DIGITAL SCAN CONVERTERS IN DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND IMAGING

The use of digital scan converters in ultrasonic imaging is presented. The basic principles of ultrasound physics and imaging are briefly reviewed. A detailed description of the components and principles of operation of digital scan converters follows. The capabilities of current digital scan converters in terms of resolution, writing speed, preprocessing and postprocessing, and new rapid scanning techniques are discussed. A summary of the factors which limit performance demonstrates the interdependence of the ultrasonic pulse-repetition frequency, memory size and speed, magnification, depth of penetration, and the occurrence of Moire artifacts. Concluding remarks summarize the technology status and indicate expected future developments. Copyright © 1979 by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc.