A method and apparatus for bipolar and self DC-erase write of servo marks. The shape of the radiation image storage panel is asymmetric with respect to a center axis of the radiation image storage panel, which center axis extends in an antero-posterior direction of the radiation image storage panel, such that front and back surfaces of the radiation image storage panel can be clearly discriminated from each other. The chuck top preferably is provided with a heating member. Thus the overall or effective stress on the substrate is reduced.