An integral criterion (quantum efficiency as a func tion of spatial frequency) is widely used to assess sensitiv ity and image quality parameters of digital X ray image detectors [1,2]. Both sensitivity and image quality parameters of X ray apparatuses are determined not only by the detector, but also by the shade image formation system. Image quality on the monitor also depends on photographic mode and geometry, as well as scattered X ray radiation intensity. X Ray image quality on the mon itor is able to reduce the sensitivity of an X ray apparatus even with an ideal X ray detector, provided that initial X ray image parameters in the input detector plane are not consistent with the detector parameters.The quantum efficiency of an X ray apparatus should be considered as an integral parameter (without information about internal structure of the organ of inter est). Information losses appear at the stage of formation of X ray image and at the stage of visualization.The quantum efficiency of an X ray apparatus should be determined under actual conditions of use of the apparatus. This approach is needed to solve the prob lem of selection of the optimal digital X ray apparatus providing maximal imaging quality and minimal radia tion load on the patient. Just the quantum efficiency of the X ray detector is not enough to provide optimal selec tion of the X ray apparatus.General quantum efficiency (with due regard to image formation system and visualization system) under actual conditions of use is more likely to provide optimal selection of the X ray apparatus.A similar approach is used in television astronomy and in systems of detection of weak light sources for determining quantum yield [3,4].General quantum efficiency of an X ray apparatus and detector quantum efficiency are calculated from sim ilar equations [1, 3]:(1)where η 0 (ν) is general quantum efficiency as a function of spatial frequency ν; ψ in (ν), ψ out (ν) are input and output signal/noise ratio, respectively; η(0) is general quantum efficiency at low spatial frequency, where modulation transfer function (contrast-frequency characteristic, CFC) А(ν) = 1; N(ν) is noise spectral density normalized to N(0) = 1 at low frequency.Output signal/noise ratio is calculated with regard to all noise sources regardless of their origin. For example, under actual conditions of use the input detector plane is illuminated not only by useful X ray photons, but also by scattered photons containing no useful information. This provides additional background image and noise. Input signal/noise ratio is calculated with regard to quantum noise alone (useful signal). The contrast-frequency char acteristic is calculated from Eq. (1) with due regard to CFC of the image formation system. This parameter depends on X ray tube focal spot diameter f, focal dis tance F, and object magnification factor m о .Let us consider general quantum efficiency of a dig ital apparatus containing a detector screen objective CCD matrix. Signal and noise of this detector are identi cal to signal and n...