 |
|
|
|
 Defibrillator/Pacemaker Analyzers |
| Impulse 6000D/7000DP Frequently Asked Question |
| What is the main difference between monophasic and biphasic waveforms? |
| The basic difference is the direction of current flow between the defibrillation pads. With a monophasic waveform, the current flows in only one direction. With a biphasic waveform, the current flows in one direction, then reverses and flows in the opposite direction. Lower energy is used in biphasic waveforms. |
| Are all biphasic waveforms alike? |
| No. Different waveforms perform differently depending on their shape, duration, voltage, current, and response to impedance. Different biphasic waveforms are designed to work at different energies. Impulse 6000D/7000DP measures the monophasic waveforms used in the legacy defibrillators, biphasic waveforms used in current technology, as well as pulsed-biphasic waveforms, an emerging technology. |
| How does the Ansur test automation plug-in work? |
| Ansur test automation systems allow a solution-based approach to complete testing of the medical device under test. Ansur helps you create standard work using the test template/sequence (which is based on your written test procedure) and integrates all test results into a single test report that can be printed or digitally archived. Ansur manages test procedures by allowing both manual and visual automated test sequences. Ansur also comes with generic test procedures so you can begin automated testing immediately. |
| Does Impulse 7000DP test both transcutaneous and transvenous pacers? |
| Impulse 7000DP tests the full function of transcutaneous pacers, but not transvenous pacers. For transvenous pacer testing, try the SigmaPace 1000 or DALE400 analyzers. |
| What is the purpose of the fan located on the back of the Impulse 6000D/7000DP? |
|
The fan on the back of Impulse 6000D/7000DP is controlled by a thermostat IC. The thermostat utilizes an on/off control (i.e., not linear or continuous control). The thermostat IC is located next to the defibrillator load resistor.
There are two temperature thresholds. The lower threshold is set at about 40° C (104° F) and the upper threshold is set at about 50° C (122° F). When the temperature exceeds the low threshold, the fan turns on. When the temperature exceeds the upper threshold, a warning message is displayed and the unit will not make any further measurements until the temperature has dropped below the upper threshold. |
| How do I charge the battery? |
| Plug the battery charger accessory included with your analyzer into the charger input on the rear panel and plug the mains cord into the charger unit and into mains power. The charge-status LED, visible from the rear panel, will glow red to indicate the battery is charging. The LED will turn green when charging is complete. A full recharge takes approximately four hours or less. |
| The charge-status LED on the rear panel does not glow red when I plug in the charger. What's wrong? |
| If the Impulse 6000D/7000DP is turned on, make sure the "Charge Battery" setting is set to "Yes" on the "Set Up: Battery" screen (refer to the operating manual for details). If the Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit is turned off, the LED should glow red when the external charger is connected correctly and mains power is present. |
| The charge-status LED blinks red continuously. What does this mean? |
|
A blinking red charge-status LED indicates a pending charge and should normally last a few seconds before turning solid red. If the blinking continues, the battery-charging circuit has determined that conditions are not correct to initiate the battery-charging cycle. The battery will not be charged if the battery temperature is too cold or too hot. The battery should be charged in an ambient temperature of 10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
Also, the battery will not be charged if the battery voltage is too low, which can happen if the Impulse 6000/7000DP has been stored for an extended period of time with a fully-discharged battery. In the "Charge Pending" mode, the battery-charging circuit charges the battery at a low rate, which will eventually bring the battery voltage high enough for the normal charge cycle to begin. |
| On the "Set Up: Battery" screen, the battery charge level remains at "Power = 50 %" even after charging the battery for a few hours. What's wrong? |
| On the Impulse 6000D/7000DP, the internal battery pack contains a gas-gauge IC that monitors the battery-charge level. This gas-gauge IC reports the charge level as one of sixteen levels, from 0 % to 100 %. The Impulse 6000D/7000DP reports the battery-charge level in 5 % steps, from 0 % to 100 %. Therefore, five of the 5 % steps aren't used (15 %, 35 %, 50 %, 70 %, and 90 %). The "Power = 50%" message is an indication that the microprocessor was unable to communicate with the battery pack. If this message persists, the battery pack is probably defective. |
| After charging my unit completely (until the Charge Status LED turns green), the battery charge level still indicates less than 100 %. What's wrong? How do I get the charge level to read 100 %? |
|
The answer to this question is somewhat counterintuitive. Battery pack gas-gauge ICs, such as the one used in the Impulse 6000D/7000DP, use a complex algorithm to estimate battery-charge state, taking into account time, temperature, and current flow. The self-discharge estimation (i.e., how much charge the battery loses over time during periods of non-use, sometimes called "shelf-life") is particularly sensitive to battery chemistry, and the shelf-life of today's NiMH cells is significantly longer than the algorithm built into the gas-gauge ICs can accommodate.
When an Impulse 6000D/7000DP is left idle for a few weeks and then powered-on, the battery charge level might be reported as 55 % when the true charge level might be 80 %. If the battery is then completely charged, which requires a 20 % increase in battery charge level, the charge level is only reported as 75 % (55 % plus 20 %).
To correct the reported charge level, the Impulse 6000D/7000DP can be discharged to 0% before the next complete charge. To speed up the discharge, the backlight can be turned on and the operating mode set to DEFIB Energy, with the "Ready..." message displayed on the screen.
To keep the reported battery charge level as accurate as possible during extended periods of non-use, the Impulse 6000D/7000DP should be left connected to mains power via the battery charger with the unit powered off in an ambient temperature of 15° C to 26° C (60° F to 78° F). This will continuously trickle-charge the battery (the charge-status LED on the rear panel will be green) to keep both the actual and estimated battery charge level at 100 %. |
| Is it OK to leave my Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit connected to the battery charger when not in use? |
|
Yes. Actually, to keep the reported battery charge level as accurate as possible during extended periods of non-use, it is recommend that the Impulse 6000D/7000DP be left connected to mains power via the battery charger with the unit powered off, in an ambient temperature of 15° C to 26° C (60° F to 78° F). This will continuously trickle-charge the battery (the charge-status LED on the rear panel will be green) to keep both the actual and estimated battery charge level at 100 %.
If the Impulse 6000D/7000DP cannot be kept connected to the battery charger during periods of non-use, the battery should be charged at least once a month. A unit with a discharged battery that is stored for an extended period of time will result in the battery becoming over-discharged, which is likely to result in permanent damage to the battery. |
| Should I drain the battery completely before charging my Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit? |
| This is not necessary. The battery does not exhibit a “memory effect”. After multiple partial charge-discharge cycles, or if the unit is unused for an extended period of time without the charger active, the battery level indication may become inaccurate (i.e., out-of-sync with the actual battery charge level). Completely discharging the unit before charging it will resynchronize the battery charge level indication. |
| Can I always count on getting nine hours of continuous battery operation on a fully-charged battery? |
- Age of battery pack. The battery pack will lose some charge capacity over time.
- Use of the backlight display function. This option discharges the battery pack faster.
