lbfin pound-force inch rh relative humidity 

emf electromotive force lm lumen s second 

eq equation ln logarithm (base e) SD standard deviation 

F farad log logarithm (base 10) sec. section 

fc footcandle M molar Sv sievert 

fig. figure m meter SWR standing wave ratio 

FM frequency modulation min minute uhf ultrahigh frequency 

ft foot mm millimeter UV ultraviolet 

ft/s foot per second mph mile per hour V volt 

g acceleration m/s meter per second vhf very high frequency 

g gram mSv millisievert W watt 

gr grain N newton λ wavelength 

Nm newton meter wt weight 

area=unit2 (e.g., ft2

, in2, etc.); volume=unit3 (e.g., ft3, m3, etc.) 

PREFIXES COMMON CONVERSIONS 

(See ASTM E380) 

d deci (10-1) da deka (10) 0.30480 m =1 ft 4.448222 N = 1 lbf 

c centi (10-2) h hecto (102

) 25.4 mm = 1 in 1.355818 J = 1 ftlbf 

m milli (10-3) k kilo (103

) 0.4535924 kg = 1 lb 0.1129848 Nm = 1 lbfin 

μ micro (10-6) M mega (106

) 0.06479891 g = 1 gr 14.59390 N/m = 1 lbf/ft 

n nano (10-9) G giga (109

) 0.9463529 L = 1 qt 6894.757 Pa = 1 lbf/in2 

p pico (10-12) T tera (1012) 3600000 J = 1 kWhr 1.609344 km/h = 1 mph 

Temperature: T°C = (T°F-32)×5/9 

Temperature: T°F = (T°C×9/5)+32 

v 

NIJ Standard–0603.01 

NIJ STANDARD FOR PORTABLE X-RAY SYSTEMS 

FOR USE IN BOMB IDENTIFICATION 

1. INTRODUCTION 

1.1 Purpose and Scope 

The purpose of this standard is to establish performance requirements and testing methods for 

portable x-ray systems for use in bomb disarming operations. This standard does not apply to 

cabinet x-ray systems, such as those used for security screening. 

1.2 Classification 

1.2.1 Type I. Battery Powered Portable X-Ray Systems 

A portable x-ray system entirely powered by low-voltage batteries. 

1.2.2 Type II. Optional Powered Portable X-Ray Systems 

Portable x-ray systems for which the operator can select either low-voltage battery or AC-mains 

powered operation. 

1.3 Definitions 

Comprises all the component units used in the production, capture, display, and storage of an xray image. All defined terms are presented in italics within this document. 

1.3.1 Anode 

The positive electrode/terminal of an electrical device. In x-ray tubes, the anode is typically 

made of tungsten and produces x-rays when bombarded by high energy electrons. 

1.3.2 Aperture 

The surface on the x-ray generator module from which the useful x-ray beam exits and which is 

in a plane normal to the beam direction. 

1.3.3 Control and Display Unit 

The component of the portable x-ray system that enables the operator to activate and control xray generation and display the images obtained with the image capture unit. Typical methods 

currently used for image display include instant-print film, cathode-ray tubes, and flat panel 

displays. 

1 
1.3.4 Exposure 

For radiation protection purposes, exposure to ionizing radiation is measured as dose equivalent. 

This is defined as the amount of any type of radiation that, when absorbed in a biological system, 

results in the same biological effect as one unit of absorbed dose delivered in the form of lowlinear-energy transfer radiation. The unit of dose equivalent is the sievert (Sv). 

1.3.5 Field of View 

The horizontal and vertical extent of the target plane that is to be imaged. 

1.3.6 Image Acquisition Period 

The interval required to capture (or expose) the image and then to display (or process) the image. 

The image acquisition period does not include the time required to retrieve the film from the 

image capture unit and then convey the film to the control and display unit. 

1.3.7 Image Capture Unit 

The component of the portable x-ray system that is used to acquire the x-ray image. Typical 

methods currently used include film and solid-state digital imaging arrays. 

1.3.8 Portable X-Ray System 

A man-portable self-contained x-ray system used to acquire images for bomb diagnostics and 

render safe procedures. The portable x-ray system comprises the x-ray generator module, the 

image capture unit, and the control and display unit. 

1.3.9 Radiation, Ionizing 

Any electromagnetic or particulate radiation capable of producing ions, directly or indirectly, by 

interaction with matter. 

1.3.10 Radiation, Leakage 

All ionizing radiation, except the useful beam, coming from an x-ray generator module. 

1.3.11 Radiation, Primary 

Ionizing radiation coming directly from an x-ray tube anode and passing through the aperture. 

1.3.12 Radiation, Scattered 

Ionizing radiation that, during passage through matter, has been deviated in direction and usually 

has had its energy diminished. 

1.3.13 Target 

An object that is imaged by the portable x-ray system. The target can also be a test pattern. 

