The ACR-NEMA Digital Imaging and communications Standard: a nontechnical description

The purpose of this report is to present, in nontechnical terms, the purpose and history of the American College of Radiology and National Electrical Manufacturers Association (ACR-NEMA) Digital Imaging and Communications Standard (ACR-NEMA Standards Publication no. 300-1985), an explanation of what the standard is, the characteristics of the standard, possible applications of the standard, and ongoing standardization efforts. It is assumed that the reader has at least a basic understanding of the concepts and technologies described collectively as picture archiving and communication systems (PACS). For information on PACS, please refer to the NEMA PACS Primer and the list of suggested reading contained therein (for copies, write or call NEMA, 2101 L St, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20037, ATTN: Ms Cindy Fuscoe; telephone 202-457-1965).