The following information was taken from http://csa6.lbl.gov/physdiv/xray/Overview.html

This "direct quantum detection" technique is an inherently digital approach. X-rays are individually
detected and processed by high speed electronic circuitry to build up a high quality digitally
processed image. X-ray image generation by this technique, without the intermediary of optical
imaging media, should offer some very valuable features:

• Detection efficiency close to unity over clinical energy range
• Optimum information content through photon counting
• High resolution, comparable to film
• Improved image contrast due to insensitivity to scattered x-rays
• Linear intensity response, very large dynamic range, and low noise
• Possibility of differential attenuation imaging, using x-ray energy
• Immediate image presentation for image quality verification
• Possibility of immediate data manipulation and image processing
• Improved archival storage/access, and image permanence
• Remote image access capability using electronic networking technology
• Programmable collimator aperture, to limit exposure to region-of-interest
• Absence of chemicals associated with photographic development, avoiding environmental hazards and disposal requirements