The contrast sensitivity gauge measures contrast sensitivity independent of the imaging system spatial resolution limitations. The thickness recess dimensions of the contrast sensitivity gauge are large with respect to the spatial resolution limitations of most imaging systems. Four levels of contrast sensitivity are measured: 4 %, 3 %, 2 %, and 1 %.

The contrast sensitivity gauge is intended for use in conjunction with a high-contrast resolution measuring gauge, such as the EN 462 – 5 Duplex Wire Image Quality Indicator. Such gauges measure spatial resolution essentially independent of the imaging system's contrast sensitivity. Such measurements are appropriate for the qualification and performance monitoring of radiographic and radioscopic imaging systems with film, realtime devices, Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Detector Arrays (DDA).

Radioscopic/radiographic system performance may be specified by combining the measured contrast sensitivity expressed as a percentage with the spatial resolution expressed in millimeters of unsharpness. For the EN 462 – 5 spatial resolution gauge, the unsharpness is equal to twice the wire diameter. For the line pair gauge, the unsharpness is equal to the reciprocal of the line-pair/mm value. As an example, an imaging system that exhibits 2 % contrast sensitivity and images the 0.1 mm EN 462 – 5 paired wires (equivalent to imaging 5 line-pairs/millimeter resolution on a line-pair gauge) performs at a 2 %–0.2 mm sensitivity level. A standard method of evaluating overall radioscopic system performance is given in Practice E 1411 and in EN 13068–1 and for CR it can be found in Practice E 2445.

1.1 This practice covers the design and material selection of a contrast sensitivity measuring gauge used to determine the minimum change in material thickness or density that may be imaged without regard to spatial resolution limitations.

1.2 This practice is applicable to transmitted-beam radiographic and radioscopic imaging systems utilizing X-ray and gamma ray radiation sources.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The SI units given in parentheses are for information only.

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. For specific safety statements, see NIST/ANSI Handbook 114 Section 8, Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 1020.40 and 29 CFR 1910.96.