Question
Measurements with an ionization chamber is drifting. What can I do?
Answer
If you are encountering drift issues with ionization chambers such as CC chambers, PPC, FC, Stealth, or Razor models, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to address the problem effectively.
- First, examine the connectors of your device. It's essential to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated, as this can interfere with the performance of the ionization chamber. After cleaning, make sure to reconnect the connectors firmly to ensure they are making solid contact. A secure connection is crucial for accurate measurements and reliable performance.
- Next, inspect your cables for any signs of wear or damage. One effective way to check the integrity of the cables is to swap them out with known good ones. This simple exchange can help determine if the cables are the source of the drift, as faulty cables can lead to inconsistent readings.
- Additionally, it is important to verify that the pre-irradiation settings are adequate and that the background is properly compensated. Insufficient pre-irradiation can lead to variations in readings, which may be perceived as drift. Ensuring that these parameters are correctly set can help stabilize the measurements.
If you continue to experience drift after performing these checks, we recommend reaching out to the service team for further assistance. Providing them with detailed measurement data will be crucial for their evaluation:
How can I contact the IBA Dosimetry Service and Support team?
When you contact the support team, please ensure to include the raw data files, such as .opab files. This data will allow the support team to conduct a thorough analysis and provide you with tailored suggestions and the next steps to resolve the drift issue effectively.