Understanding true size printing configuration

With true size printing, the image on the printed film is the same size as the acquired image (for example, on the CR imaging plate), with a maximum deviation of 1%. True size printing allows clinicians to make accurate measurements and diagnoses. Ensuring that a print is produced at true size requires careful configuration and use of the IMPAX Client software, in three areas.

1. Ensuring accurate image calibration

An IMPAX image can have four possible calibration states: Modality, Modality with ERMF, User, and None. If the value is None, then true size printing is not possible. With Modality and Modality/ERMF calibration, as long as the modality sends accurate DICOM data, then true size printing can be done accurately. Refer to Reverting to modality calibration and Applying ERMF calibration.

When calibration information is non-existent or inaccurate, the remaining option is for the user to calibrate the image. As long as the user does this accurately, and the same user prints the image, the image can be printed at true size. Refer to Calibrating images.

2. Selecting a preset with true size enabled

When printing through the Export command, one of the options to select is a print preset. To print at true size, the selected print preset must have the True Size option selected. When adding or editing print presets, the True Size checkbox appears on the Magnification page. Only presets having this checkbox selected can be used to print at true size.

3. Defining the printable area

Before film printing through the Composite Layout tool is possible, a printable area must be defined for the DICOM printer. Unless this area is accurately defined, true size printing is not possible. Refer to Defining the printable area.