Monitor type and configuration are of no concern when implementing a PACS in a radiology department.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not relevant

Answer: (B)

When a PACS is implemented, how images are displayed is as important as how they are stored. Radiologic interpretation hinges on accurate, consistent presentation of grayscale, brightness, and detail, and the monitor that a clinician uses is a key part of that display chain. If the monitor’s type, size, resolution, luminance, and uniformity aren’t appropriate and properly calibrated, subtle findings can be missed or misread because the image may not appear as intended. Calibrating displays to the DICOM grayscale standard (GSDF), controlling ambient lighting, and conducting regular QA to verify brightness, contrast, and uniformity ensure that the radiologist sees images consistently across exams and over time. Different tasks require different display capabilities (primary diagnostic monitors vs. reference or secondary displays), each with specific performance needs, so monitoring and configuring these displays is integral to a successful PACS deployment.