When changing exposure factors from single-phase to three-phase equipment, how much of the original milliampere-seconds is typically required to maintain receptor exposure?

When transitioning from single-phase to three-phase equipment, it is typically necessary to adjust the exposure factors to maintain optimal receptor exposure. The correct adjustment is often to use only one-half of the original milliampere-seconds.

This is because three-phase equipment provides a more consistent and higher level of overall tube output during exposure due to the continuous nature of its power delivery. In contrast, single-phase equipment has periods of lower output as it cycles through its waveform. As a result, when utilizing three-phase equipment, one requires less milliampere-seconds to achieve the same level of receptor exposure that would be achieved with higher milliampere-seconds on single-phase equipment.

This reduction is rooted in the improved efficiency and more stable energy delivery associated with three-phase systems, which allows radiographers to lower their exposure settings without sacrificing image quality.