Our thanks to TechNation for featuring Pronk Technologies in a recent roundtable discussion about test equipment! Pronk’s Greg Alkire joined other leading biomed experts to talk about test equipment features that HTM professionals should look for, important elements for test equipment manufacturers, and the one piece of test equipment every HTM professional needs, among other topics.
Roundtable: Test Equipment
TechNation reached out to several healthcare technology management professionals for input regarding test equipment for this month’s roundtable feature article. Participating in the discussion are Pronk Technologies Vice President of Sales and Marketing Greg Alkire; Radcal Co-Directors Global Sales Melodie Eberhart and Steve Jack (E&J); Netech Lead Electrical Engineer Rayas Ramidal; IMT.Analytics Inc. Business Development Director Kerwin Sanger; Bird Technologies Test and Measurement Performance Product Manager Michelle Specht; and BC Group International Vice President of Sales and Marketing Tim Welby.
Q: What is one piece of test equipment every HTM professional needs and why?
Alkire: The HTM field is very diverse, and so narrowing it down to one piece of equipment depends upon the biomedical engineer’s particular job. A compact electrical safety analyzer like the Safe-T Sim is the basis for most medical device testing requirements. Also, a complete vital signs simulation system that is flexible in its features and able to test any type of vital signs monitor is key. For those specializing in servicing infusion pumps, having very accurate measurements using an analyzer compatible with any type of infusion device is a must. At Pronk, our test equipment solutions are tailored to meet those wide range of needs for a biomedical engineer.
E&J: A versatile X-ray test meter designed to adapt to new technology. Radcal’s Accu-Gold+ Touch Basic and Professional X-ray QA meters meet both the users need for quick checks and in-depth Excel Reporting tasks. These meters, coupled with our brand new AG3 software, offer users machine-specific preset profiles. These profiles provide the user with single exposure results without having to do manual instrument or software setting changes.
Ramidal: A leakage analyzer. The first step in biomedical equipment testing should be leakage verification of the unit under test. This vital step ensures the unit, and all connections, are not inadequate and fully functional prior to further testing.
Specht: For HTM professionals working with MRI machines, a dedicated MRI RF power measurement test kit is an essential piece of test equipment that ensures the safety and optimal performance of MRI machines and adherence to regulatory standards. Having such specialized equipment is crucial for the detailed and sensitive nature of MRI technology, where precision and accuracy are paramount. Ensuring RF power output is accurate and consistent, which is crucial for obtaining clear images and safeguarding patient safety.
Welby: A safety analyzer with built-in auto-sequencing; both fixed and custom. Along with Bluetooth capabilities to run the tests from an app and capture the readings without having to write the results manually; SA-2600.
Q: What are some test equipment features biomeds should look for when purchasing?
Alkire: Biomedical engineers need to complete testing and also document their work. The ability to capture test results wirelessly into a complete electronic report improves accuracy and eliminates manual documentation. Pronk’s Mobilize Wireless Solution provides biomeds this ability plus they can wirelessly control the test equipment and capture all the test results into the Mobilize App for a comprehensive, automated electronic report. Mobilize operates as an open platform and is capable of integrating with other manufacturers’ test equipment, such as flow analyzers from TSI Incorporated and some of the most popular defibrillator analyzers on the market.
E&J: In the field of diagnostic X-ray QA “ease of use” is very important. The fewer meter settings the user has to change will save time and money. Preset profiles for quicker measurement time is essential. Being able to capture multiple regions of interest with one exposure is a game changer. Selecting a meter that is a standalone that also has computer connectivity allowing for report generation improves productivity.
Ramidal: Accuracy and reliability of the unit being purchased. Ease of use, in a fast-paced environment biomeds want equipment that is easy to use with minimal training requirements. Connectivity, with modern technology, pens and paper are slowly being replaced with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Biomeds require instant test results that can be printed or emailed at the push of a button. Compatibility, the unit should be upgradeable if necessary to fit the needs of medical equipment manufacturers who are always evolving and adding features to their products, whether it’s new testing or new test parameters. Biomedical test equipment should be able to test and provide accurate results.
Sanger: Ease of use, accuracy, reliability, automation of workflow, data capture and reporting capability. Today’s biomeds face an almost unsurmountable number of devices that require maintenance and service. Anything that can gain efficiency in testing and reporting during that service is invaluable in saving time, and accurately reporting the results.
Specht: Biomedical engineers/technicians should prioritize accuracy, ease of use and portability when selecting test equipment for medical device maintenance and safety assurance. Accurate tools are essential for ensuring devices operate within established safety parameters. Ease of use is vital, as user-friendly interfaces, clear displays and straightforward operation enables techs to conduct tests efficiently and minimize the likelihood of user error. Portability is crucial and convenient in conducting on-the-spot assessments across various health care settings.
Welby: Equipment that is portable, Bluetooth capable with an app (myBC Mobile) to improve throughput and reduce transcription errors, confidence in its accuracy, and upgradable without the need to purchase a new piece of equipment, i.e. adding a Bluetooth adapter instead of having to purchase a new piece of equipment to have Bluetooth capabilities.
Q: What are the most important things to look for in a test equipment manufacturer?
Alkire: It is important to select products with high reliability and with a strong warranty to back it up. Also, look for test equipment that is designed to serve the rapidly evolving needs for both detailed electronic reports, as well as expandable capabilities and features. The test equipment needs to be very durable inside and out to meet the rigors of the health care environment. These are the cornerstones of our philosophy in providing an industry-best, standard four-year warranty. Pronk is the only biomedical test equipment manufacturer that engineers all product designs to pass drop tests of 50 times from 3 feet in order to prevent unnecessary downtime.
