Imaging system architectures for picture archiving and communication systems.

Picture archiving and communications systems (PACS) provide for the intraelectronic management of acquired digital image examination. Mini-PACS are image-management systems focused on specific applications. Computer architecture to be applied to radiology applications includes pipelining to improve the speed of the central processing unit, client and server architecture for distributed radiology applications, and image file servers. Image-compression algorithms provide increased digital storage and increased image transmission speeds. Throughput rates can be improved by identifying the bottlenecks.