2 
1.3.14 Target Plane 

The plane (imaginary flat surface) extending vertically and horizontally from the center of the 

target. The target plane is perpendicular to the direction of the x-ray beam. 

1.3.15 Useful X-Ray Beam 

That part of the primary and scattered radiation, which passes through an aperture, cone, or 

other collimating device. 

1.3.16 X-Ray Generator Module 

That part of a portable x-ray system comprising the x-ray tube, shielding material, any 

permanently attached devices (collimators) used to restrict the field of the useful x-ray beam, and 

the high-voltage power supply. The x-ray tube is often a field-replaceable component. 

1.3.17 X-Ray Output Power 

The power output of the x-ray generator module, expressed as either the number of pulses for a 

pulsed x-ray generator or the combined values of kV and mA for a continuous-wave x-ray 

generator. 

2. REQUIREMENTS 

2.1 Minimum Performance Specifications 

The specifications listed in this section are those directly relating to the function of the portable 

x-ray system, which is to provide x-ray images. 

2.1.1 Image Quality 

The portable x-ray system shall be able to fully resolve the copper resolution grids (see figure 3, 

lower left corner and upper right corner, pattern containing copper wires) and be capable of 

permitting all of the 33 AWG tungsten wires of the test pattern behind 10 mm (0.4 in) of steel to 

be seen. The lead corner pieces of the test pattern shall also be clearly visible when tested in 

accordance with the image quality test of section 3.1.1. 

2.1.2 Field of View 

The x-ray generator module of the portable x-ray system shall be capable of providing an 

exposure area of at least 39.1 cm vertical by 39.1 cm horizontal (15.4 in vertical x 15.4 in 

horizontal) at a source-to-target distance of 59 cm ± 5 cm (24 in ± 2 in), and the exposure area 

shall meet the requirements of section 2.1.1 as tested per section 3.1.1. 

2.1.3 Image Acquisition Period 

The image acquisition period shall not exceed 240 s. 

3 
2.1.4 Image Extent 

The image capture unit shall be capable of providing image information to within 12 mm or less 

of the surface on which it is placed with no degradation of image quality, as defined in section 

2.1.1, over the entire surface of the image. 

2.2 System Requirements 

The requirements listed in this section affect the functional performance or use of the instrument. 

2.2.1 Safety 

2.2.1.1 Leakage Radiation 

The average exposure of leakage radiation from the x-ray generator shall not exceed 1 mSv in 

any 1 h period of operation, when measured in accordance with the leakage radiation test of 

section 3.2.1.1. 

2.2.1.2 Electrical Safety 

The portable x-ray system shall meet the applicable requirements of UL 61010A–1, as amended; 

and/or IEC 61010–1, as amended, IEC 60601–2–7, as amended, and IEC 60601–2–28, as 

amended. 

2.2.2 Electromagnetic Compatibility 

The equipment shall meet the applicable requirements for susceptibility to interference from 

electromagnetic radiation and for emission of electromagnetic interference. 

2.2.2.1 Emissions 

2.2.2.1.1 Radiated Emission 

The portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, shall meet the 

requirements of 47 CFR Part 18, as amended, and/or CISPR 11, as amended. 

2.2.2.2 Susceptibility 

The x-ray generator module is not subject to the requirements of susceptibility. 

2.2.2.2.1 Radiated Susceptibility, Electrostatic Discharge 

The portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, shall not 

malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–2, as amended, and using the test 

specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended, for contact discharge. 

4 
2.2.2.2.2 Radiated Susceptibility, RF Emissions 

The portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, shall not 

malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–3, as amended, and using the test 

specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended. 

2.2.2.2.3 Radiated Susceptibility, Electrical Fast Transient/Burst 

The portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, shall not 

malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–4, as amended, and using the test 

specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended 

2.2.2.2.4 Conducted Susceptibility, Radio Frequency Common Mode 

If applicable, the portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, 

shall not malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–6, as amended, and using the 

test specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended. 

2.2.2.2.5 Conducted Susceptibility, Surges 

If applicable, the portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, 

shall not malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–5, as amended, and using the 

test specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended. 

2.2.2.2.6 Conducted Susceptibility, Power Frequency Common Mode 

If applicable, the portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, 

shall not malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–8, as amended, and using the 

test specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended. 

2.2.2.2.7 Conducted Susceptibility, Voltage Dips and Interruptions 

If applicable, the portable x-ray system, when adjusted to meet the requirements of section 2.1, 

shall not malfunction when tested in accordance with IEC 61000–4–11, as amended, and using 

the test specifications given in IEC 61000–6–1, as amended. 

2.2.3 Power 

Battery-powered portable x-ray systems shall meet the image quality requirement of section 

2.1.1 when tested in accordance with the image quality test of section 3.1.1. 

All batteries used in the portable x-ray system shall be of a type that are easily replaced or 

recharged. 

