Magnetic cases have become a popular choice for collectors to store and display valuable trading cards and booster packs, offering enhanced protection while showcasing the card’s appeal. These cases are often made of acrylic or plastic with a small magnetic closure to keep the card secure. However, when it comes to certain advanced imaging techniques like CT (computed tomography) scanning, the presence of magnets can introduce specific challenges that may impact the quality and effectiveness of the scan. In this article, we’ll explore how magnets affect CT scanning and the implications for collectors seeking to scan trading cards.
CT Scanning Theory
CT scanning is a sophisticated imaging method that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images (or slices) of objects, which are then compiled into a 3D representation. In the context of scanning collectibles such as trading cards, we at PACK SCAN use CT scanning for precise analysis of the card’s layers, surface wear, and foil content.
The Role of Magnets in Magnetic Cases
Magnetic cases typically use small, embedded magnets to keep the case tightly sealed around the card. These magnets are usually placed at the top of the case (such as in the ONE-TOUCH range by Ultra Pro). This allows for easy opening and closing without the need for clasps or other mechanical locks. While these magnets are small, their presence can still affect certain technologies, including CT scanners, in significant ways.
How Magnets Affect CT Scanning
1. Magnetic Interference with X-Ray Detectors
CT scanners operate using X-rays, which are directed at the object and pass through it to create images based on varying densities. Magnets, though relatively small in a trading card case, can cause distortion in the X-ray beam, leading to degraded image quality. This interference typically occurs due to the metallic properties of the magnets, which can block or scatter the X-rays. The result may be blurred or incomplete scans, making it making it hard to accurately detect foil and ink features.
2. Artifacts in the Scan Images
Magnets can cause “artifacts” in CT images, which are unwanted distortions or anomalies that obscure the true appearance of the object being scanned. These artifacts may appear as bright spots, streaks, or distortions around the area where the magnet is located. For trading cards in magnetic cases, this can make it challenging to assess the card’s condition in detail, especially when looking for subtle imperfections.
3. Impact on CT Scanner Calibration
The CT scanners we use at PACK SCAN are sensitive to the magnetic environment in which they operate. The magnets in the trading card case, while small, can affect the calibration of the machine. CT scanners rely on precise, pre-determined settings to correctly interpret the density of objects. The presence of a magnetic field may cause the scanner to misinterpret the data, leading to inaccurate measurements of the card’s features or defects.
4. Shielding of Internal Features
Magnets, especially those embedded in trading card cases, can create shielding effects that limit the scanner’s ability to penetrate through the card and case fully. This can prevent the scanner from detecting subtle layering details on cards that collectors might be interested in assessing. For example, a layer of text on a card may not show up clearly in the scan if a magnetic field alters the X-ray’s path.
Minimizing Magnet-Related Issues in CT Scanning
Here at PACK SCAN we find the presence of magnets in card cases presents a potential obstacle. However, we have found ways to mitigate these effects:
1. We use Non-Magnetic Booster Pack Cases:
As we frequently scan trading card boosters, we have opted for non-magnetic cases for daily operations here at PACK SCAN HQ. We use grading slab cases and toploaders to store, scan and ship boosters in our care. These cases provide similar protection without the risk of magnetic interference.
2. We Remove the Booster Pack from the Magnetic Case Before Scanning:
For those of you who send your booster packs to us in magnetic cases, we carefully remove the booster pack from that case and place it in another acrylic case for protection before the CT scan. This ensures that no magnetic interference affects the image quality. We then return it to its original magnetic case so that it returns back to you in same condition you sent it.
3. Shielding and Calibration Adjustments:
In certain situations, if removing the booster pack from the magnetic case is not feasible, we can attempt to adjust the calibration settings or employ specific shielding techniques to minimize the impact of the magnets. However, this requires significant intervention and may not fully eliminate artifacts, so please contact us if your are planning to send us a booster pack requiring this attention.
Conclusion
CT scanning can be a powerful tool for analyzing and verifying the condition of trading card booster packs, offering insights that go beyond surface-level inspections. However, magnets in trading card cases pose a risk to the quality and accuracy of the scans due to their potential for interference with the X-rays and the scanner’s calibration. Collectors aiming to use this technology should be mindful of these effects and take steps to remove the magnetic case or seek alternative storage solutions to ensure the clearest and most accurate scans of their prized cards.
