How is Mobile X-Ray Different from Portable X-Ray?
Lots of companies and radiological websites use “portable” and “mobile” interchangeably which can be confusing among imaging professionals. In this blog, we will go over the differences as well as mobile x-ray machine pros and cons.
A mobile x-ray machine can be disassembled to fit inside the trunk of a car, moves manually, and the unit is powered by a wall outlet. They are quite popular among x-ray companies that drive to nursing homes to take plain x-rays. The mobile x-ray machine pros and cons also make mobile x-rays a great cost-effective solution for urgent care facilities, outpatient centers, or chiropractic offices with space issues. Portable x-ray units, on the other hand, are larger and heavier. They cannot fit inside a trunk of a car. The units need a power source to move and cannot be easily disassembled or manually lifted. Portable x-ray machines are powered by rechargeable batteries and transformers which accounts for their large size and weight.
Disassembles in minutes to fit inside the trunk of a car
Can be moved manually without the need of a power source
Small and maneuverable in tight spaces
Lightweight 147 pounds (66 kG)
Low cost
Can be used in rural areas and communities that do not have on-site imaging centers
Mobile X-Ray Cons
The machine needs to be near a wall outlet to power the machine
May not have enough power to x-ray larger patients
Patients must be lifted to place the cassette underneath the body part to be imaged
Mobile X-Ray Machines Pros and Cons – Analog
Mobile X-Ray Pros – Analog
Cheaper than digital machines
Easier to maintain. They don’t have many parts that need to be replaced such as laptops, viewing screens, batteries, imaging plates, etc.
No need for WiFi or Dicom devices to transfer images.
No need for batteries to power the cassettes
Mobile X-Ray Cons – Analog
Requires multiple cassettes to be stored on the unit
Cassettes need to be processed or scanned to view the images
Requires accurate technical settings for optimal images.
Mobile X-Ray Machines Pros and Cons – Digital
Mobile X-Ray Pros – Digital
Uses less radiation
The image can be evaluated bed side without the need to process the cassette
Technical factors do not have to be accurate which allows wider exposure latitudes.
The image contrast and brightness can be adjusted on the unit.
Digital Images can be transferred to other healthcare facilities or printed out on a disc.
Mobile X-Ray Cons – Digital
Digital machines cost more
Digital imaging plates and cassettes have weight limits.
Bodily fluids or liquids may damage the DR imaging plate
DR plates break easily if dropped
There may be connectivity issues with WiFi on digital machines
Imaging plates require battery power
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Digital Imaging is The Standard of X-Ray Imaging
Digital mobile x-ray machines can be an expensive option for most imaging departments. But they are a “must have” if outpatient centers and immediate care facilities are going to compete in today’s healthcare market. Doctors expect images and results to be transferred to their offices in under an hour. Patients want copies of their X-rays to take home.
“A refurbished digital mobile x-ray machine is an inexpensive way to keep up with technology.”
Most hospital’s department’s funds are diverted to deal with the on-going pandemic. And until the population is vaccinated hospitals are going to focus their spending on beds, respirators and isolation rooms. Therefore, more and more imaging departments are looking for cost-effective imaging solutions.
Luckily, there’s an answer and it doesn’t require high tech, expensive machines or a huge budget to buy quality equipment.
Amber Has Many Mobile X-Ray Machines that Fit All Budgets and Imaging Requirements
Hopefully, the mobile x-ray machine pros and cons covered in this blog have given you a good idea what machine you need for your department. Refurbished x-ray machines are a great cost-effective option for hospitals, chiropractic practices, urgent care facilities and other imaging departments. Amber offers factory reconditioned units, saving 30 to 50% compared to new mobile x-ray machines.
The image quality on refurbished portable x-ray machines are just as good as any other state of the art mobile x-ray machine on the market. Plus, all of Amber’s equipment is backed by their nationwide warranty, service, and support.
Call Now for a FREE Consultation.
Let Amber Diagnostic’s 27 years of experience help you pick the right mobile x-ray machine to meet your department’s needs.
When it comes to refurbishing equipment, Amber has been doing it longer than any other company on the market. Our experienced engineers will help you every step of the way.
Check out our complete inventory of portable machines here.
At Amber Diagnostics our trained professionals have been refurbishing used imaging equipment since 1994. We are more than capable of handling all questions and services throughout the purchasing process including room planning, shipping, installation, and training. Our warranties and financing can be customized to fit your facility’s needs and budgets. Click here to receive a call from our experts.
