This article provides technical details regarding the different GE MRI magnet types. The GE MRI continuum features MRI scanner designs that allow system upgrades without the need to replace the magnet. GE MRI machines for sale on the secondary imaging market may be a great option for your imaging center, if you know what you are buying. Learn more about the magnets and MRI scanner models below to see which configuration is ideal for your imaging center.

Are you researching the purchase of a new MRI?

See our in-depth analysis for all GE MRI Machine Models. We compare technical specifications, imaging capabilities and key features for every MRI in the GE Healthcare product lineup.

*GE MRI magnet technical specifications and system upgrade compatibility listed below.

What Are The Different GE MRI Magnet Types?

1. GE 1.0T and 1.5T SIII Magnet (S3)

The first generation of MRI systems by GE Healthcare. The S3 magnet features a passive shielded magnet cooled by a 10k coldhead and compressor assembly. This magnet is compatible with GE Signa Horizon LX, GE Signa Excite MRI, and can be adapted for compatibility with newer models.

Debuting in the early 90s, this GE MRI magnet type quickly became renowned in the medical imaging market for producing some of the highest quality images in a 1.5T MRI. Its use of passive shielding ensured a stable magnetic field, preventing drift from the center frequency. Although advancements in power and liquid helium efficiency led to its discontinuation, this magnet type continues to positively impact patient care in many world-class medical facilities.

GE SIII Magnet (S3)Shipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight (includes 2200lbs shipping crate)21,400 lbs.
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Air-ride trailer*, Train, Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load2 G’s
Maximum Transit Time (Warm)14 Days
Magnet Dimensions94.00″ L x 94.48″ W x 104.8.” H
Bore Width55 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa Horizon 5x, GE Signa LX 9x
*Personnel must identify and refrain from installing magnets transported using a non-air ride trailer in mobile MRI units.

2. GE 1.0T and 1.5T SIV (S4) Magnet

GE SIV Magnet (S4)Shipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight (includes 2200lbs shipping crate)19,300 lbs.
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Air-ride trailer*, Train, Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load2 G’s
Maximum Transit Time (Cold)21 Days
Magnet Dimensions92.40″ L x 87.53″ W x 100.34″ H
Bore Width60 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa Horizon 5x, GE Signa LX 9x, GE Signa Excite 11x
*Personnel must identify and refrain from installing magnets transported using a non-air ride trailer in mobile MRI units.

3. GE 1.0T and 1.5T SV (S5) Magnet

GE SV Magnet (S5)Shipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight (includes 2200lbs shipping crate)18,000 lbs.
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Air-ride trailer*, Train, Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load2 G’s
Maximum Transit Time (Cold)21 Days
Magnet Dimensions87.75″ L x 87.98″ W x 97.76″ H
Bore Width60 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa LX 9x, GE Signa Excite 11x
*Personnel must identify and refrain from installing magnets transported using a non-air ride trailer in mobile MRI units.

4. GE 1.0T and 1.5T CX Magnet

GE MRI Machine: CX Magnet
CX 1.5T and 1.0T MagnetShipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight (includes 2200lbs shipping crate)1.5T 11.000 lbs. (1.0T 10,100 lbs.)
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Air-ride trailer*, Train, Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load1.2 G’s
Maximum Transit Time (Warm or Cold)15 Days
Magnet Dimensions87.75″ L x 87.98″ W x 97.76″ H
Bore Width60 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa LX 9x, GE Signa Excite 11x, GE Signa Excite II, GE Signa Excite HD
*Personnel must identify and refrain from installing magnets transported using a non-air ride trailer in mobile MRI units.

5. GE 1.0T and 1.5T LCC (CXK4) Magnet

GE MRI Machine: LCC CXK4 Magnet

LCC CXK4 magnet features a high efficiency cryogen cooling system. The CXK4 magnet features a Sumitomo coldhead and compressor assembly that operates at 4 kelvin for maximum liquid helium efficiency.

GE 1.5T and 1.0T LCC (CXK4) MagnetShipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight (includes 2200 lbs shipping crate)12,000 lbs.
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Air-ride trailer*, Train, Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load1.2 Gs
Maximum Transit Time (Warm or Cold)15 Days
Magnet Dimensions94.00″ L x 81.14″ W x 91.75″ H
Bore Width60 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa Excite, GE Signa Excite II, GE Signa Excite HD, GE Signa HDi, GE Signa HDx, GE Signa HDe, GE Signa Excite HDxt
*Personnel must identify and refrain from installing magnets transported using a non-air ride trailer in mobile MRI units.

