• LINACS producing electrons- for shallow lesions and superficial lesions

Major Components:

1. Drive Stand- contains the apparatus that drives the LINACS like gauges, tanks an buttons.

a. Klystron/ Magnetron- most important part of LINAC; provides the source of microwave power that is used to accelerate electrons.

b. Waveguide- hallow tubular structures.

c. Circulator- directs the RF energy into the waveguide and prevents any reflected microwaves from returning to klystron/magnetron.

d. Cooling System- allows many components or assemblies in the gantry drive stand to operate the constant temperature.
- absorbs the heat generated by the machine.

2. Gantry- most important; contains the source.
- responsible for directing the x-ray photon or the electron beam at the patient’s tumor.

a. Electron Gun- responsible for producing electrons and injecting them into the accelerator structure.

b. Accelerator Structure or Guide- It is where the microwave power is transported on which corrugations are used to slow up the waves.

c. Treatment head- contains the source; most important in the gantry.

d. Beam Stopper or Counterweight- optional; balances the lead shielding.
-made of lead and helps the machine rotate smoothly and provides additional shielding.

3. Control Console- monitors and controls the LINAC.

4. Treatment Couch or Patient Support Assembly (PSA)
- area on which the patients are positioned to receive their radiation treatment.
- looks like a table.

LINACs facility should be securely installed in steel buildings to protect both the workers and the patients.