A computer interfaced, multiple radioisotope counting and scanning system

Abstract

This research has outlined the design and development of a computer interfaced, multiple radioisotope counting and scanning system. The basic components of the system were a Digital Equipment Corporation PDP-11/34A minicomputer and two Ohio-Nuclear rectilinear scanners. The two scanners (5" and 8" dual detector models) were combined into one unit and interfaced to the PDP-11/34A. An IEEE-488-1978 high speed digital interface was used to collect data in four gamma ray energy windows while scanner head motion was simultaneously monitored via Schmitt trigger input into the computer's real time clock module. Software was written to control scan acquisition and to process, analyze and display the stored scan data. A variety of methods for data processing and analysis taken from the work of previous researchers were incorporated into the system and new methods were developed as required. Several options for display of scan data were employed including: numeric and symbolic scan printout; photorecording; and three-dimensional and contour plotting of data. Studies were carried out to demonstrate system performance and determine system limitations. Radionuclide quantification from profile scan data was performed. Also, localization of three radionuclides in vivo was demonstrated.