In the world of Computed Tomography (CT) systems, the Global Operator’s Console (GOC) Host PC stands as the central command hub. This master computer is responsible for overseeing every aspect of CT system operations, including data acquisition, reconstruction, display, archiving, and data output in various formats like film and DICOM.

The Host PC efficiently manages these tasks by receiving input from the user through a keyboard and mouse. It harnesses this input, along with the power of the operating and application software installed on the Host PC, to seamlessly control and communicate with the subsystems responsible for image generation, reconstruction, and display.

The Host PC utilizes Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to interface with several critical components:

• Reconstruction Engine
• Gantry/Table
• AW and Xeleris Workstations
• Hospital Network

The Host Computer’s video display ports, which are connected to dual monitors, provide the visual interface for users and facilitate image generation. User input devices, including the keyboard (connected via USB 2.0 ports), trackball, and service key, enhance the interactive experience. The mouse connects to the Host Computer via the PS/2 or USB 2.0 port. The integrated audio controller also serves the Autovoice feature and interfaces with the ICOM through standard analog audio PC connections.

Furthermore, the Host Computer seamlessly interfaces with external Peripheral Towers, with the DVD Peripheral Tower utilizing USB 2.0 ports and the optional MOD Peripheral Tower employing the Ultra Fast SCSI port for seamless interaction.

Let’s Take a Closer Look:

HP Z400 as a Host Computer

The GOC 6.5 Host Computer, historically provided by Hewlett Packard, now features a newer model in the series, the HP Z400. This Intel Xeon processor-based workstation is configured by GE Healthcare to serve as the Host Computer within the GOC 6.5 console.

HP Z400 Hardware at a Glance

The HP Z400 utilizes the following hardware specifications:

• Intel Xeon Quad Core processor (W3520 or W3530, Nehalem architecture)
• Intel X58 Express Chipset (versions B3 or C2)
• DDR3, 1333 MHz, 2 GB or 4 GB ECC DIMM Memory Modules
• DVD 16X SATA Optical Drive
• PCI-e SAS Controller Card
• SAS Hard Disk Drives (146 GB or 300 GB)
• Nvidia Quadro FX1800 768MB Video Card
• Quad Port Gigabit Ethernet Card
• Optional PCI-e U320 SCSI Controller Card
• Dual PORT USB 2.0 Bulkhead Panel
• 475W 85% efficient PSU

Motherboard

The Z400 Host Computer’s motherboard utilizes an FCLGA1366 Socket Xeon Processor Motherboard, equipped with an Intel Xeon processor, audio, GbE NIC Port, and USB 2.0 ports.

Memory Modules

The Z400 can accommodate up to four memory DIMM modules, offering flexibility in memory configurations. 

SAS Hard Disk Drives and Controller

The Z400 utilizes SAS hard disk drives for reliable speed and data storage.

Optical Disk Drives

The Z400 is equipped with a SATA II DVD Optical disk drive.

Quad Port GbE Ethernet Card

The Z400 features a Quad Port Gigabit Ethernet Adapter Card for expanded connectivity.

Nvidia Graphics Card

The Nvidia Quadro FX1800 768MB Video Card is responsible for driving the Scan and Display monitors.

SCSI Interface Card (Optional)

An optional U320 SCSI Controller Card is available for specific configurations.

Power Supply (PSU)

The Z400 is powered by a 475W ATX-style PSU.

Z400 Host Computer Connections

The Z400 Host Computer’s connections are labeled as follows:

• DVD 16X SATA Optical Drive – Connected to the motherboard via SATA Data Cable 
• PCI-e SAS Controller Card – Connected to SAS Hard Disks via SATA Data Cable
• SAS Hard Disk Drives – Connected to SAS Controller Card via SATA Data Cable
• Nvidia Quadro FX1800 – utilizes both display ports connected to two Display Monitors via DVI Cables 
• Quad Port Gigabit Ethernet Card – 3 Ports are utilized to connect to the GOC 6.5 Subsystem, Gantry and Hospital Network
• Optional PCI-e U320 SCSI Controller Card – Connected to Peripheral Tower via HD68 SCSI Cable 
• Dual PORT USB 2.0 Bulkhead Panel – Connected to Power Switch Panel and an Optional External Hard Drive in the Peripheral Tower via USB 2.0 480Mb/s 

Host Computer Software

The Z400 Host Computer is configured to function with a Linux-based 64-bit Operating System (OS) and GE Healthcare’s CT Application (APPS) version 12HW14.6 software designed for the GOC6.5 console.

Host Computer Common Failures and Fixes

The most common failures for the Z400 Host computer are:

• SAS Hard Disk Drive Failure
• DVD 16X SATA Optical Drive Failure
• PCI-e SAS Controller Card Failure