Occasionally, customers have issues with the electrical requirements for x-ray equipment. This can be for a variety of reasons. Sometimes a customer simply does not have the available electric capacity to run the additional dedicated line to the generator; sometimes the landlord will not allow them to change the electrical. Maybe a customer doesn’t want to invest in costly electrical changes if they don’t plan on being in a space long-term. And for some, depending on what changes need to be made, it can be cost prohibitive to make the required electrical changes. Regardless of the circumstances, it isn’t uncommon for a customer to ask if they have options that allow them to use the electrical that is already in the room. This article will give you some insight into what options you may have if you cannot make the required electrical changes to your space but still want to add a digital x-ray system to your practice.
There are generally two options when customers are in this situation; a battery powered/stored energy generator or a portable x-ray system. The next few paragraphs will discuss these two options in more detail and explain key points for you to consider in this situation.
For customers who want a more traditional, installed x-ray system and have a dedicated room they want to use their system in, typically the best option is to change out the generator portion of the system to a stored energy generator. In a traditional x-ray system, it is the generator that requires the dedicated electrical line and increased power demand. A stored energy generator has batteries to help generate the high frequency needed for x-rays and can run off of the standard electrical that is already in the x-ray room.
Stored energy/battery powered generators are a more costly option than a standard x-ray generator. Also, the battery cells have to be replaced over time, which is an added maintenance expense. It is important to weigh the total cost of ownership over time with the upfront cost of making electrical changes to see if it makes sense for you and your situation to go with a stored energy generator.
Another option customers sometimes choose in situations where they need a system that plugs into a standard wall outlet is a portable x-ray system. These types of systems are great options for customers who don’t want a dedicated x-ray room and want to be able to move the system from location to location. This is also an option for customers who don’t want to take on the added expense of building out an x-ray room and making costly electrical changes.
It is important to keep in mind that some states restrict the use of portable x-ray systems. You will want to check with your state’s regulating agency to ensure you are able to use a portable x-ray system and what laws are in place regarding the use of these types of systems in your state. Even in states that allow portable x-ray systems, you may still have lead lining requirements or certain restrictions of where and how these types of systems can be used.
In conclusion, not being able to make the required electrical changes may not be the end of your road with getting a new digital x-ray system. You can choose to go with one of the alternative battery powered systems like the two described above. If you have any questions or would like to speak with someone on our team about your x-ray project, please call us today at (800) 949- 8015 or email us at sales@magenimaging.com .