Abstract: A radiographic examination system for performing X-ray examination of large items such as International container units is formed as an installation comprising housings for one or a plurality of X-ray sources such as linear accelerators which in operation transmit a continuous beam of radiation across a conveyor along which the units to be inspected are displaced either continuously or incrementally. The radiation transmitted through a container is detected in a folded sensor screen or array extending on one side and over the position occupied by a container under inspection. The sensor screen or array produces optical signals which are converted into electrical signals by a photo-diode array or a camera system such as a television camera, and transmitted as pulse coded electrical signals by a coding transfer unit to display screens and signal recording equipment where an image of the transmitted information can be displayed and/or recorded for further use.