- 3. Operating the unit at the upper end of the specified operating temperature range, causing the internal fan to power on more often. This may especially be observed with multiple, rapid, high-energy defibrillator pulse discharges into the unit.
|
| Will the battery need to be replaced at some point? |
| Yes. The manufacturer of the NiMH battery cells used in the Impulse 6000D/7000DP specifies a typical loss of 10 % of battery charge after 500 charge-discharge cycles, which is approximately two years of daily use. Battery charge capacity also degrades with time, so even a seldom-used unit will lose some battery charge capacity. The Impulse 6000D/7000DP battery power feature was designed conservatively to maximize the probability of the battery pack performing satisfactorily well beyond two years. |
| Can I replace the battery myself? |
| No. Replacement of the battery pack in the Impulse 6000D/7000DP requires disassembly of the unit. Impulse 6000D/7000DP owners who send their units to a Fluke Biomedical Authorized Service Center for periodic calibration may want to consider requesting replacement of the battery pack as preventative maintenance, which can be performed for a nominal charge. |
| Does the condition of the battery affect the calibration/specifications of the unit? |
| No. The Impulse 6000D/7000DP was designed and tested to meet all its performance specifications at any battery-charge level when operating from mains power or when operating from mains power while charging the battery. |
| Can I use a different battery charger than the one supplied with the unit? |
| No. For safe and reliable operation, the battery charger supplied with the Impulse 6000D/7000DP MUST be used when operating from mains power, or when operating and charging the battery at the same time. |
| I own another Fluke product that came with a 12 V automotive ("cigarette lighter") adapter that fits the DC input jack on my Impulse 6000D/7000DP. Can I use this adapter to operate or charge the Impulse 6000D/7000DP from a 12 V vehicle battery? |
| No. For safe and reliable operation, the battery charger MUST have a good earth ground when connected to the Impulse 6000D/7000DP, and vehicle electrical systems inherently lack an earth ground. For battery charging only (with the Impulse 6000D/7000DP turned off, and no other connections to the Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit other than at the charger input jack), attempting to charge from a 12 V vehicle gives inconsistent results and therefore cannot be recommended. |
| Can I operate or charge my Impulse 6000D/7000DP from a 12 V vehicle battery using an AC inverter to power the charger that came with my Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit? |
| No. For safe and reliable operation, the battery charger MUST have a good earth ground when connected to the Impulse 6000D/7000DP, and vehicle electrical systems inherently lack an earth ground. For battery charging only (with the Impulse 6000D/7000DP turned off, and no other connections to the Impulse 6000D/7000DP unit other than at the charger input jack), using a DC-to-AC inverter to power the battery charger may yield consistent battery charging, depending on the quality of the inverter used. As of this writing, Fluke Biomedical cannot recommend the use of a DC-to-AC inverter for battery-charging-only use with the Impulse 6000D/7000DP. |
| What are the IEC 60601-2-4 and AAMI DF80 standards about variable patient test loads? |
| Since different patients have different testloads (resistors), the two standards require manufactures to test their defibrillators on different patient resistances (25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, and 175 ohms) to ensure proper current is delivered to different sizes of patients. The Impulse 6000D/7000DP optional testloads were specifically designed to allow manufacturers and end users to comply with this portion of the standards. |
| How does the Impulse 7010 work with the Analyzer? |
| Connect the Impulse 7010 output connectors to the input connectors of Analyzer as shown in the figure below. The various connection combinations available through the Impulse 7010’s rotary switch provide eight different loads for a defibrillator discharge. |
| Does the Impulse 7010 work with other defibrillator analyzers other than Impulse 7000DP? |
| The Impulse 7010 only works with Fluke Biomedical’s newest defibrillator/external pacer analyzer, the Impulse 7000DP. It will not function with legacy Fluke Biomedical analyzers such as Impulse 4000, QED6, QA40/45, or with competitor products. |
| What does the Ansur plug-in do? |
| When combined with the high-end functionality improvements of the Ansur test automation system, your Fluke Biomedical analyzer provides a solution-based approach to complete analysis of the medical device under test. Fluke Biomedical test equipment with Ansur automation solutions create standard work using test templates/sequences based on customer’s written test procedures, manage test procedures by allowing both manual and visual automated test sequences, and integrates all test results into a single test report, which can be printed or archived. |
|
| Impulse 3000 (DALE900) Defibrillator Analyzer |
| When using the defib module on the medtester 5000C and I discharge the defibrillator, the joule values are displayed on the Impulse 3000 or Dale 900 screen but not on the medtester screen. What is wrong? |
| There is a MEDT selection on the menus of the Impulse 3000 and Dale 900. Make sure that you have pushed this button, that the baud rate is set to 2400 and that you are using the proper cable. The correct cable to use with the Impulse 3000 and Dale 900 is Fluke part number 2199346. The older part number was 3010-0300. |
| Are the Impulse 3000 or Dale 900 capable of testing pacers? |
| No, you would need an Impulse 4000 or a QED-6H to test defibrillator transcutaneous pacers. A SigmaPace 1000 is capable of testing both defibrillator transcutaneous pacers and internal transvenous pacers such as Medtronics pacers. |
| Will the Dale 900/ Impulse 3000 test biphasic defibs? |
| Yes, all Dale 900 defib analyzers will test biphasic defibs. The Impulse 3000 will test biphasic defibs depending on the firmware version. The firmware version is briefly displayed at power up. Firmware versions earlier than version 1.08 were not tested but are considered to be incompatible. Version 1.10 is also not compatible. These versions will generally give you inconsistent and usually low joule output readings when you fire your biphasic defib. Versions 1.11 higher will be compatible with biphasic defibs. If in doubt call customer support at Fluke Biomedical at (800)648-7952 or call Fluke's service center at (888)993-5853 option 1 for to send your unit in for calibration and upgrade. |
| Can you control a Dale 900/Impulse 3000 by remote commands from a computer terminal? |
| No, the Dale 900/Impulse 3000 has no remote command set. |
| Can the Impulse 3000 be upgraded to an Impulse 4000 so I can do pacer tests? |
| No, there is no upgrade path from an Impulse 3000 to an Impulse 4000. |
| What is included if I purchase option 1? |
| Option1 includes ECG waveforms and arrhythmias plus several EMT scenarios. These scenarios allow you to convert various arrhythmias back to a normal sinus rhythm after the defib fires. |
| When do I switch from low range to high range? |
| Use low range at 50 joules and below and high range for over 50 joules. |
| Will the Dale 900/Impulse 3000 test an AED defib? |
| Yes, after you push ENERGY you can push VFIB to send a vfib signal out through the pads which would cause the AED defib to fire. There are several types of defib electrode adapters available. |
| What is the purpose of the TEST button on the Dale 900/Impulse 3000 ENERGY menu? |
| The ENERGY menu of the Dale 900/Impulse 3000 has a TEST button that is used as a self-test or basic circuitry test. With the low range selected, the Joules reading on the lower left line of the Dale 900/Impulse 3000 display should read ~4.0 J. With the high range selected, the Joules reading should read 100.0 J +/- 4.0 J. While this is not an absolute calibration test, if your Dale 900/Impulse 3000 is starting to drift away from these values you should send your Dale 900/Impulse 3000 in to the Fluke service department for calibration. | |
