IDEA Sequence Programming

MR IDEA Sequence Programming course teaches the IDEA software for pulse sequence programming on syngo MR MAGNETOM systems. Pulse sequence design and system integration are demonstrated in both lecture and laboratory sessions using computer workstations, along with scanner demonstrations. This course is intended for the site MR physicist or physician who intends to design and implement investigational pulse sequences on the MAGNETOM system for research purposes. This course has a companion course, IDEA Imaging Calculation Programming, which presents methods for developing image reconstruction programs.

Course Structure:

The course offers 24-hour access to video lectures and virtual MR Simulators, so students can prepare for discussion and lab sessions.

There are three (3) discussion/lab sessions per day. Each student is expected to attend two (2). Typically, students in the Asia-Pacific region attend sessions (A) and (C).

Available Times:

• 8:30 am - 11:30 am EST
• 11:30 am - 2:30 pm EST
• 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm EST (EST)

Audience: Intended for external research partners (MR physicists and/or physicians with a research agreement) developing new pulse sequences, and for new Siemens pulse sequence developers.

Prerequisites: Thorough knowledge of MR physics and sequence design is assumed. Knowledge of C++ programming language is strongly recommended.

1. A nondisclosure form regarding proprietary materials will be signed by external participants on or before the first day of the class. A copy of this form is available on request.
2. Facilities with an existing research agreement should contact the R&D department regarding the necessity of the individual nondisclosure form mentioned above.

Key Topics

• Basic sequence philosophy and sequence structure
• Protocol incorporation
• Image Calculation Environment
• Sequence incorporation and Program implementation
• Real Time Events
• Implementation
• Sequence analysis
• Other software tools
• Pulse Display tool
• Unit test
• Hardware and components
• Location of access ports
• Sequence Simulation
• Microsoft Visual Studio debugging tool

Upon completion of this course the learner should be able to:

• Explain the design of the MAGNETOM pulse sequences and their implementation
• Obtain information regarding other software tools such as the sequence simulator and pulse display tool
• Obtain information on the Image Calculation Environment (ICE) used for data processing
• Learn to create pulse sequences and process data using the MAGNETOM MR Systems