5 
2.2.4 Ruggedness 

2.2.4.1 Bump 

The portable x-ray system shall meet the leakage radiation requirement of section 2.2.1.1 and the 

image quality requirements of section 2.1.1 after being tested in accordance with the 

requirements of IEC 60068–2–29, 1987, as amended, using 100 bumps applied to each of the six 

sides (top, bottom, left, right, front, and back) of each component of the portable x-ray system 

with each bump having a nominal peak acceleration of 15 g (150 m/s2

) and a nominal pulse 

duration of 6 ms. 

2.2.4.2 Drop 

The portable x-ray system shall meet the leakage radiation requirement of section 2.2.1.1 and the 

image quality requirements of section 2.1.1 after each component (x-ray generator module, 

image capture unit, and control and display unit), properly contained within its transport case, 

has been tested in accordance with the requirements of IEC 68–2–32 Procedure 1, 1975, for each 

face and corner of the component when contained within its transport case and a fall height of 

0.3 m ± 0.03 m. 

2.2.5 Environmental Requirements 

2.2.5.1 Temperature Stability and Range 

The portable x-ray system shall operate over the ambient temperature range of at least -18 °C to 

43.5 °C (0 °F to 110 °F). The portable x-ray system shall be tested in accordance with MIL– 

STD–810F Method 501.4, as amended, Procedure II, at 43.5 °C ± 3 °C (110 °F ± 5.4 °F) after 

being exposed to that temperature continuously for 24 h ± 1 h. The portable x-ray system then 

shall be cooled to -18 °C ± 3 °C (0 °F ± 5.4 °F) within 4 h ± 0.5 h and tested in accordance with 

MIL–STD–810F Method 502.4, as amended, Procedure II, at -18 °C ± 3 °C (0 °F ± 5.4 °F) after 

being exposed to that temperature continuously for 24 h ± 1 h. 

2.2.5.2 Relative Humidity Stability and Range 

The detector shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of MIL–STD–810F Method 

507.4, Procedure III, 10 cycles, as amended. 

2.2.5.3 Environmental Protection 

The portable x-ray system shall meet or exceed the requirements for compliance with IEC 

60529, as amended, classification IP54. 

The portable x-ray system shall meet the leakage radiation requirement of section 2.2.1.1 and the 

image quality requirements of section 2.1.1 after being subjected to temperature and relative 

humidity in accordance with the environmental tests of section 3.2.5. 

6 
2.2.6 Tripod Support 

The x-ray generator module shall be capable of being affixed to a photographer’s tripod having a 

1⁄4-20 UNC (1⁄4 in BSW) thread mount. 

2.3 Operating Requirements 

The requirements listed in this section affect how the portable x-ray system is operated and do 

not affect its functional performance. 

2.3.1 Remote Control and Viewing 

The portable x-ray system shall have an activation device that permits the generation of x-rays 

only when actuated by the operator. The activation device and any image-viewing screen shall 

both be remotely operable at a location that is greater than 6 m (20 ft) from the generator. 

2.3.2 Exposure Control 

Portable x-ray systems that utilize sensitized media to record images shall be key activated to 

prevent unintended or accidental exposure of the media. The portable x-ray system shall be 

designed so that it cannot operate without the interlocking key and so that the interlocking key 

cannot be removed while the portable x-ray system is operating. 

2.3.2.1 Exposure Delay 

The portable x-ray system shall have a means by which the operator can delay the exposure by at 

least 1 min from the instant of activation. 

2.3.3 Indicators 

2.3.3.1 X-Ray Emission Warning Alarm 

2.3.3.1.1 Audible Alarm 

The x-ray generator module shall have an audible warning device that indicates when it is 

powered and in a state of readiness to emit radiation, when and if the timer of the exposure delay 

(see sec. 2.3.2.1) has been activated and is in a state of counting down to emission, and when it is 

emitting radiation. The audible alarm for these three states shall be distinguishable. The audible 

indicator shall produce an alarm-state sound pressure level (SPL) of 85 dBSPL ± 5 dBSPL at a 

distance of 80 cm (31 in) from the detector as measured in accordance with the audible alarm test 

of section 3.3.3.1.1. 

2.3.3.1.2 Visual Alarm 

The x-ray generator module shall have a visual warning device that indicates when it is powered 

and in a state of readiness to emit radiation, when and if the timer of the exposure delay (see sec. 

2.3.2.1) has been activated and is in a state of counting down to emission, and when it is emitting 

radiation. The visual alarm for these three states shall be distinguishable. The visual indicator 

7 
shall be readily observable when tested in accordance with the visual alarm test of section 

3.3.3.1.2. The visual indication on the x-ray generator module shall be the same as when 

operated remotely via computer control. 

2.3.3.2 Control Software 

2.3.3.2.1 Exposure Control 

The control software shall not allow the operator to adjust the x-ray output power to a value less 

than the minimum operational requirement for a given pairing of x-ray generator module and 

image capture unit. 

