What is the ideal way to increase receptor exposure when using automatic exposure control (AEC) and experiencing low exposure?

Increasing the density setting when using automatic exposure control (AEC) is the ideal method to increase receptor exposure in situations of low exposure. The density setting on an AEC unit adjusts the amount of radiation required to produce an image, effectively allowing the operator to enhance the exposure without changing technical factors like milliamperage or kilovoltage.

Increasing the density setting will tell the AEC system to compensate for the low exposure by extending the exposure time or increasing the mA, thereby allowing more photons to reach the receptor. This adjustment does not require altering the fundamental settings of the imaging system, making it a more straightforward and efficient option to address exposure issues while maintaining image quality.

While options like increasing milliamperage or kilovoltage could potentially achieve similar goals of increased exposure, they involve changing the inherent technical settings that are often set for specific examinations. Additionally, adjusting grid ratios can impact contrast and may not necessarily lead to an increase in exposure, as it depends on how much scatter is being reduced rather than overall exposure.

Thus, adjusting the density setting directly influences the AEC system's operation to ensure that the receptor receives adequate exposure, making it the most favorable choice in this context.