Linear array test tool.

A new linear array test tool is presented. It is easily used to directly measure an image acquisition parameter: the transmit/receive aperture. The aperture measurement gives important information concerning the functioning of the real-time multielement transducer and the equipment's signal-processing hardware and software. A feasibility test of the new test tool demonstrated that it can be easily used by clinical personnel to (1) determine the variation of the transmit/receive aperture with image depth; (2) document the operation of the equipment in each of the operator selectable focusing schemes; (3) perform quick checks of equipment performance when in doubt; and (4) test for and document the existence of nonfunctioning elements in linear, curved linear (convex), and phased arrays.