2.3.3.2.2 Countdown Alarm 

The control and display unit either shall provide a countdown alarm that emulates that provided 

by the x-ray generator module when it is operated in manual mode or shall not affect the alarm 

indications on the x-ray generator module when operated remotely via the control and display 

unit. 

2.3.4 Portability 

The entire portable x-ray system, including carrying cases and any required battery charger shall 

have a total weight less than 50 kg (110 lb). The maximum weight of any one component of the 

portable x-ray system shall be less than 16 kg (35 lb). 

2.3.5 Switch Size 

Any switch or push button on the x-ray generator module shall have a contact area of at least 5 

mm by 5 mm or a diameter of at least 5 mm. 

2.3.6 Power-On Delay 

The x-ray generator module, when controlled remotely via the control and display unit, shall 

have a minimum delay of 60 s between the time the power switch on the x-ray generator module 

is toggled to the on position and the time the x-ray generator module becomes powered. 

2.4 Support Requirements 

The requirements listed in this section ensure that support of the portable x-ray system is 

provided by the manufacturer. 

2.4.1 Manufacturer-Provided Equipment 

The manufacturer shall supply any adapters or unique test equipment required to test the 

portable x-ray system. Such equipment shall remain the property of the supplier and be returned 

upon completion of testing unless other agreements are made. 

8 
2.4.1.1 Battery Tester 

The manufacturer shall provide an instrument for testing the status of the batteries used in the 

portable x-ray system. 

2.4.2 Manufacturer-Provided Information 

A printed operators’ manual shall be provided by the manufacturer or distributor with each 

portable x-ray system. This manual shall clearly state, in English, the instructions for the 

interconnection, checkout, operation, and maintenance of the complete portable x-ray system and 

shall: 

•	 Inform the user concerning government regulations and industry standards applicable to the 

operation of portable x-ray systems in the country where the system is to be sold. 

•	 Inform the user of the need for proper training and supervision in the use of portable x-ray 

systems and discuss the hazards involved in improper use. 

•	 Describe the appropriate personnel radiation monitoring devices for use with the portable xray system. Such instructions may include references to specific commercially available 

monitoring devices, and shall include a description of the radiation encountered and how the 

radiation should be measured. 

•	 Provide information relative to optimizing the imaging of objects, such as collimator, 

settings, and use of grids. 

•	 List recommended aperture-to-object distances for various object sizes. 

•	 List recommended exposure settings for these recommended distances and various types of 

objects (such as pipe bombs, shoebox bombs, etc.). 

•	 Provide recommended distances between the aperture and the image capture unit to ensure 

full exposure of the active area of the image capture unit. 

•	 Provide typically safe distances from and in front of the aperture in open-air conditions. 

•	 State the approximate operational time before battery replacement or recharging is necessary 

for the x-ray generator module when the maximum x-ray output power is selected and for the 

digital image capture unit, if used. 

•	 If the x-ray tube is capable of being changed in the field, state the tools necessary to enable 

this. 

•	 Provide an indication of the recommended extremes of operating and storage temperatures. 

9 
•	 If the portable x-ray system has the ability to use a wireless link for control purposes, it shall 

be stated that the rf wireless system may be subject to electromagnetic interference, which 

may cause the x-ray source to emit accidentally. 

•	 The manufacturer shall provide information indicating the allowed pairings of x-ray 

generator module and image capture unit and information specific to those pairings, such as 

the minimum x-ray output power that will allow the portable x-ray system to operate. 

2.4.3 Manufacturer Labeling 

•	 The housing containing the control and display unit shall be labeled in a prominent position 

with the following directive: "Activate only when at least 6 m (20 ft) behind the x-ray 

generator module." 

•	 The x-ray generator module should be labeled on two external sides with the radiation 

symbol designated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission in 10 CFR 20.1901 and with 

words to the effect, "Caution, x-ray system activated when light is on." 

•	 The control and display unit of the portable x-ray system shall be permanently marked with 

the functions and setting of all switches, controls, and displays. It shall not be possible to set 

the controls to a functional mode of operation that is not explained in the user manual. Every 

control shall be labeled, and the labeling shall, at a minimum, be consistent with one of the 

functions of the control. 

2.4.4 Accessibility of X-Ray Generator Tube 

If the x-ray generator tube is readily replaceable in the field, replacement should be achievable 

with simple manual tools or by using a manufacturer-provided tool kit. 

3. TEST METHODS 

3.1 Minimum Performance Specifications 

3.1.1 Image Quality Test 

Using the test pattern shown in figures 3 and 4, place the test pattern 10 mm ± 3 mm (0.39 in ± 

0.12 in) from the image capture unit, as shown in figure 1. The alignment of the center of the test 

pattern to the center of the image capture unit shall be within ± 2 mm horizontally and ± 2 mm 

vertically. The front surface of the image capture unit and the target plane shall be parallel 

within ± 2 o vertically and ± 2 o horizontally. 

