A scanning line detector according to the present invention uses a detector with a linear arrangement of detection elements that is moved along a range of diffracted x-ray directions to collect data across a multidimensional detection area. The scanning line detector allows for the simulation of a two-dimensional detector system without the need for a two-dimensional detector. The detector may follow a desired path to simulate a desired shape, such as a cylinder. A slit may be included to limit the detector line width, and a scatter shield may be used to minimize noise from air-scattered x-rays. The detector may also use a specially designed monochromator for conditioning the diffracted x-rays. The detector may be rotatable about an axis parallel to a direction along which x-rays are diffracted, allowing it to be used in different orientations.