What is the primary purpose of using Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) in radiography?

The primary purpose of using Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) in radiography is to provide an appropriate image receptor exposure. AEC systems are designed to automatically adjust the amount of radiation used during an X-ray procedure based on the density of the tissue being imaged. By doing this, AEC ensures that the final image has optimal exposure, which is essential for maintaining image quality while keeping radiation doses to patients as low as possible. Proper exposure levels facilitate clear imaging, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

While AEC contributes to minimizing radiation exposure indirectly by optimizing the exposure settings, its main function is to ensure that the image receptor receives the correct amount of radiation for a diagnostic-quality image. Thus, the focus is on achieving consistent image quality rather than solely reducing radiation exposure or enhancing image contrast.