10 
10 mm 

Image Capture Unit Test Pattern 

X-Ray Generator Module 

Figure 1. Setup for Image Quality Test 

Place the x-ray generator module so that its output aperture is at the distance from the test 

pattern recommended in the operator’s manual for exposing the entire image capture unit. 

Irradiate the test pattern according to the manufacturer’s instructions and produce a total of five 

consecutive images. 

For each image, the tungsten loops located at the top left and bottom right of the test piece, 

behind the 10 mm ± 1 mm (0.4 in ± .04 in) steel block, shall be visible. The four lead corners 

shall also be visible and the copper gratings located at the bottom right and top left of the test 

piece shall also be resolved in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The tungsten and 

copper loops located behind the 10 mm ± 1 mm (0.4 in ± .04 in) thick portion of the step wedge 

shall be visible. 

3.1.2 Field of View Test 

Orient nine test patterns to form a 3x3 array that is nominally 480 mm high (vertical direction) 

and nominally 660 mm wide (horizontal direction). Position the x-ray generator module so that 

its output aperture is 59 cm ± 5 cm (24 in ± 2 in) from the target plane of this array of test 

patterns and is aligned to the middle (both horizontally and vertically) test pattern as described in 

section 3.1.1. Acquire the image and ensure it meets the requirements of section 2.1.1. 

3.1.3 Image Acquisition Period Test 

The image acquisition period may comprise more than one discrete activity. For example, in the 

case requiring conveyance of a physical artifact (the film) from the image capture unit after 

exposure to the control and display unit for processing, there are two activities, exposure and 

processing. The image acquisition period is the sum of all discrete activities excluding 

11 
conveyance or preparation. The duration of each activity is determined by using either an 

external timer or clock. 

3.1.3.1 Procedure 

Reset the timer or record the time indicated on the clock and within 2 s start the activity. Record 

this time as t0,i, where i denotes the ith activity. If a timer is used, t0,i = 0. When this activity is 

completed, within 2 s record the elapsed time indicated on the timer or the time indicated on the 

clock. Record this time as tf,i. The image acquisition period is determined using: 

N 

∑ (t − t f ,i 0,i ), i=1 

where N is the number of activities. 

3.1.4 Image Extent 

Position the image capture unit, x-ray generator module, and test pattern so that x-rays passing 

through the test pattern will impinge on the image capture unit down to the surface on which it is 

placed. Test the image quality as specified in Sec. 3.1.1 and verify that the image quality is 

uniform to within 12 mm of the edge on which the image capture unit was placed to acquire the 

image. 

3.2 System Requirements 

3.2.1 Safety 

3.2.1.1 Leakage Radiation Test 

Warning: Due to the radiation hazard, this test should be performed by a qualified person who 

has the knowledge and training to safely measure ionizing radiation. Guidance relating to the 

competence of an individual to discharge the responsibilities of a qualified expert may be 

obtained from the American Board of Health Physics, the American Board of Radiology, or the 

American Board of Industrial Hygiene. In the United Kingdom this information may be obtained 

by contacting the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB). 

Before measurements are taken the radiation aperture shall be covered by a lead plate, at least 

3 mm thick, to prevent radiation emanating from the focal point. The x-ray leakage test is 

performed by measuring the leakage dose rate at the following nine locations (see fig. 2) relative 

to the x-ray generator module axis (the axis passing through the x-ray generator module that is 

collinear with the useful x-ray beam): 

1 m ± 5 mm (39 in ± 0.2 in) above, below, to the left, and to the right of the x-ray 

generator module axis, where each location is in the plane of the aperture ± 10 mm 

(± 0.4 in) and angularly separated from each other in the plane of the aperture by 90 o ± 

10 °; 1 m ± 5 mm (39 in ± 0.2 in) above, below, to the left, and to the right of the x-ray 

generator module axis, where each location is in the plane of the anode ± 10 mm 

12 
(± 0.4 in) and angularly separated from each other in the plane of the anode by 90 o 

± 10 o; and at the rear of the x-ray generator module, collinear with the axis of the x-ray 

generator module, and separated from the x-ray generator module by no more than 

10 mm. 

Front 

Aperture 

Aperture plane 

Anode plane 

Rear 

Figure 2. Positioning of Radiation Monitor for Leakage Radiation Test 

The test will be performed with the maximum voltage setting for the x-ray and with fully 

charged batteries. 

The manufacturer shall provide certification from an accredited testing laboratory that the 

portable x-ray system complies with the requirements of section 2.2.1.2. 

The manufacturer shall provide certification from an accredited testing laboratory that the 

portable x-ray system complies with the requirements of section 2.2.2. 

3.2.2 Electromagnetic Compatibility 

3.2.1.2 Electrical Safety 

3.2.3 Power Test 

Install new or fully charged batteries of the type specified by the manufacturer. Operate the 

portable x-ray system, repeating the image quality test of section 3.1.1 every 10 min. The 

portable x-ray system must meet the image quality requirements of section 2.2.3 until the system 

indicates that a new battery is required. 

