Anyone who works with X-ray systems knows that its uses are almost unlimited. This equipment can come in the form of X-ray illuminators or X-ray cassettes and screens. These machines are for use in medical applications, as well as to fight terrorism.

With the increase in technology comes increase in demand. Hospitals, physician offices and counterterrorism programs need people who are both knowledgeable and up-to-date with new equipment. To be someone who works with or around X-ray equipment, you will need the following:

1. Complete a training course for the X-ray equipment you want to work with.

2. Increase your chances of landing the best job by becoming certified, licensed and/or registered.

3. Ensure safe use of the X-ray instrument you use.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an x-ray equipment education and training program suitable for your field

To be an X-ray technician in any field, education is a must. There are several online X-ray technician schools that will provide X-ray equipment information used in many hospitals and medical facilities. And all that is required is two years of an accredited course in order to take the exam to become a radiographer (X-ray technician). Plus, classes are affordable. For people in non-medical fields, the training is less strenuous, and you can often complete it in as little as one day.

I recommend: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a self taught course online for X-ray equipment use. This course includes a self examination. Explotech offers one day training courses for operators of X-ray equipment used to fight terrorism. This course is available on site or as part of a web-base program. E-screens are available to people who have registered for the course as part of a recertification program.

Get licensed, certified or registered to use the x-ray equipment

Many states require that students be licensed, certified or registered prior to using X-ray equipment. The level and type required depend on state laws as well as the purpose of the X-ray. For example, people using X-ray equipment at an airport will have different requirements than someone using X-ray equipment in a hospital. That means students need to make sure their knowledge isn't limited to the way the technology is used, but also, where it comes from.

I recommend: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists offers a list of accredited X-ray schools. These schools have approved training programs that offer licensing and other exams as part of the regular curriculum. Additionally, many of the schools offer job placement assistance. The United States Department of Labor offers an overview of X-ray equipment jobs. This includes information on obtaining a certification and the purpose behind certification.

Learn proper safety procedures for all X-ray test equipment

Going to school will give anyone looking to make a living in this field knowledge of the modern X-ray instruments, including the safety procedures for each. For example, in a digital X-ray system, digital sensors replace the established photographic film, which affects pacemakers differently than traditional X-rays. People working in the medical industry have been using digital X-ray equipment because, not only does it enhance images, it's also time efficient. Industrial X-ray equipment is the highly developed, growing technology that any X-ray technician will want to know about.

I recommend: The University of Pennsylvania offers a detailed explanation of safety procedures to follow, including personnel safety and external use safety. You can find in depth information on safety procedures needed for various types of X-ray equipment, including veterinary equipment and considerations, at University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  People in the medical field who want to work with an X-ray system should consider asking their employer if any education assistance is available. Many employers will help with education expenses for an employee to learn a new skill, rather than having to pay the cost to orientate a new employee.

When it comes to buying X-ray equipment, it's vital to plan and research the items you need to purchase. If you can save a few dollars and obtain the best, easy-to-use X-ray test equipment that interacts with your facility's infrastructure, you've done your job.

Whether your office or hospital facility needs to replace or buy industrial X-ray equipment, digital X-ray equipment or portable X-ray items, you need to make sure your equipment can be compatible with your software as well as cost-efficient. When looking for X-ray equipment, do the following:

1. Figure out what X-ray instruments and accessories you need to buy.

2. Purchase used X-ray equipment from reputable businesses.

3. Determine the number of years you plan to have your X-ray instruments at your facility, and investigate financing options.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate the X-ray equipment and accessories your facility needs

You may need items such as digital X-ray equipment or types of X-ray test equipment. You should also take into consideration X-ray accessories, such as film processors and imaging equipment. Determine if you need the extras before you make your purchase, which can save you money.

I recommend: Check out X-ray supplier A&J Medical International, Inc. for their digital X-ray equipment. If you're in need of any type of X-ray accessory, look into Quick Medical. National X-Ray offers a wide array of industrial X-ray equipment and digital X-ray equipment.

Find used X-ray equipment suppliers to cut costs

Many clinics, hospitals or private practice locations sell their used equipment once they don't have a need for it. Perhaps they upgraded their equipment or purchased replacement items, or they simply no longer have a need for the X-ray systems. Use that to your advantage, and save yourself money.

I recommend: Look into Amber Diagnostics for FDA-certified used X-ray instruments. Consider purchasing used X-ray equipment from United Medical Technologies Corporation.

Get X-ray equipment information

Purchasing X-ray systems and other accessories can be a costly investment. Investigate different X-ray systems through information resources online before you buy.

I recommend: X-Ray Information offers great articles and blogs about X-ray systems and their uses. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research has a good site with a lot of relevant information on X-ray equipment, and information on various X-ray systems.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Purchase warranties when you buy your X-ray instruments. Even if you don't buy the equipment directly from the manufacturer, some used X-ray equipment distributors offer warranties.
• •  Make sure the X-ray equipment you purchase is compatible with your current system. The last thing you want to worry about is buying expensive X-ray instruments that won't work.