The linearity of simulator output is required to be better than what percentage?

In the context of medical dosimetry, the linearity of simulator output refers to the degree to which the output of the simulator is consistent and proportional across a range of input values. This is crucial since accurate dosing is essential for effective treatment planning in radiation therapy.

A linearity requirement of better than 5% means that the deviation from the expected dose output must be within ±5% across the range of operational levels. This standard ensures that the simulated radiation dose accurately reflects the intended delivery, which is vital for patient safety and treatment efficacy. If the linearity were to fall outside of this range, it would indicate that the simulator is not performing reliably, which could lead to improper dose calculations affecting treatment outcomes and potentially compromising patient safety.

Maintaining linearity within this range helps to ensure precision in treatment planning and delivery, supporting the overall effectiveness of radiation therapy. Thus, the choice of a 5% limit is a crucial benchmark in the field to uphold the standards of care expected in medical practices.