13 
For type II portable x-ray system capable of operating from AC supply, connect the system to the 

supply and perform the image quality test of section 3.1.1. 

3.2.4 Ruggedness 

The manufacturer shall provide certification from an accredited testing laboratory that the 

portable x-ray system complies with the requirements of section 2.2.4. 

3.2.5 Environmental Requirements Tests 

The manufacturer shall provide certification from an accredited testing laboratory that the 

portable x-ray system complies with the requirements of section 2.2.5. 

3.2.6 Tripod Support 

Attach x-ray generator module to a typical tripod support, 1⁄4-20 UNC (1⁄4 in BSW). 

3.3 Operating Requirements 

3.3.1 Remote Control and Viewing 

Ensure that the activation device can be used at least 6 m (20 ft) from the generator. 

3.3.2 Exposure 

3.3.2.1 Exposure Control 

Ensure that the interlocking key cannot be removed while the system is operating and producing 

x-rays. 

3.3.2.2 Exposure Delay 

Activate the portable x-ray system and delay the exposure time by 1 min. 

3.3.3 Indicators 

3.3.3.1 X-Ray Emission Warning Alarms 

3.3.3.1.1 Audible Alarm 

Perform the test in an anechoic chamber or at an outdoor location, at least 6 m (20 ft) from any 

large object, where the ambient sound pressure level at the time of the test is not more than 53 

dBSPL. Position the sound pressure level (SPL) meter microphone 800 mm (31 in) from the x-ray 

generator module. Measure the sound pressure level when the x-ray generator module is in a 

state of readiness to emit radiation, when the radiation is about to be emitted, and when radiation 

is being emitted. 

14 
Position the generator with its visual alarm indicator at 6 m (20 ft) from an observer at a test site 

where the ambient illumination is 10,000 lux ± 1,000 lux. After allowing 3 min for eye 

accommodation, turn on the portable x-ray system and observe the alarm indication. Observe the 

visual alarm when the x-ray generator module is in a state of readiness to emit radiation, when 

the radiation is about to be emitted, and when radiation is being emitted. 

3.3.3.2 Control Software 

Operate the software and verify that it performs per specifications. 

3.3.4 Portability 

Weigh the individual components of the portable x-ray system including carrying cases. 

3.3.5 Switch Size 

Measure the size of the switch and verify that it is within specifications. 

3.3.6 Power-On Delay 

Connect the x-ray generator module to the control and display unit. Set the x-ray generator 

module to emit using the control and display unit. Turn the x-ray generator module power 

switch to on and either record the time the switch was activated as t0 or trigger a stopwatch to 

start counting. Note the time the x-ray generator module power indicator light is illuminated and 

either note this time as t1 or trigger the stopwatch to stop counting. The power-on delay is either 

computed as t1 - t0 or is read directly from the stopwatch. 

3.4 Support Requirements 

3.4.1 Manufacturer Provided Equipment 

Verify that any adapters and unique test equipment have been provided by the manufacturer. 

3.4.1.1 Battery Tester 

Verify that the manufacturer has supplied a battery tester and that it is working properly by 

comparing its readings when testing a fully charged battery. 

3.4.2 Manufacturer Provided Information 

Review the instructions of and examine the markings on the controls of the portable x-ray 

system to verify that the controls operate as explained in the manual and consistent with their 

markings. 

3.4.3 Manufacturer Labeling 

While it is impossible for this test to be exhaustive, the test engineer shall look for: 

15 

3.3.3.1.2 Visual Alarm 

(a) Controls that are unmarked or that are marked in a misleading way. 
(b) Modes of operation that are not documented. 

(c) Misleading labels appearing in an alphanumeric display. 

(d) Lack of clarity in the manual, including possible typographical errors. 

No misleading words are permitted on the control and display unit, or in the manual. If an 

undocumented mode can be accessed, such as an engineering test mode for instance, the 

resulting display shall be clearly different from the display in the normal operational mode. 

3.4.4 Accessibility of X-Ray Generator Tube 

If the generator tube is capable of being replaced in the field, remove it and replace it using 

manufacturer-recommended or supplied tools. 

3.5 Standard Test Conditions 

3.5.1 Standard Temperature 

Unless specified otherwise, at the time of the tests, the ambient temperature shall be 20 °C ± 

2 °C (68 °F ± 4 °F). 

3.5.2 Standard Humidity 

Unless specified otherwise, at the time of the tests, the relative humidity shall be between 30 % 

and 70 %. 

3.5.3 Battery Charge 

Before beginning a test sequence, install new or recently/fully recharged batteries where 

appropriate. 

3.6 Test Equipment 

3.6.1 Background Dose Meter 

The meter shall be capable of measuring doses from 100 μSv to 1 Sv with an uncertainty of less 

than ± 10 % of the measured value. The useful energy response of the meter shall be 

commensurate with the energy output of the x-ray generator module. 

