Charged Couple Device
Also written as: CCD — Charged Couple Device
A solid-state electronic sensor used in direct digital dental radiography systems to capture X-ray images in real time.
Full Definition
A charged couple device (CCD) is a silicon-based electronic image sensor employed in direct digital dental radiographic systems. When X-ray photons strike the sensor's surface, they are converted into electrical charges that are read out and translated into a digital image almost instantaneously, eliminating the need for film processing or phosphor plate scanning. CCD sensors are rigid and wired, which can cause patient discomfort during intraoral placement but offer excellent image resolution and immediate image availability. Editors must render the abbreviation consistently as 'CCD' after first use and should not confuse it with CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) sensors, which serve a similar function through a different technological mechanism. Both are classed as direct digital receptors.
Usage
Usage note: Spell out in full on first mention followed by '(CCD)'. Do not italicise the abbreviation. Distinguish clearly from PSP plates in comparative discussions.
In Context
- "The clinic upgraded from film-based systems to a charged couple device (CCD) receptor, enabling immediate image review chairside." — Equipment specification document
- "The author incorrectly described the CCD as an indirect digital receptor; the editor amended this to 'direct digital receptor'." — Journal manuscript editing