DAVID software version 2 (we tested release 2.0.1.8) has some interesting new features compared to version 1.1. First of all, there is a new user interface:
(The DAVID 2 user interface.)
Besides the new design, the two most important enhancements are:
- Deconvolution. With an optional deconvolution of the
measured signal, it should be possible to increase David's sensitivity to
delivery errors (according to the paper of Looe et al, see sidebar).
We want to focus on this new function, since it is inerestening from
the physics point of view.
- First we describe the principle in a simple MATLAB simulation.
- Then we explain how deconvolution can be configured on a Varian linac.
- Some clinical examples are presented.
- A method how a David measurement could actually be predicted is described.
- DICOM import. Plans do not have to be defined manually anymore: DICOM import facilitates plan preparation and measurement. more...
The software evolution can also be seen by comparing the sizes of the software user manuals: While the version 1.1 manual had 48 pages, the volume has grown to impressive 118 pages in version 2.
Testing in our department has shown that the Bluetooth connection to the DAVID chamber is very stable, if the David software is installed on a PC with a physical COM-port. If the Bluetooth connection box was wired that way, we never had connection problems. From our experience, we cannot recommend RS232-to-USB converters.