| Impulse 4000 Defibrillator and Transcutaneous Pacemaker Analyzer |
| Can the Impulse 4000 properly test a Medtronics 5348 or 5388 pacer or similar internal pacer? |
| No, you can not properly test an internal pacer, such as those made by Medtronics, with an Impulse 4000. The SigmaPace 1000 was made specifically for testing internal pacers. |
| What is the part number for the paddle adapters for testing AED or hands free defib output for Medtronics Physio Control defibrillators with the "Quik Combo" connection? |
| The paddle electrode adapters are very useful for testing AED or hands free defib testing. We do not recommend sticking defib electrode patches directly to the pads on the Impulse 4000. The part number for the Medtronics Physio Controls paddle electrode adapter is 2392249. |
| What is the part number for the paddle adapters for testing AED or hands free defibrillator output on Agilent/Philips defibrillators with the flat rectangular connector? |
| The paddle electrode adapters are very useful for testing AED or hands free defib testing. We do not recommend sticking defib electrode patches directly to the pads on the Impulse 4000. The part number for the Agilent/Philips paddle electrode adapter for the Impulse 4000 is 2201017. |
| What is the part number for the paddle adapters for testing AED or hands free defib output on Zoll Medical PD series, M series and AED Plus defibrillators with the two pin white connection? |
| The paddle electrode adapters are very useful for testing AED or hands free defib testing. We do not recommend sticking defib electrode patches directly to the pads on the Impulse 4000. The part number for the Zoll Medical PD series, M series and AED Plus paddle electrode adapter is 2199758. Note: To test the Zoll AED Plus defibrillator you will need both the above paddle electrode adapter and an auxiliary adapter available from Zoll Medical as their part number 8000-0804-01. |
| What is the purpose of the TEST button on the Impulse 4000 defib menu? |
| The defib menu of the Impulse 4000 has a TEST button that is used as a self-test or basic circuitry test. With the low range selected, the E or energy reading on the top right line of the Impulse 4000 display should read 4.0 J +/- 0.2 J. With the high range selected, the E or energy reading should read 100.0 J +/- 5.0 J. Please note: this is not an absolute calibration test. If your Impulse 4000 is starting to drift away from these values, you should send your Impulse 4000 to the Fluke service department for calibration. |
| Should I discharge the defibrillator while performing pacer tests with the pacer module inserted into the Impulse 4000? |
| No, there is no need to discharge the defibrillator when testing the pacer on a defibrillator. There is also a chance that you could damage the Impulse 4000, the pacer module or both if you discharge the defibrillator while the pacer module is inserted into the Impulse 4000. |
| How can I see "Capture" occur in the pacer test? button on the Impulse 4000 defib menu |
| Capture can only be viewed in the training scenarios. The training simulations are available by pushing TRAIN on the Page 2 of the Main Menu. |
| Will the Impulse 4000 test defibrillators with bi-phasic waveforms? |
| Yes, all firmware versions for the Impulse 4000 will correctly test the output from defibrillators using bi-phasic waveforms. |
| Using the defib module on the medtester 5000C when I fire the defibrillator the joule values are displayed on the Impulse 4000 screen but not on the medtester screen. What is wrong? |
| On Impulse 4000 Main Menu Page 2 there is a MEDT button that needs to be pushed to transfer data back to the medtester. Make sure that you have entered the baud rate at 2400 and that you are using the proper cable. The correct cable to use is Fluke part number 2200252. The older part number was 3010-0467. |
| I have no problem connecting the 5000C to the Impulse 4000 during defib tests using the 5000C defib module but the pacer module gives me a message that says "No Impulse 4000 Detected". What am I doing wrong that the pacer module will not connect to the Medtester 5000C? |
| Make sure that you are using COMM 2 on the medtester. The correct cable to use is Fluke part number 2200252. The older part number was 3010-0467. The baud rates on both COMM 2 of the Medtester and the Impulse 4000 need to be set at 2400 baud for the connection to be successful. When you use the defib module on the 5000C the baud rate should automatically change from any baud rate to 2400 baud by itself. Therefore whatever the baud rate was set at for COMM 2 you will still get a connection. This is not true when using the pacer module on the medtester. You will need to physically change the baud rate to 2400 baud in the UTIL menu under BAUD. Make sure that the Impulse 4000 is on Main Menu Page 1 when you start the autosequence in the medtester. |
| What is the part number for the charger for the Impulse 4000? |
| The part number for the Impulse 4000 charger is 2426360. | |
| SigmaPace™ 1000 External Pacemaker Analyzer |
| Can I test two single chamber external pacemakers at the same time with the SigmaPace1000? |
| No! The SigmaPace1000 is designed to test only one ventricular transcutaneous pacemaker or one transvenous pacemaker at a time. The transvenous pacemaker can be one of these types:
Single chamber-atrial type
Single chamber-ventricular type
Dual chamber atrial + ventricular type. The only restriction for dual-chamber transvenous-pacemaker testing is to separate the atrial and ventricular output pulses by at least 10 ms. This restriction does not limit the testing capabilities of the SigmaPace1000 because the minimum pacemaker-selectable AV interval (delay time) is >20 ms. |
| Will I damage the SigmaPace1000 if I inadvertently discharge a defibrillator across the front panel dual-channel-input jacks? |
| No! The SigmaPace1000 dual channel input jacks on the SigmaPace1000 are protected against an occasional application of a high-voltage defibrillator output. The analyzer's protection circuitry is designed to withstand accidental discharges at 360 J. |
| What types of pacemakers can you test with the SigmaPace1000? |
| The SigmaPace1000 is designed to test external cardiac pacemakers only. The two compatible types of external cardiac pacemakers are these:
Transcutaneous: This type of pacemaker (typically built into a cardiac resuscitation unit with a defibrillator) has output currents ranging from 30 to approximately 200 mA. External adhesive electrode pads are attached across the patient's intact chest to deliver the energy. (The Impulse 4000 also tests this category of external pacemaker.)
Transvenous: This typically small handheld unit, powered by a single 9-volt DC battery, generates pacing pulses at levels from 1 to approximately 25 mA. This type of pacemaker is available in many different configurations from simple single chamber models to more sophisticated AV sequential dual chamber models. The pacing electrodes are introduced via the patient's venous circulatory system via a temporary indwelling cardiac catheter connected directly to the heart. |
| Can I test internal pacemakers with the SigmaPace1000? |
| No. The SigmaPace1000 was designed to test a wide range of external pacemaker parameters. It is not intended for use with internal pacemakers. Manufacturers of internal cardiac pacemakers offer sophisticated test systems that are designed for their specific brand and range of available internal pacemaker models. These test systems typically perform specialized functions such as tissue impedance measurement, and also program operational parameters of these implantable cardiac pacemakers. These diagnostic test systems are utilized during surgical implantation procedures and have direct contact to the patient's heart. Fluke Biomedical's FDA 510(k) submission reflects this "external only" intended use. | | |
| Electrical Safety Analyzers |
| 505 Pro Series Electrical Safety Analyzer |
| How do I know if I have a 505 PROM or a 505 PRORS? |
With the 505 powered on, press the "PROGRAM" button. If the unit beeps three times, it is not a RS. If the 505 "PROGRAM" led flashes and the display indicates PRO0, it is an RS.