The cross-sectional area of the detection sensitive volume shall not exceed 100 cm2

 with no 

more than 10 cm in any linear dimension. 

3.6.2 Test Pattern 

The basis of the test pattern shall be a 220 mm x 160 mm x 6 mm sheet of acrylic, see figure 4. 

Affixed to this sheet shall be: 

• 2 steel blocks of 30 mm x 30 mm x 10 mm. 

16 
•	 4 L-shaped corner pieces, fabricated from lead and of dimension 25 mm arm length, 3 mm 

width. 

•	 8 loops of 33 AWG (US) / 37 SWG (UK) tungsten wire, 6 loops of 25 AWG (US) / 26 SWG 

(UK) copper wire and 6 loops of 29 AWG (US) / 30 SWG (UK) copper wire. 

•	 16 straight sections of 25 AWG (US) / 26 SWG (UK) copper wire. 

•	 1 steel step wedge. 

All elements shall be fabricated and arranged as shown in figures 3 and 4. 

3.6.3 Sound Level Meter 

The sound pressure level meter shall comply with ANSI S.1.4, 1983, American National 

Standards Institute, Specifications for General Purpose Sound Level Meters, for type 2, Aweighting, reference pressure 20 μPa. 

3.7 Test Patterns 

Unless otherwise stated, tolerances are: ±0.1 mm 

of epoxy adhesive 

wire loop 

block 

6 mm acrylic 

sheet e.g. 

Lucite, Perspex 

220 mm 

214 mm 

135 mm 

110 mm 

200 mm 

160 mm 

80 mm 

140 mm 

6 mm 

±0.5 mm 

±0.5 mm 

20 mm ±0.5 mm 

20 mm 

±0.5 mm 

±0.5 mm 

8 x 25 AWG (US) or 26 

31 mm 

20 mm 

31 mm 

20 mm 

Corner 

piece Corner 

piece 

Corner 

Corner 

piece 

Tungsten 

secured on 

acrylic sheet 

behind steel 

Tungsten wire loop 

secured on 

85 mm Steel block, 30 x 30 x 10 

mm secured in cutout in 

acrylic sheet by means 

±0.5 mm 

±0.5 mm 

Steel block, 30 x 30 x 10 

mm secured in cutout in 

acrylic sheet by means SWG (UK) Copper of epoxy adhesive wire, 1 mm spacing 

from central axis o (i.e. f 

wire to central axis of piece acrylic sheet with next wire is 1 mm.	 Step wedge secured over 50 x 120 mm cyanoacrylate Secured at ends with	 cutout in acrylic sheet by 6 x 3 mm screws adhesive 3 spots epoxy adhesive	 or similar maximum 

Figure 3. Plan View of the Portable X-Ray Test Pattern 

17 
4 

Unless otherwise stated, tolerances are: ±0.1 mm 

Corner piece 

2.5 ± 0.5 mm lead 

3 ± 0.5 

3 ± 0.5 

Tolerance on 

corner angle 

25 

± 0.5 

± 0.5 

± 

25 

Wire loop 

33 AWG (US) or 37 SWG (UK) Tungsten 8 off 

25 AWG (US) or 26 SWG (UK) Copper 6 off 

29 AWG (US) or 30 SWG (UK) Copper 6 off 

9 mm 11 mm 

diamete diamete 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

20 

40 

60 

80 

60 

45 

30 

Tolerance on 

15 

60 

60 

50 

50 

30 

30 

loop positions 

is ± 0.5 

Step Wedge 

Mild Steel 

1 

120m 

6 x holes drilled through and 

taped M3 to take securing 

screws (M3 x 8 mm steel 

head or similar) 

6 x 29 AWG (US) or 30 SWG (UK) Copper wire loops 

6 x 25 AWG (US) or 26 SWG (UK) Copper wire loops 

6 x Tungsten wire loops secured to back 

of step wedge by means of max 3 spots 

cyanoacrylate adhesive 

Figure 4. The Components of the Portable X-Ray Test Pattern 

18 
4. REFERENCES 

ANSI S.1.4, 1983, American National Standards Institute, Specifications for General Purposes 

Sound Level Meters. 

CISPR 11, Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) Radio-Frequency Equipment - 

Electromagnetic Disturbance Characteristics - Limits and Methods of Measurement. 

IEC 60068–2–29, International Electrotechnical Commission, Basic Environmental Testing 

Procedures - Part 2: Tests - Test Eb and Guidance: Bump. 

IEC 60068–2–32, International Electrotechnical Commission, Basic Environmental Testing 

Procedures - Part 2: Tests - Test Ed: Free Fall. 

IEC 61000–4–2, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 2: Electrostatic Discharge 

Immunity Test - Basic EMC Publication. 

IEC 61000–4–3, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 3: Radiated, Radio-Frequency, 

Electromagnetic Field Immunity Test. 

