Calibration of a Microselectron HDR iridium 192 source

A method for the calibration of the output, in terms of an air kerma rate, of the high activity miniature iridium 192 sources used in the Microselectron HDR afterloading unit is described. An air kerma rate is measured using a calibrated thimble chamber in an "in-air" calibration jig. The results are compared with an air kerma rate derived from the manufacturer's test certificate. In some cases, the ionization chamber measurements have been followed by a further calibration check using thermoluminescent dosimetry. Other checks carried out when a new source is received are also briefly described.