Another way to determine this:
- Connect a personal computer running terminal emulation software (Example: MS Windows Hyperterminal) set to 2400 N 8 1 to com1 of the 505PRO
- Turn the 505 PRO on.
- Send the command "%U" (without quote marks).
- The 505 PRO should beep and the computer LED on the 505 PRO should illuminate and ok should be returned by the 505 PRO to the computer.
- Send the command "#ID" and press enter.
- Unit will return: Model, X.XX, options
- Example 505 PRO, 2.09, RS (note if RS is not returned, the RS232 option is not installed. Please contact the factory to purchase this option.)
|
| How do I reset the 505 Pro autosequences to factory defaults? |
1. Press the program key to enter the program mode.
2. Press the program key repeatedly until the display indicates the program BEFORE the one you want to set to the default settings.
3. Press the program key again and hold down for 10 seconds. The unit will start to beep at three seconds and continue until the defaults are retrieved and the display reads DEF. The factory settings are now restored for that program, only; all other programs remain the same.
NOTE: Releasing the program key during the 10-second restoration period will terminate the retrieval and advance to the next program. For programs 3 through 9, the factory default is open. |
| What is the "Line" error on the 505 Pro? do I know if I have a 505 PROM or a 505 PRORS |
| This message shows up if line voltage is applied to the external inputs (actually shows up with around 40 VAC applied). If this error shows up with nothing connected to the external input jacks the unit will need to be returned for service. |
| Is the 505 Pro unit CE or CSA etc listed? |
| This unit is ETL listed and conforms to UL standard 3101-1 in addition it is certified to CAN/CSA Standard C22.2 NO. 1010.1 |
| What cable do I need to communicate with the 505 PRORS? |
1. Serial cable, DB-9F to DP-9F part number 2392046
2. Serial printer cable DPU 414, DB-9F to DB-9F part number 2204485 |
| Why does my 505 Pro flash when I turn it on? |
- Upon power-up, the 505 Pro will display the software revision in an X.XX format, then automatically begin self-diagnostics; a one-second lamp test of all LEDs is performed as well as a one-second tone generation. The internal program memory and data memory also are tested for integrity.
- During power up, the 505 Pro measures the line polarity and the voltage of the outlet it is plugged into and will indicate an error if the polarity is incorrect. If the polarity of the wall receptacle is reversed or the ground is open, the four-digit display will indicate POL or GND. If both conditions occur, the display will indicate GND.
- If the wall receptacle polarity is reversed, the REV POL LED will flash when a reverse polarity test is performed on the device under test. If the wall receptacle ground is open, then the GND LED will flash during an open ground test on the device. The unit will not power-up if neutral line is open.
- After initialization is complete, the 505 Pro will default to the single lead ground wire resistance test. In this test the circuit ground will be internally connected to the ground pin of the front panel outlet. The power to the front panel receptacle will be off and if the red lead is left not connected to anything the display will flash OR.
| |
| ESA601 Electrical Safety Analyzer |
| When using the ESA601, how can one determine the status of the mains with no neon line monitors? |
| The ESA601 checks the mains for proper wiring and voltage upon power up. If a fault is detected, an error code will be displayed. |
| Does the ESA601 replace any existing Fluke Biomedical products |
| No, the function set is different from any other Fluke Biomedical safety analyzer. |
| Is the ESA601 upgradeable? |
| No, there is currently one version of the ESA601. In the future, there may be firmware and/or hardware enhancements available. Firmware enhancements can be done via computer download to the flash memory, by appropriate service personal. |
| Can the ESA601 satisfy IEC, AAMI, and VDE standards? |
| Yes, with the 1 A test current, 500 V insulation tests, auxiliary patient leakage, VDE differential current test, VDE equivalent device leakage test and VDE equivalent patient leakage, the ESA601 is capable of satisfying most standards. |
| Is the ESA601 available with different receptacles and power cords |
| Yes, Australian, Schuko, UK., and US., receptacles and power cords are installed as applicable to the country/geographic region to which it will ship. |
| Is the ESA601 available with different language overlays? |
| Yes, English, French, German, and Italian. |
| Can the ESA601 be automated? |
| Yes, the ESA601 can be fully operated via a PC with the ESA601 Controller software or by any terminal emulation program. |
| Does the ESA601 have printer output? |
| Yes, headers and test results can be printed using a serial printer. Fluke Biomedical offers the DPU414 (p/n 2248899) as an optional accessory. |
| Isn't the ESA601 an International product? Why would I want to purchase one of these to do work in the U.S.? |
| This universal safety analyzer helps you adapt to the industry changes. It is portable, rugged, and can test to standards that are gradually harmonizing. It also has software that allows the unit to run autosequences and store/document test results. |
| Is the ESA601 rated to test 20-A devices? |
| No, the ESA601 is only rated for 15-A operation. |
| Does the ESA601 have both ANSI/AAMI and IEC601 test loads? |
| Yes, you can select either the ANSI/AAMI or the IEC601 test load via the switch on the right side of the ESA601. |
| Can you test equipment current draw with the ESA601? |
| No, the ESA601 is not designed to measure the current being drawn by the device under test. |
| What is the significance of the ESA601's test positions with the yellow dots? |
| The five test positions with the yellow dots require you to push and hold the ISO or MAP switch, to apply a test voltage, to get a reading. |
| When using the ESA601, how do I zero the test lead for the earth or ground resistance tests? |
| To zero the test lead so that the display reads zero you must do the following steps. With the ESA601 in the Earth Resistance or Ground Wire Resistance position, connect the red test lead from the red signal jack into the green signal jack on the right side of the ESA601. Now press and release the switch on the upper-right front of the ESA601, to the upper position, OFFSET/ZERO. The unit will take a moment and then the display reads a string of zeroes. If your meter reads OL your lead has too much resistance. Try to zero another lead. |
| When using the ESA601, do I need to zero the lead resistance before every test. |
| No, the ESA601 will hold the zero point. You may want to zero the lead resistance if you disconnect the lead, change leads or if your test results are questionable. |
| How do I measure ground wire or earth resistance using the ESA601? |
| First, zero your lead resistance, if it has not already been zeroed. With the test lead in the red jack, connect the other end to a ground point on the equipment under test and then press and release OHMS FUNCTION switch in the MEASURE OHMS position. The unit should display a reading in about 3 seconds. You may want to test several points on the equipment under test to find the best ground point. | |
| medTester 5000C Electrical Safety Analyzer |
| How do I plug the Kelvin cable into the 5000C? |
| The Kelvin cable plugs into the two red jacks on the top left side of the 5000C when taking power-cord resistance or case-leakage readings. If you plug the Kelvin cable into any other jacks, your readings will be incorrect for case leakage, the current source will not be connected for power-cord resistance readings, and you will not get a resistance reading. |
| What is the purpose of the external leakage-test versus the internal leakage-test selections on the 5000C? |
| Under the safety-test selections there are two different types of safety tests: external leakage tests and internal leakage tests. The external leakage tests are used to test case-surface leakage. Since you are testing for leakage on the surface of the unit, you must first connect the Kelvin cable to the metal surface or a grounded lug on the unit under test. The other set of test positions are the internal-leakage tests. These tests will measure leakage that is on the ground wire inside of the power cord. The Kelvin cable does not need to be attached for this test. |
