Cheap or older equipment used by a cut-rate center will be of no value to you and could deliver false positives. A dedicated, experienced technician specially trained in mammography must perform the screening, and an experienced radiologist must read and interpret mammogram results. Similarly, an X-ray technician student is not a suitable person to perform the mammography. For the mammogram to be as accurate as possible, there must be maximum compression on the breast during the procedure. That means it will probably hurt a little bit, but rest assured you will get a more accurate reading.
Compression also reduces the amount of radiation required.
The center should have a strict quality-control program in place. Ask what they do to ensure quality before you go for the procedure. If they don't have such a program, find another center. A physical examination of the breasts by a trained nurse or qualified physician must accompany the mammogram. Before you go, however, you'll need to see your doctor, who will indicate any concerns he or she has on your mammogram requisition.