Click here for our MRI machine price list to see updated pricing and expert purchasing guide.

6. GE 3T Long Bore 940 Active Shield Magnet

GEMS 3T/940 Active Shielded MagnetShipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight28,600 lbs. (Magnet and Pallet: 29,700 lbs.)
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Trailer (Air-Ride Only), Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load5 Gs
Maximum Transit Time (Warm)15 Days
Magnet Dimensions102.4″ L x 102.4″ W x 100.8″ H (140.75″ Horizontal Clearance)
Bore Width60 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa Excite, GE Signa Excite II, GE Signa Excite HD, GE Signa HDi, GE Signa HDx, GE Signa HDe, GE Signa Excite HDxt

7. GE 3T LCC Active Shielded Magnet

GE 3T LCC300 Active Shielded MagnetShipping and Handling Information
Shipping Weight25,000 lbs. (Magnet and Pallet: 29,700 lbs.)
Maximum Tilt30 deg.
Allowable Transport MethodsAirplane, Trailer (Air-Ride Only), Boat
Forklift AccessibilityYes
Maximum Shock Load5 Gs
Maximum Transit Time (Warm or Cold)15 Days
Magnet Dimensions102.4″ L x 102.4″ W x 91.75″ H (140.75″ Horizontal Clearance)
Bore Width70 cm
GE MRI System Upgrade CompatibilityGE Signa Excite, GE Signa Excite II, GE Signa Excite HD, GE Signa HDi, GE Signa HDx, GE Signa HDe, GE Signa Excite HDxt

Conclusion

GE MRI magnets are designed with patient care and ease of service in mind. GE MRI scanners for sale are priced according to the magnet type and hardware configuration. This guide provides clarity when deciding which GE MRI machine is the best fit for your imaging needs. Learn more about GE MRI machines using the links provided below.

Additional Resources

Subscribe To Our Newsletter To Stay Up To Date With The Latest News, Exclusive Offers, And Giveaways!

The information provided by MRIPETCTSOURCE (“we,” “us,” or “our”) on https://www.medicalimagingsource.com (the “Site”) is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHALL WE HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND INCURRED AS A RESULT OF THE USE OF THE SITE OR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THE SITE. YOUR USE OF THE SITE AND YOUR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION ON THE SITE IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Larry Lopez

Larry is a biomedical imaging specialist with more than 16 years of professional experience in MRI, CT, and PET system installation, calibration, quality assurance, and advanced troubleshooting. As the founder, digital creator, and lead author of MRIPETCTSOURCE, he produces educational content designed to elevate the skills of technologists, engineers, and imaging center operators. Larry also serves as the chief technical advisor and lead web developer for MedicalImagingSource.com, where he oversees the accuracy, technical depth, and clinical relevance of all published resources. His work integrates field expertise with clear, evidence-based explanations to support both professionals and patients. Connect with Larry on social media: LinkedIn | YouTube | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook

XACT Imaging: The Best of X-ray and Ultrasound

A UCI research team pioneered X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography (XACT), a novel imaging modality that…

1 week

Best MRI-Safe Jewelry & Piercing Retainers (What’s Actually Safe)

Home Learning Hub MRI MRI Patient Resources Best MRI-Safe Jewelry & Piercing Retainers (What’s Actually…

3 months

MRI Laser Positioning: Why MRI Scanners Use Class 2 Lasers for Patient Landmarking

Home Learning Hub MRI MRI Patient Resources MRI Laser Positioning: Why MRI Scanners Use Class…

3 months

CT Ring Artifacts Explained

Home Learning Hub CT CT Tech Resources CT Ring Artifacts Explained Everything CT technologists need…

3 months

How X-Rays Work

Home Learning Hub Patient Resources Radiology https://www.medicalimagingsource.com/how-x-rays-work X-rays have been an essential diagnostic tool for…

3 months

Medical Imaging Media Gallery | MRIPETCTSOURCE

Home Learning Hub Imaging Center Resources Licensable Media Medical Imaging Media Gallery | MRIPETCTSOURCE MRI,…

5 months