E&J: Since your test equipment represents a major investment that is critical to your business for many years to come, one should look for a partner who is proven, stable, reliable and established. Consider the life cycle of the relationship including service, repair and calibration that are critical to operating and maintaining test equipment over the long run. As diagnostic imaging continues to grow and evolve, the requirements of your test equipment may grow and will likely evolve as well. One should select test equipment from a line that is modular, interchangeable and extensible to meet changing needs.
Ramidal: Customer service, lead times, customer rating, warranty provided, servicing units (repairs and recalibration), cost of the products offered and location.
Sanger: The manufacturer should be one with experience and expertise in the field of biomedical devices. Many companies simply acquire or develop devices to sell without a true understanding of the end user’s needs. The manufacturer should also be very customer-focused before and after the sale. They should be responsive and supportive of their customers.
Specht: When selecting a test equipment manufacturer, focus primarily on the quality and reliability of their products to ensure they meet the highest industry standards. Ensure the products are not only reliable but also incorporate advanced features, enhancing precision and efficiency. Additionally, compliance with regulatory standards is crucial, indicating that their technology meets the required safety and performance benchmarks.
Welby: Are you paying for unnecessary features? Having several model choices available could reduce unnecessary spending and keep dollars in your capital budget.
Q: Can you briefly tell readers about one product or update your company offers HTM professionals?
Alkire: We are excited to introduce our new product, Pressure MAX Digital Pressure Meter. It features positive, negative and differential pressure measurements for gas and fluids with extreme accuracy and performance specs plus wireless documentation of test results. It is so compact (1.25” x 2.6” x 3.3”) that it fits into a shirt pocket and is battery-operated. It comes with two independent pressure channels: Narrow Port (-300 to 400 mmHg) and Wide Port (-14 to 100 PSI). Combining this extraordinary range and extreme accuracy makes Pressure MAX the most versatile and advanced meter in our industry, eliminating the need to purchase multiple pressure meters.
E&J: Radcal is excited to announce our new AG3 software platform for Accu-Gold Digitizers and all Touch Pro Meters. The enhanced user interface allows users to quickly begin measurement sessions and added useful methods for collecting more data in less time. The AG3 software adds profiles for many diagnostic and mammography machines. Profiles enable a user to choose a pre-set, optimized set of parameter settings eliminating time spent by users selecting settings such as anode/filter combinations, trigger threshold, end delay and more.
Ramidal: One of the most advanced, versatile and accurate units we currently supply in the HTM market is the EXPMT 2000A. A compact pacemaker analyzer that is portable and rechargeable with a large display and high accuracy. This unit can be used to test dual chamber pacemakers (atrial and ventricular) as well as transthoracic pacemakers. A definite must-have for all HTM Professionals.
Sanger: Our biggest update is our upcoming grand opening of our new U.S. facility that will provide sales, service and calibrations for all our devices. We, and many of our customers, have been looking forward to its opening for some time and it’s finally here!
Specht: Bird’s MRI3T Power Measurement Kit is an invaluable tool for HTM professionals, ensuring optimal performance and safety of MRI machines through measurement accuracy and calibration. Not only does it facilitate accurate and reliable testing of RF power output, crucial for clear imaging and patient safety, but it also plays a pivotal role in the routine maintenance of MRI systems. Our kit aids in identifying potential issues before they escalate, confirming that the MRI machines are operating within the specified regulatory and manufacturer guidelines. Bird’s MRI3T Kit not only assures accurate measurements but contributes to the longevity and reliable operation of MRI technology by streamlining maintenance processes.
Welby: BC Group continues to innovate and produce new pieces of equipment to meet the needs of the HTM community i.e., new portable single channel infusion pump analyzer with Bluetooth built in; IPA-3100.
Q: What else do you think TechNation readers need to know about test equipment going into 2024?
Alkire: Test equipment evolution will continue in the coming year. Pronk will continue to expand its product offerings including the Mobilize Wireless Solution which is rapidly becoming the industry standard by improving the speed and accuracy of testing any type of medical device. This complete solution provides the ability to execute the test procedures with built-in smart checklists that automate the testing. It generates electronic reports automatically as the PM is being completed with the ability to print out a PM sticker and transmit the reports to a CMMS/database all wirelessly.
E&J: It is important for today’s professionals to consider the broader aspects of how their instruments are used. The days of hand copying numbers into a lab book are fast disappearing. Look for a partner willing to tailor your instrument, software and service to your individual needs. The time savings and improved user experience are well worth the effort.
Ramidal: There will be more advanced test units going into 2024 that will offer more features, focus on EEG testing is an up-and-coming market. I am certain we will see more of this type of testing equipment as well as more connectivity and advanced features on other biomedical test equipment.
Sanger: IMT.Analytics has a complete line of gas flow and pressure analyzers and meters, and test lungs to support the needs of biomeds throughout the hospital. We continue to innovate and develop new features and capabilities that allow our devices to grow and adapt to the changing needs of our customers. The purchase of one of our devices is an investment in your test equipment now and into the future.
Specht: The integration of advanced technology into test equipment, like our Bird MRI3T Kit, is a prevailing trend. HTM professionals should anticipate more sophisticated, user friendly and data-centric tools. These innovations are geared towards ensuring not only the accuracy of measurements but also the ease of analyzing and interpreting data to make informed decisions on equipment maintenance and safety.
Welby: With the eminent retirement of many baby boomers, the biomed industry is preparing to do more with less people. This gives way to the topic of how to retain high accuracy and increase throughput. Bluetooth capabilities in testing equipment should play a major part in supplying a tool to accomplish increased throughput while retaining high accuracy.