Bio-Rad PharosFX™ and PharosFX Plus Systems - Manual (Page 28)

4.4 Phosphor Imaging Procedures
4.4.1 How to Prepare K-Type Imaging Screens
Fig. 4.8. K-type imaging screens.
All K-type imaging screens (K, K-HD, K/Tritium) are not erased prior to shipment from the
factory and should be erased for 20 minutes prior to first use. Subsequent erasures should
only take 10 minutes.
Note: Optimal image quality and sensitivity can only be achieved with a thoroughly erased
screen.
Caution: The captured signal (latent image) stored on a K-type screen can be partially
erased when the screen is exposed to fluorescent room light. Users should rapidly transfer
the screen from the exposure cassette to the laser scanner. Some users choose to dim the
room lights to prevent accidental erasure.
When screens are not in use, they should be placed in the original shipping box provided
and placed in a dry and dark environment.
Caution: The phosphor surface of the screen is sensitive to damage from moisture,
mishandling and improper use of solvents. For detailed instructions on how to maintain the
K-type imaging screens, please refer to the Care and Maintenance section of this manual
(Section 5.2.).
4.4.2 How to Erase Imaging Screens
The screen eraser (Figure 4.9) contains a series of bulbs that produce light that is a specific
wavelength range. When illuminated with this light, the phosphor crystals in the screen
discharge, returning to ground state. As a result, any screen background or residual signal
is removed.
Fig. 4.9. Screen Eraser.
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