What happens to the imaging plate when it is processed in a computed radiography (CR) reader?

• A. The imaging plate is extracted by rollers
• B. Energy trapped in the imaging plate is released as light photons
• C. The cassette is hit with a laser
• D. It is read by a laser moving in a raster pattern

Answer: (A)

In CR processing, the imaging plate is fed through the reader by rollers. This mechanical transport pulls the plate from the input area into the scanning region so the data can be read. The energy stored in the plate is later released as light photons when the laser stimulates it during the readout, and the laser moves in a raster pattern to scan the plate. The cassette itself isn’t irradiated with a laser, and while the laser readout is essential, the immediate processing step being described is the plate being moved through the reader by rollers.