R_Bibb_Medical_Modelling_The_Application_of_Adv.pdf

3.3 Media
Export data format and media 35
In combination with the data format, the output media type is also a part
of the whole system. Typically, these are intended for archiving and tend
to be high capacity magnetic optical disks (MOD). These are expensive in
terms of the disks, hardware and software and are not commonly found in
any other fi elds. It is often prohibitively expensive for service providers to
purchase the necessary equipment to read every type of output media.
Typically, data on these media is sent to specialists who charge for
translation of the data into a readable format and media type. For example,
Table 3.2 lists different types of storage media that are used in radiology
but not commonly used in other fi elds. This contributes considerable cost
and lead-time to the process of accessing CT data.
However, this problem is rapidly being overcome by advances in computer
networks and telecommunications. In addition, there has been widespread
adoption of Windows operating systems, PC hardware, compact
discs (CD) and digital versatile discs (DVD) as data storage media. With
Table 3.2 Media types used for medical scan data
CD / DVD PC formatted CDs and DVDs are the preferred media
Recordable (CD-ROM) type.
Re-writable (CD-RW) They have high capacity; they are secure; they can
DVD (R+/−, RW) be read directly by almost any PC; and they are
readily available and very cheap.
ZIP / JAZ PC formatted ZIP and JAZ disks can be read directly
Iomega ZIP or JAZ disk by anyone with the appropriate hardware. These
disks are not so readily available and relatively
expensive.
Floppy disk PC formatted 3.5″ fl oppy disks can be read directly;
3.5″ however, they are of little use due to their limited
capacity. They are readily available and cheap.
MOD / WORM Still a commonly used medium in radiography
Magnetic optical disk departments. MODs can be translated but may
Write once read many incur additional charge and delay from a service
5.25″ provider to transfer the data to a more convenient
format. MODs are not readily available and are
expensive.
DAT DAT is now becoming obsolete in data archiving.
Digital audio tape However, DAT tapes can be translated but may
4 mm incur an additional charge and delay from a
service provider to transfer the data to a more
convenient format.
Magnetic tape These tapes are no longer in common use and it is
unlikely that any service provider will offer a
translation service.