What is the primary function of the scan converter in an ultrasound system?

What is the primary function of the scan converter in an ultrasound system?

• A. Converts echo data into display format.
• B. Amplifies received echoes.
• C. Changes the transmitted beam angle.
• D. Adjusts depth information.

Answer: (A)

The scan converter’s job is to take the raw echoes from the receiver and turn them into a displayable image. It takes depth samples for each scan line and maps them to pixels on the screen, converting the transducer’s geometry (often a curved or sector pattern) into a rectangular display layout, while using echo strength to set pixel brightness. This is distinct from amplification (which boosts signal strength) or beam steering (which changes the transmitted beam angle) or depth adjustment (which changes how deep the image goes). In short, the scan converter translates the received echo data into a display-ready image.

The scan converter’s job is to take the raw echoes from the receiver and turn them into a displayable image. It takes depth samples for each scan line and maps them to pixels on the screen, converting the transducer’s geometry (often a curved or sector pattern) into a rectangular display layout, while using echo strength to set pixel brightness. This is distinct from amplification (which boosts signal strength) or beam steering (which changes the transmitted beam angle) or depth adjustment (which changes how deep the image goes). In short, the scan converter translates the received echo data into a display-ready image.