| When I am performing a power-cord resistance test, my 5000C display is flashing and the unit is beeping. Why is this happening? |
| The 5000C will flash #x.xxx and beep under two conditions when performing power-cord resistance readings. Either the resistance being measured is over 2000 m? or the measurement circuit is not completed. Check to see if the current-source LED light is on. If the light is on, the resistance may be over 2000 m?. If the current-source light is not on, check that you have the Kelvin cable plugged into the two red jacks on the top right of the 5000C, check that the unit under test is plugged into the receptacle on the 5000C, and that the ground pin on the power cord is intact. Then check for an intact ground path. You may need to attach the Kelvin cable to a different location on the case of the unit under test or a grounded lug. Note: When performing a power-cord resistance test you have the option to push SKIP if you do not want to continue with the power cord resistance test. The rest of the safety test will then be completed and your test will not be failed. |
| I am using my 5000C with a 202A LIM tester. What units am I reading on the 5000C display? |
| Although safety analyzers normally display the test results in µA, this is not true when using it with a 202A LIM tester. The 5000C display now is reading in mA so there is no need to convert the reading. Note: The medtester 5000C needs to be in the MANUAL ISOPWR test mode for use with a 202A LIM tester. The double banana connector on the 202A needs to be plugged into the 5000C correctly. If you look at the banana plug you will see that this cable has one connector on the double banana connector that has a tab with the letters GND stamped on it. This ground side of the double banana connector should be plugged into the black external input jack while the other side plugs into the red external input jack. |
| How do I remove the reverse polarity tests, power off tests, or open neutral tests for all of my safety tests? How can I restore the default test parameters? |
| Push CUSTOM on the second menu on the 5000C, then push the right arrow key, and then push INIT. On this menu select SAFETY and make your selections when prompted. Remember these selections will be changed on all of the safety tests. |
| How do I remove the reverse polarity tests, power off tests or open neutral tests for an individual safety test? How can I restore the default test parameters? |
| Push CUSTOM on the second menu on the 5000C, then push AUTOSEQ and then push SAFETY. On the next menu you can MAKE, VIEW or PRINT your safety autosequences. To change an individual safety test autosequence push MAKE and then select the test that you want to change. You will be first asked to rename the safety autosequence. You can use up to six letters or numbers for the name. You will then be prompted to accept several test parameters. The medtester 5000C will ask you if you want to KEEP or REMOVE all of the safety tests that can be performed by the 5000C. Note: Remember that you cannot edit an existing safety test. You can only make new safety tests. You may want to print your existing tests before making a new test. To restore your safety tests to their original parameters, choose CUSTOM, INIT, and then SAFETY. This will restore all safety autosequences to their original parameters. |
| I cannot change the date and time on my 5000C. It keeps changing back to the prior time. How do I set the time and date? |
| The newer medtester 5000Cs have a Clock Enable Switch on the right side of the 5000C. Go to the UTIL menu and push the CLOCK button. After you change the time and date, push a non-metallic probe through the lower right vent hole on the right side of the 5000C and push in the micro switch lever. Hold this lever in while pushing the STORE button on the menu. Now you can release both the switch and the STORE button. When you escape to the first menu, the clock should be running and the time and date should be correctly set. |
| Can I plug the medTester 5000C into a regular 15-A wall receptacle? |
| The medTester 5000C can be plugged into a 15-A wall receptacle only when using the 20 A to 15 A power-cord adapter, part number 2195732. |
| What is a Kelvin cable and how can I purchase one? the first menu, the clock should be running and the time and date should be correctly set. |
| A Kelvin cable is a coiled cable with a double banana-plug connector on one end and a clamp on the other end. This can be ordered from Fluke Biomedical, part number 2392617 |
| Can I measure leakage or power-cord resistance on a piece of equipment that has a power cord with only two conductors (hot and neutral) when it is plugged into the test receptacle on the 5000C? |
| No. If you plug a piece of equipment into the receptacle on a 5000C that has only two conductors, you will get no resistance or leakage measurements because there is no ground conductor. Power cord resistance and leakage measurements are taken through the ground wire. |
| What is the purpose of module 5 in a 5000C |
| Module 5 is called the Waveforms/Extended Testing module. Module 5 gives your medTester 5000C some useful testing abilities plus ECG, arrhythmia and performance waveforms. Without Module 5, a 5000C has ten built-in safety tests. With Module 5 installed in your 5000C, you will get an additional five blank safety tests that can be programmed to perform the exact safety test steps that you need to do without changing the integrity of the ten base safety tests. There are two additional tests which can be very helpful to you. The line monitor test will monitor the line voltage supplied to the receptacle that the 5000C is plugged into and record changes in voltage over extended periods of time. The environmental monitor allows you to record both ground potential voltage and resistance measurements between a common ground point and up to 99 other ground points. |
| The 5000C has only 10-lead, 3-lead and 4-lead safety tests. How do I test my 5-lead monitor? |
| To test a monitor with a 5-lead ECG set, use the 10-lead safety test. The fact that you did not attach the additional 5-V leads will not change the test results. |
| Using the defib module on the medtester 5000C, when I fire the defibrillator the joule values are displayed on the Impulse 4000, Impulse 3000, or Dale 900 screen but not on the medTester 5000C screen. What is wrong? |
| On Impulse 4000, Main Menu Page 2, there is a MEDT button that needs to be pushed to transfer data back to the medTester. There is also a MEDT selection on the menus of the Impulse 3000 and Dale 900. Make sure that you have pushed this button, that the baud rate is set to 2400, and that you are using the proper cable. The correct cable to use with the Impulse 4000 is Fluke Biomedical part number 2200252. The older part number was 3010-0467. The correct cable to use with the Impulse 3000 and Dale 900 is Fluke Biomedical part number 2199346. The older part number was 3010-0300. |
| I have no problem connecting the 5000C to the Impulse 4000 during defib tests using the 5000C defib module, but the pacer module gives me a message that says "No Impulse 4000 Detected". What am I doing wrong that the pacer module will not connect to the medTester 5000C? |
| Make sure that you are using COMM 2 on the medTester. The correct cable to use is Fluke Biomedical part number 2200252. The older part number was 3010-0467. The baud rates on both COMM 2 of the medTester and the Impulse 4000 need to be set at 2400 baud for the connection to be successful. When you use the defib module on the 5000C, the baud rate should automatically change from any baud rate to 2400 baud by itself. Therefore whatever the baud rate was set at for COMM 2 you will still get a connection. This is not true when using the pacer module on the medtester. You will need to physically change the baud rate to 2400 baud in the UTIL menu under BAUD. Make sure that the Impulse 4000 is still at Main Menu Page 1 when you start the autosequence in the medTester. |
| How do you change the type of tester that the medTester 5000C is trying to connect to when testing SPO2 monitors and infusion pumps? For example, I have an Infutest 2000, but when I run try to run a test using the Infutest, the medTester says that it is looking for an IDA-4P. |
1. Change the type of tester by pushing the right arrow key so that you are on Menu 2 on the medtester. Now push the CUSTOM button and then AUTOSEQ. Push the IVPUMP button and then push TYPE. Now you can select INFUTEST and then push STORE.