IEC 61000–4–4, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 4: Electrical Fast 

Transient/Burst Immunity Test - Basic EMC Publication. 

IEC 61000–4–5, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 5: Surge Immunity Test. 

IEC 61000–4–6, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 6: Immunity to Conducted 

Disturbances, Induced by Radio Frequency Fields. 

IEC 61000–4–8, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 8: Power Frequency Magnetic 

Field Immunity Test - Basic EMC Publication. 

IEC 61000–4–11, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques - Section 11: Voltage Dips, Short 

Interruptions and Voltage Variations Immunity Tests. 

IEC 61000–6–1, International Electrotechnical Commission, Electromagnetic Compatibility 

(EMC) - Part 6–1: Generic Standards - Immunity for Residential, Commercial and LightIndustrial Environments. 

IEC 60601–2–7, International Electrotechnical Commission, Medical Electrical Equipment -

Part 2–7: Particular Requirements for the Safety of High-Voltage Generators of Diagnostic XRay Generators. 

19 
IEC 60601–2–28, International Electrotechnical Commission, Medical Electrical Equipment -

Part 2: Particular Requirements for the Safety of X-Ray Source Assemblies and X-Ray Tube 

Assemblies for Medical Diagnosis. 

IEC 61010–1, International Electrotechnical Commission, Safety Requirements for Electrical 

Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use - Part 1: General Requirements. 

MIL–STD–810F Method 501.4, Military Standard, Test Method Standard for Environmental 

Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests, Method 501.4, High Temperature. 

MIL–STD–810F Method 502.4, Military Standard, Test Method Standard for Environmental 

Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests, Method 502.4, Low Temperature. 

MIL–STD–810F Method 507.4, Military Standard, Test Method Standard for Environmental 

Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests, Method 507.4, Humidity. 

UL 61010A–1 Underwriters Laboratories, Electrical Equipment for Laboratory Use, Part: 1 

General Requirements. 

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 20.1901. 

U.S. Federal Communications Commission, Title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 18. 

20 
About the Law Enforcement and Corrections 

Standards and Testing Program 

The Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program is sponsored by the Office of 

Science and Technology of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), U.S. Department of Justice. 

The program responds to the mandate of the Justice System Improvement Act of 1979, which 

directed NIJ to encourage research and development to improve the criminal justice system and 

to disseminate the results to Federal, State, and local agencies. 

The Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program is an applied research effort 

that determines the technological needs of justice system agencies, sets minimum performance 

standards for specific devices, tests commercially available equipment against those standards, and 

disseminates the standards and the test results to criminal justice agencies nationally and 

internationally. 

The program operates through: 

The Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Advisory Council (LECTAC), consisting of 

nationally recognized criminal justice practitioners from Federal, State, and local agencies, which 

assesses technological needs and sets priorities for research programs and items to be evaluated 

and tested. 

The Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES) at the National Institute of Standards and 

Technology, which develops voluntary national performance standards for compliance testing to 

ensure that individual items of equipment are suitable for use by criminal justice agencies. The 

standards are based upon laboratory testing and evaluation of representative samples of each 

item of equipment to determine the key attributes, develop test methods, and establish minimum 

performance requirements for each essential attribute. In addition to the highly technical standards, 

OLES also produces technical reports and user guidelines that explain in nontechnical terms the 

capabilities of available equipment. 

The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC), operated by a 

grantee, which supervises a national compliance testing program conducted by independent 

laboratories. The standards developed by OLES serve as performance benchmarks against which 

commercial equipment is measured. The facilities, personnel, and testing capabilities of the independent laboratories are evaluated by OLES prior to testing each item of equipment, and OLES 

helps the NLECTC staff review and analyze data. Test results are published in Equipment Performance Reports designed to help justice system procurement officials make informed 

purchasing decisions. 

Publications are available at no charge through the National Law Enforcement and Corrections 

Technology Center. Some documents are also available online through the Internet/World Wide 

Web. To request a document or additional information, call 800–248–2742 or 301–519–5060, or write: 

National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center 

2277 Research Boulevard, Mail Stop 8J 

Rockville, MD 20850 

E-Mail: asknlectc@nlectc.org 

World Wide Web address: http://www.nlectc.org 

This document is not intended to create, does not create, and may not be 

relied upon to create any rights, substantive or procedural, enforceable at 

law by any party in any matter civil or 

criminal. 

Opinions or points of view expressed in 

this document represent a consensus 

of the authors and do not represent the 

official position or policies of the U.S. 

Department of Justice. The products 

and manufacturers discussed in this 

document are presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement 

by the U.S. Department of Justice. 

The National Institute of Justice is a 

component of the Office of Justice 

Programs, which also includes the 

Bureau of Justice Assistance; the 

Bureau of Justice Statistics; the 

Community Capacity Development 

Office; the Office for Victims of Crime; 

the Office of Juvenile Justice and 

Delinquency Prevention; and the 

Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, 

Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, 

and Tracking (SMART).