Given the proliferation of digital X-ray detector use over the last seveal years, it's not surprising to see a corresponding proliferation in DR panel makes and models. With all these options comes the question: "Which one is better for me?"
To help you learn more about answering this question, we've compared two models side-by-side to highlight their technical differences and what each panel has to offer X-ray users. Keep reading for more details on the Vieworks Vivix-S 1417W and the Iray Mars 1417V.
Speed of Use
When comparing the speed of use between two DR panels an advantage for one panel will probably be only a matter of seconds. This might not seem significant but, when those seconds are multiplied by the hundreds or thousands of scans performed with a given panel, the time can add up to significant hours being saved. That being said, the Vivix-S is definitely the faster of these two panels.
The speed advantage of the Vivix comes from two features: automatic exposure detection (AED) and 2-second image preview.
AED: Having AED means that, when powered on, a Vivix panel is always ready to respond to the X-ray generator. The Mars 1417V, on the other hand, uses a feature called Auto Trigger. In an Auto Trigger system, a signal from the acquisition workstation is sent to the panel to activate the detector cells so they're ready to receive X-ray. This signal and cell activation add a small window of time to the acquisition process.
2-Second Image Preview: A tech using a Vivix panel will have a preview of an image ready to validate in two seconds. A tech using a Mars panel will have their preview in five seconds.
Image Quality
The image quality category, too, goes to the Vivix-S. Images captured with a higher density of pixels are clearer. A higher density of pixels is achieved when the pixels are smaller. The pixels in the Mars 1417V are 150 micrometers while those in the Vivix-S are 140 micrometers. In terms of resolution, the Mars 1417V is rated at 2.8 lines per millimeter (lp/mm) while the Vivix-S is rated at 3.5 lp/mm, an 80% advantage.
Weight
The Vivix-S is once again the leader, weighing in at 6.8 pounds, while the Mars 1417V weighs 7.9. Like the seconds cumulatively saved by using a quicker panel, the effort saved with a lighter panel, stacked up over hundreds of movements, becomes considerable.
Cost
This category is a victory for the Iray Mars 1417V. These panels typically cost somewhere in the low twenty-thousands while Vivix-S panels fall into the high twenty-thousands. The purchase savings amount to about 20%.
The Takeaway
In performance, the Vieworks Vivix-S 1417W is a clear frontrunner over the Iray Mars 1417V. Quicker operating speeds, lighter design, and (most importantly) superior image quality are all advantages any user will appreciate. The Iray is a less expensive panel up front by 20% but, given the benefits just mentioned, we believe the Vivix panel is ultimately a better value.
If you have more questions about Vieworks, Iray, or other DR panels, our team is ready to start the conversation.
Sheldon Schehr: October 9, 2024
Steve Rentz: September 10, 2024