2. You must now initialize the medtester autosequences for the test. To do this push the CUSTOM button on Menu 2 and then push INIT. Now push IVPUMP and then push YES.
3. Check the baud rate on comm. 2 to make sure that it is on the correct baud rate for your tester. You are now ready to test using the correct tester. The same sequence can be used for changing the type of SPO2 tester that you use with your medtester. |
| When I am using the medTester 5000C ESU module with my 454A Electrosurgery Analyzer, sometimes the load displayed on the 5000C does not agree with the load that the 454A is displaying. I am using the correct cable and baud rate, so what is the problem? |
| The 454A was designed to protect its relays by not allowing the load to change while the meter is still registering power from the ESU. In other words, the 454A will not change loads until the displayed power reading has dropped to zero. If the power on the ESU was set to 300 W. it can take two or three seconds after you stop firing the ESU before the reading on the 454A will drop to 0 W. During this period of time, if you were to push the CONTINUE button on the 454A and your next step requires a load change on the 454A, the medTester will show the new load value, but the 454A will not switch from the load used on the previous test. As you may have guessed, this could cause your entire test to be failed by the medTester because the next test will be calculated by the 454A using the wrong load. For example, the most often-seen scenario is that you have just completed a monopolar-output test using the 300-? load and your next test is a bipolar output test at 100 ?. The medTester 5000C screen will tell you to set the ESU to fire on bipolar, but the load will still be set to the monopolar 300-? load on the 454A. Your bipolar output test will be calculated using the 300-? load caused a reduced output level and a failure in the medTester autosequence. |
| I have connected the cables between the 5000C and the medTester wedge and I cannot get anything to work through my wedge, but the connections directly to comm 2 on the medTester work fine. What am I doing wrong? How does the wedge work? |
| The medTester 5000C defaults to having the wedge shut off. You can turn the wedge on by pushing the UTIL button, then the right arrow button and then push WEDGE. When you then push ON and STORE your wedge will be turned on. The WPORTS menu in utilities will show you which port on the wedge is to be used by each device. You can change the port used by pushing the up or down arrow buttons and then pushing STORE. Note: Be sure to select the correct baud rate and use the correct cable for your device. | | |
| Electrosurgery Analyzers |
| RF303RS Electrosurgery Analyzer |
| Can a printer be used with my RF303RS? |
Yes, test results can be printed by a serial printer (Such as the DPU-414, P/N 2248899) which is connected to the RF303RS serial port.
- Put your RF303RS into "simplex" mode. To do this:
- With the RF303RSturned off, hold down the "+" and "-" softkeys (used to select load resistance)
- With the "+" and "-" soft keys depressed, turn on the RF303RS. Wait a moment, then release the soft keys
- Your RF303RS is now in simplex mode. Using a straight-through serial cable, connect your printer to the RF303RS serial port. The RF303RS serial port is configured as follows: Baud rate is fixed at 2400. No parity, 1 stop bit. Configure your printer to the same settings the RF303RS uses, as shown above.
- Turn on your printer. Put it "on line".
- Take a power measurement reading. While the reading is being taken, push the "mode" button.
- Data will be sent to your printer showing power in watts and current, as well as load resistance. Carriage Return and Line-feed signals will be sent to your printer.
- Every time you push the "mode" button, one line of data will be sent to your printer.
|
| Can data from the RF303RSbe exported to Microsoft Excel? |
| No. Microsoft Excel requires a comma-delimited file. Output from the RF303RS is formatted to be displayed properly by your printer, or on your computer monitor. RF303RS data is not comma-delimited. |
| The readings on my RF303RS are fluctuating. Is this normal? |
- Interpreting RF303RS Fluctuating Readings
- The model RF303RS incorporates an accurate digital measuring system that has three modes. The first measurement mode (default mode) utilizes a relatively short sampling time and does not filter or average ESU output. The two selectable measurement modes utilize longer sampling times that tend to average ESU output. When using the default measurement mode, you may observe some electrosurgery units (ESU) output readings that fluctuate plus or minus 10% or more depending on the unit under test. This is normal operation and is not indicative of a problem with the RF303RS.
- Determining if the ESU is the Problem
- When fluctuating readings are observed with the RF303RS, the technician should take note and determine if this is normal behavior for the ESU under test, or if this behavior is a sign of a problem.
- It May be Normal
- If a fluctuating output is normal for a particular ESU (as determined by the manufacturer, see accuracy specifications for ESU), the user can calculate the average of the high and low reading observed on the RF303RS (fluctuating readings may be discernable on the RF303 display) or the user can utilize the RF303RS's Signal Averaging Mode (SAM).
- Older ESUs may have unstable output due to old technology or design. This is typical and is acceptable based on the manufacturer's limits.
- Many newer-generation ESUs utilize instantaneous feedback loops, which constantly adjust the output and can cause an oscillating effect. This is also satisfactory and is considered normal for these devices.
- It May be Broken
- In some cases, fluctuating ESU power output is evidence of a problem. Fluctuating output on some ESUs may indicate the weakening of output from power transistors or other ESU ailments and is not acceptable.
- Signal Averaging Measurement (SAM)
- If an ESU normally has fluctuating output, then operating the RF303RS in one of its Signal Averaging Measurement (SAM) modes makes sense. SAM significantly reduces fluctuating readings on the display of the RF303RS making it easy for the technician to read an average value.
- Upon power up the RF303RS defaults to the instantaneous algorithm for power output measurement which shows fluctuating ESU output. The user can select SAM by depressing the "mode select" and "- ohm select" keys simultaneously; each time the user initiates this key sequence the RF303RS will increment to the next mode, displaying "F X" momentarily. Starting at the default mode ("F 0"), the first mode entered is the one second sampling mode, ("F 1"); initiating the key sequence again will select the two second sampling mode ("F 2"), initiating the key sequence again brings the unit back to the default instantaneous mode and so on.
- Bottom Line
- If you observe fluctuating power readings on the RF303RS, it is likely that the ESU being tested has a fluctuating output signal. To obtain an average power reading, select the RF303RS's signal averaging mode.
|
| When measuring power output of my Conmed ESU with my RF303RS, the bipolar power readings seem abnormally high. Can you explain why? |
The load resistors typically used in ESU analyzers are not "ideal". They possess some reactive components that are frequency dependent. The RF303RS derives applied power by measuring the voltage across the set load and calculating the power (V2/R). Most other ESU analyzers on the market derive the applied power by measuring the current flowing through a set load and calculating the power (I2*R). At fundamental frequencies below 500 kHz and regardless of the load setting, the two methods of measurement are comparable. Above 500 kHz, and at the extremes of the loads, the readings displayed by the two methods will differ on opposite sides of the expected value.
