Abstract: A method comprises: performing training and testing of an initial machine model to create a final machine model, wherein the training and testing use focal loss; performing detection of dead detector elements in a digital detector of a second digital radiographic (DR) imaging system using the final machine model; and determining whether to replace or keep the digital detector based on the detection. An apparatus comprises: a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory and configured to: perform training and testing of an initial machine model to create a final machine model, wherein the training and testing use focal loss; perform detection of dead detector elements in a digital detector of a second digital radiographic (DR) imaging system using the final machine model; and determine whether to replace or keep the digital detector based on the detection.