As we start gaining more new information, it is important to remember that all of this continues to build. Much of what we start to go over in this section will be built on in later sections. Important information gets repeated. You will notice this as we go. I recommend printing the worksheet out to make it easier to fill in as you go through these pages. Please ask questions if you have them.
The X-ray System
The X-ray system can be separated into the following major parts.
- The Control Panel
- Generator
- X-ray Tube
- Beam Modifiers
- Image Receptor
The X-ray Machine

This is just an example of a run of the mill x-ray tube and table. The labeled parts include:
- Generator - Creates the voltage necessary for x-ray production.
- Tube Housing - Encases the x-ray tube. It is also filled with insulation oil, which dissipates heat caused by x-ray production and also acts as a filter.
- Collimator Housing - Encases the collimator, which is responsible for defining the size and shape of the x-ray beam.
- Table - Most tables have the ability to move longitudinally and latitudinally to maximize ease of patient positioning.
- Table Bucky - Holds the image receptor, film cassette or CR cassette. In direct digital units, you may not have a bucky. There is usually a bucky attached to the wall as well so upright exams, such as chest x-rays, can be performed.
Hopefully you have had some contact with a x-ray machine. If you haven't, but have the ability to do so, I would recommend it.