As an example, when testing the Conmed Excalibur Electrosurgical Unit in the monopolar output with the RF303RS load set to 50 ?, the set value on the Conmed will correlate with the displayed value on the RF303. When in the Bipolar mode, the RF303RS will display higher than expected values - up to 35% higher. The same test performed on some current measuring analyzers will produce lower than expected values. This is due to the difference in fundamental frequencies between the monopolar and bipolar modes. In this case, the Conmed operates at 500 kHz in monopolar mode and 1 MHz in bipolar mode. When comparing readings measured with a V2/R device to readings measured with an I2*R device, total measurement difference will likely be larger than 35%, due to different methods of deriving power.
This does not mean that the RF303RS is malfunctioning or in error. Rather, it reflects the different results the two measurement techniques will produce when the load deviates from the nominal value used in the power calculations. It should be noted that most ESU manufacturers use the current measuring technique to calibrate production units.
This characteristic does not affect Electrosurgical Units that operate with a fundamental frequency less than 500 kHz, such as ValleyLab electrosurgical units. | | |
| Gas-Flow/Pressure Analyzers |
| DPM 3 Pressure Meter |
| Is it normal for the displayed readings on my DPM 3 drift? |
A small amount of drift is acceptable. This type of drift is usually caused by the unit displaying a value that falls in between two digits. Example: You apply 50.5 PSI to the DPM 3, and the reading bounces between 50 psi.and 51 psi. This would be considered normal. If the unit drifts from zero and the displayed readings drift more than one or two counts, the offset my simply need to be zero'ed out, or there may be a problem with the way the DPM 3 is being used, or with the unit itself.
To zero the DPM-III, set the pressure Selector Switch to the pressure range to be measured, then make sure that the DPM-III is vented to atmosphere (room air), and turn the front panel Zero Knob so that the display reads zero pressure. (NOTE: the DPM-III may take a few seconds to settle to zero when first turned ON).
If the DPM 3 display is stable when the unit is vented, but drifts when it is connected to your pressure/vacuum source, then the problem may be caused by fluctuations in the tubing being used to connect your pressure source to the DPM 3. Avoid use of surgical tubing that can expand and contract with pressure fluctuations. Drift can also be caused by temperature fluctuations in a closed pneumatic system. Use of a three-way Luer-Lok stopcock at the DPM 3 inlet provides a convenient way of venting the DPM 3 and releasing any built-up pressure or vacuum.
Another possible cause is that the drift may originate in the device being measured. If possible, substitute a known-good pressure source. Doing so may help you determine where the problem is.
Excessive drift is occasionally a symptom of transducer contamination. Saline or mineral deposits, or a small piece of debris, can lodge itself inside the pressure transducer. If your DPM 3 drifts more than one or two counts when it is vented, you may have debris in the transducer. This becomes more likely if you're using hard tap water or saline during your measurements. You can try to dislodge the debris by irrigating the transducer assembly. This possibility becomes more likely with an older unit
- Fill a syringe (30 mL or so) with distilled water.
- Connect a piece of tubing to the syringe end. Use tubing small enough to be easily inserted into the DPM 3 inlet port.
- Insert tubing ½" or so into the DPM 3 pressure inlet; gently irrigate.
- Empty the syringe into the DPM 3. Hopefully, when the water exits the transducer assembly, the offending debris will be removed with it.
Please contact the Technical Assistance Center if the above suggestions fail to resolve the problem. |
| What types of temperature probes can be used with the DPM 3? |
| The DPM 3 is compatible with all YSI (Yellow Springs Instruments) 700-series temperature probes. | |
| VT PLUS HF Gas-Flow Analyzer |
| Why do I need the HFOV measurement capability that the VT PLUS HF offers? |
| If you have HFOV units in your ventilator fleet, their performance must be evaluated to ensure that it meets the manufacturer's specifications. VT PLUS HF helps you quickly make the evaluation by simply connecting to the patient Y of the ventilator breathing circuit, making one or a series of measurements, and comparing them to the HFOV control settings and manufacturer's specification tolerances. You can document all this by printing out the graphical and numeric display of data from VT PLUS HF and filing it with your other test data. |
| How can I use my VT PLUS like I use my RT-200? |
| By upgrading to VT PLUS HF. Any VT PLUS can be upgraded to allow full RT-200 capability. VT PLUS HF responds to the full RT-200 command set when you select the RT-200 emulation mode. It's as simple as entering the RT-200 function key number and then the BACK button on the VT PLUS HF RT-200 emulation menu. |
| How can I upgrade my VT Plus to VT PLUS HF |
| For VT Plus hardware revisions at 1.01.01, you can purchase the user-installable field upgrade. For hardware revisions below 1.01.01, you must send your unit in to the factory for a service upgrade | | |
| Incubator Analyzers |
| INCU Incubator Analyzer |
| Why doesn't the INCU include an integrated oxygen analyzer? |
| The INCU uses a hot-wire anemometer to measure air flow within the incubator. Since heat and enriched oxygen environments don't mix due to increased potential for flammability, evaluating the oxygen concentration should be done separately from the rest of the testing. Fluke Biomedical offers the max02 PLUS AE Oxygen Monitor, ideal for this type of analysis. |
| Why is it necessary to set the INCU test duration for 2 hours? |
| The laws of thermal dynamics come into play, as well as the need to evaluate the temperature-control circuit operations sufficiently. It takes time for the incubator chamber to warm up (equilibrate) to the temperature control value set on the incubator controls. Once the chamber is at a uniform temperature (as evaluated by the four separate, but simultaneous, thermistor measurements), the temperature control-circuit operation can best be evaluated. It would be expected that the temperature be controlled within the accuracy band provided in the incubator manufacturer's specifications. This should also agree with the IEC Standard requirements. Shorter test durations may not catch faulty temperature control circuitry. |
| How can I export data directly from INCU to Microsoft EXCEL? |
Although the INCU PC software wasn't originally designed to export data directly to EXCEL, this option does exist. The INCU Operator's Manual, Appendix C, contains the data file format for exporting INCU data to a database. Converting the saved INCU data file to a semicolon delimited file will help in importing the data into EXCEL. The process may take several steps.
INCU data format:
- All the data must be divided by 10 except for air-flow data
- Air flow data must be divided by 100.
- The character "M" preceding the value indicates an event marker. This character must be suppressed from the all data to obtain a numeric value.
|
| Can I test more than one incubator without returning to my PC… or uploading to my PC? |
| No. The INCU is designed to collect data from one incubator at a time. At the completion of each incubator test, the data can be uploaded to the PC using the INCU PC software, and can then be archived to storage media (hard drive, external drive, CD ROM, etc). |
| Can I run the same test setup (setup save) so I don't have to redefine the test each time? |
| No. | | |
| Infusion Device Analyzers |
| IDA 4 Plus Infusion Device Analyzer |
| Why does my infusion pump give me an occlusion alarm when testing at high-flow rates? |
The IDA 4 Plus computes flow rate by measuring the time it takes to fill a glass tube of known volume. The IDA 4 Plus senses when the measuring tube is filled, then drains the measuring tube, and the cycle begins again. While the measuring tube is being drained, the IDA 4 Plus occludes its inlet. This is the clicking sound the IDA 4 Plus makes.
