1.1 This guide provides a listing and description of the fields that are recommended for inclusion in a digital radiological examination data base to facilitate the transfer of such data. This guide sets guidelines for the format of data fields for computerized transfer of digital image files obtained from radiographic, radioscopic, computed radiographic, or other radiological examination systems. The field listing includes those fields regarded as necessary for inclusion in the data base: (1) regardless of the radiological examination method (as indicated by Footnote C in Table 1), (2) for radioscopic examination (as indicated by Footnote E in Table 1), and (3) for radiographic examination (as indicated by Footnote D in Table 1). In addition, other optional fields are listed as a reminder of the types of information that may be useful for additional understanding of the data or applicable to a limited number of applications.

1.2 It is recognized that organizations may have in place an internal format for the storage and retrieval of radiological examination data. This guide should not impede the use of such formats since it is probable that the necessary fields are already included in such internal data bases, or that the few additions can easily be made. The numerical listing and its order indicated in this guide is only for convenience; the specific numbers and their order carry no inherent significance and are not part of the data file.

1.3 The types of radiological examination systems that appear useful in relation to this guide include radioscopic systems as described in Guide E 1000, Practices E 1255, E 1411 and E 2033, and radiographic systems as described in Guide E 94 and Practices E 748 and E 1742. Many of the terms used are defined in Terminology E 1316.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.