In order to bring the material we present completely up-to-date, much more is needed than simply adding two or three chapters on digital imaging to our textbooks. First, the entire emphasis of the foundational physics our students learn must be adjusted in order to properly support the specific information on digital imaging that will follow. Second, there has been a paradigm shift in our use of image terminology. Great care is needed in choosing appropriate terminology, accurate descriptions and lucid illustrations for this material. The elimination of much obsolete and extraneous material is long overdue. Our students need to know the electrical physics which directly bear upon the production of x-rays in the x-ray tube - they do not need to solve parallel and series circuit problems in their daily practice of radiography, nor do they need to be spending time solving problems on velocity. This is the philosophy that sets this textbook apart from other radiography textbooks.

There are eleven full chapters dealing specifically with digital and electronic imaging concepts, with an emphasis on practical application issues for both CR and DR. Image display systems have been brought up to date by presenting the basics of LCD screens and the basics of quality control for electronic images.

A firm foundation of math and basic physics skills is first laid out, with a focus maintained on energy physics rather than mechanical physics. The nature of electromagnetic waves is more carefully and thoroughly discussed, but chapters on electricity are limited to only those concepts which bear directly upon the production of x-rays in the x-ray tube.

Sixteen chapters on the principles of exposure employ terminology and descriptions adapted with great care to the digital environment. Finally, five chapters on Radiation Biology and Protection include an unflinching look at current issues and practical applications.