The measuring tube used by the IDA 4 Plus is about 1 mL. When testing flow at high flow rates, (over 800 mL/hr, for example), the measuring tube fills very quickly, and must be drained more frequently. Your infusion pump may be sensing the brief (but more frequent) occlusion of the IDA 4 Plus inlet.
Suggestions:
- Increase the length of tubing connecting your infusion pump and the IDA 4 Plus inlet. This may act to "cushion" the effect of the occlusion of the IDA 4 Plus inlet.
- Check that your tubing has no kinks or sharp bends, and that the tubing interior diameter is at least 1/8".
- Check that the drain receptacle is placed lower than the IDA 4 Plus.
- If the above steps fail, try testing a different (same model) infusion pump. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to test at a lower flow rate.
|
| Why do I see an air-lock and/or air-bubble error when running the flow-rate test? |
It is very important that no air is present in the pump, bag, syringe or tubing.
Add a single drop (per 100 mL) of dishwashing detergent (Dawn works well) to your water. The detergent is not used as a cleanser, it is used to make the water "slippery". This helps prevent drops that cling to the IDA 4 Plus internal measuring tube.
Use only water. Use of saline or any liquid other than water is not recommended. Use of a liquid other than water can dirty the IDA 4 Plus internal glassware, resulting in poor priming, error messages, or loss of accuracy. |
| I'm having difficulty priming the IDA 4 Plus. What do you suggest? |
The syringe must be filled with water, not saline or any other liquid. Inspect the water in the syringe, purge out any air before priming.
Add a single drop (per 100 mL) of dishwashing detergent (Dawn works well) to your water. The detergent is not used as a cleanser, it is used to make the water "slippery", this helps prevent drops that cling to the IDA 4 Plus internal measuring tube.
When priming, infuse steadily and slowly. This won't slow you down, priming only takes a moment. |
| When I use my medTester 5000C with the Wedge, the medTester won't communicate with the IDA 4 Plus, but when I connect the IDA 4 Plus RS232 cable directly to the medTester everything works fine |
| In order to use the Wedge Adapter, a specific cable must be used to allow the medTester to communicate with the IDA 4 Plus. This cable can be ordered from Fluke Biomedical, part number 2201042. |
| Why can't I get the Hydrograph for Windows software to work on my computer? |
| To run Hydrograph for Windows on Windows 98/2000/XT, Hydrograph for Windows Version 2.05 is required. |
| Why doesn't my IDA 4 Plus seem to be communicating with the Hydrograph for Windows, version 2.05? |
| Your IDA 4 Plus requires Firmware Version 2.10 to work properly with Hydrograph for Windows, Version 2.05. The required firmware was included with Hydrograph for Windows, Version 2.05, along with installation instructions. |
| Your IDA 4 Plus requires Firmware Version 2.10 to work properly with Hydrograph for Windows, Version 2.05. The required firmware was included with Hydrograph for Windows, Version 2.05, along with installation instructions. |
Hydrograph for Windows attempts to connect with your IDA 4 Plus when it is launched. Your IDA 4 Plus should be turned on and connected to your computer before Hydrograph is started.
If Hydrograph failed to connect for this reason, you can force Hydrograph to connect with your IDA 4 Plus by clicking the "Control" option on the menu bar, then scrolling down to, and clicking on "Connect". |
| Why does my IDA 4 Plus fail to communicate with my computer? |
The RS232 ports (Serial Port) on your computer and IDA 4 Plus must be configured the same way. Hydrograph for Windows assumes the IDA 4 Plus RS232 port to be set to its default: 19,200 baud.
Verify that your IDA 4 Plus RS232 port is set to 19,200 baud. RS232 settings be viewed in the Utilities menu.
If using Hydrograph for Windows, verify that Hydrograph has configured your RS232 port to 19,200 baud. In Hydrograph, RS232 port settings can be viewed and changed, by clicking "Control" on the menu bar, then by selecting the "Com Port Settings" option.
If your computer has more than one RS232 port, follow the directions shown above to verify that you have selected the RS232 port used to connect your IDA 4 Plus to your PC.
Verify that the correct serial cable (P/N 2392046) is being used. | | |
| Simulators |
| CuffLink Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Simulator |
| Is the CuffLink auscultatory option for testing monitors using Karotoff sounds available? |
| No, the auscultatory option is no longer available. The CuffLink will now perform only oscillometric non invasive blood pressure simulations. |
| I have set the CuffLink to perform 120/80 simulation but my monitor reads only 116/78. Why is the monitor not showing 120/80? |
| Non invasive blood pressure monitor manufactures use what is called algorithms to display someone's blood pressure on the monitor screen. Manufacturers use different algorithms in their monitors. The CuffLink uses only one algorithm so the other manufacture's monitors are using an algorithm different from the one that they expect to see. Therefore the readings can sometimes be off by a few mmHg. |
| When I look at the blood pressure readings on my monitor what should I be looking for from the CuffLink simulations, accuracy or repeatability? |
| There are both static and dynamic simulations that can be sent from the CuffLink. Accuracy specifications refer to static blood pressure measurements such as the "Manometer" test. The static pressure tests are normally very accurate. Since the usual test function of the CuffLink is to provide a dynamic blood pressure simulation such as 120/80, and due to the probable difference between the algorithm used by the CuffLink and the algorithm expected by the monitor, perfect accuracy can not be expected. The simulation that you select on the CuffLink may vary from the reading displayed by the monitor. Repeatability is much more important. Every time that you use the CuffLink to simulate a given pressure with each type of monitor, the readings should be very close to being the same as the last test on that type of monitor. |
| What is the part number for the cuff mandrel (the blocks that you wrap the cuff around)? |
| The part number for the neonatal cuff mandrel is 2392328. The part numbers for the pieces of the adult mandrel are 2392381 for each center spacer block (3 are required) and 2392370 for each end block (2 are required). |
| What is the part number for the cuff adapter kit for the CuffLink? |
| The part number for the entire set of 8 cuff/hose adapters is 2245300. |
| Can I change just the systolic or just the diastolic blood pressure reading by using the SHIFT function? |
| No, when you use the SHIFT function in the CuffLink you are moving the entire pressure envelope waveform thereby changing both the systolic and diastolic pressures at the same time. You can not change just one of the pressures. |
| When using the remote commands for computer control or the module for the medtester why don't I get a response from the CuffLink showing the results of the simulation? For example, when I simulate 120/80 why don't I get the monitor blood pressure reading back from the CuffLink to the medtester? |
| Since the only physical connection to the monitor is the cuff tubing adapter, there is no way for the CuffLink to know what reading is being displayed by the monitor. Therefore, during both medtester and computer control you will need to manually insert the test result for most simulations. |
| Can the CuffLink simulate blood pressure using a wrist cuff |
| No, the CuffLink can simulate neonate and adult blood pressures but not wrist cuff pressures. |
| The screen on my CuffLink is blank. What is wrong? |
| Before sending your CuffLink in for service if the screen is blank try adjusting the Display View switch on the right side of the front of the CuffLink. Someone may have bumped the switch too far to the right or left. Turn the switch to the middle of the travel on the switch and the display should be ok. If not, you should call the service department at (888)993-5853 option 1for a RMA to send the CuffLink back for repair. | | | | |
