At present there is on our market a number of apparatuses for phototherapy from different manufacturers and therefore it is useful to be oriented and to knowhow to proceed with the selection of a suitable type. It is probably correct that information in the press reappears after certain intervals because there are new types of equipment and new conditions which must be met when purchasing the equipment. Above all we must know which therapeutic spectrum will be used - UVA, UVB, what are the sources in the equipment, high of low pressure, whether we shall use the apparatus for whole body irradiation or irradiation only of a certain part of the body and whether we shall select a type with a single spectrum or a combined one. In our reflections also other technical facts should play an important part, i.e. the reflex mirrors of the apparatus (preferably aluminium ones) and whether dosimetry forms part of the equipment. It is better to purchase an all-metal apparatus which has the necessary certificates, in particular a proclamation complying with the Government regulation No. 180/1998 Sb. Before making the purchase it is useful to become familiar with types of apparatuses produced during the last two years. In the conclusion the authors present some findings based on their longstanding practice.

        Key words: phototherapy - equipment - requirements - selection - our experience