Conventional radiography inspection works by using a special film that reacts to the radiation passing through the equipment, creating the picture to be examined. Because the radiation is captured on film as a part of the process, conventional radiography always provides a permanent, physical record of the test results.

Digital radiography uses a phosphor screen or flat panel containing micro-electronic sensors to capture the radiation rather than a film. The resulting image is stored digitally, instead of on film. Digital radiographs tend to be easier to store and show less image degradation.