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Test equipment refers to any equipment that a biomedical engineer or a technician uses to perform calibration of medical devices. The electrical safety analyzer is one of the most important devices used to inspect medical equipment and perform regular maintenance to meet the safety standards required to protect the patients and the end-user in the medical field and avoid dangers resulting from electrical faults [1]. It is used to perform various electrical safety tests, including ground continuity test, insulation test, high voltage test, and line leakage test, to check that the device under test complies with electrical safety requirements [2].
Figure 1. FLUKE’s Electrical Safety Analyzers.
Figure 2. NETECH’s Electrical Safety Analyzer.
Figure 3. General connections to an electrical safety analyzer.
To start using the electrical safety analyzer, follow the steps below:
Figure 4. UV Light Test Meter.
A UV (Ultra Violet) light test meter, sometimes referred to as a UV radiometer or UV light meter, is a specialized device that measures the intensity and amount of UV radiation. It is a crucial device to obtain accurate intensity control and deliver the appropriate dosage for treatment or disinfection. Different UV wavelengths are used in different medical applications, for instance sterilizing, and UV therapy. The main purpose of the UV test meter is to ensure and verify that the specific UV power is delivered which includes the intensity and wavelength. Since the healthcare provider uses UV light widely, the UV meter provides helpful information about the consistency of UV light during the desired time. UV light meter is also used to ensure that there is no extra exposure outside the desired area [4], [5].
The UV meter is especially designed to detect the UV light. The UV sensor is the core component that is responsible for detecting the incidents UV light. The sensor is made of a material that is highly sensitive to UV radiation such as silicon carbide (SiC) or gallium nitride (GaN). [6] When the incident light hits the sensor, the electric current is generated due to the photoelectric effect. In more detail, the energy of the UV light photons is transferred to the electrons in the sensor’s material. As a result, the flow of electrons occurs, and the electric current, which is proportional to the UV light intensity, is generated. After that, the signal processing amplifies, filters, and converts the electric current into readable analog or digital data. The data is mostly presented in microwatts per square centimeter (µW/cm²) or milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²) [4]-[6].
Figure 5. CEM Particle Counter.
Particle counters are capable of detecting and counting particles in the air, liquids, or surfaces. A particle counter is a crucial tool used in clean-room operations to monitor, classify, and diagnose contamination sources. Thus, it detects and counts physical particles in all clean rooms to maintain a particular level of cleanliness [7].
Aerosol particle counters come in two varieties: optical and condensation. Optical particle counters can identify particles within fluids and in the air. An intense light source is used to count and measure particles when the light source is obscured. This particular monitoring equipment measures airborne particles utilizing the technique of light scattering. Moreover, an optical particle can use direct imaging, light scattering, and light-blocking techniques to identify and quantify particles [7].
A condensation particle counter controls the saturation levels as they change with temperature by using isopropyl alcohol or butanol to expand the entered particles up to 200%, making detection easier. Technicians can use this monitoring gadget to find particles as small as 2 nm, which is insufficient for an optical particle counter to detect. These devices, which are hand-held and have a reduced flow rate for spot-checking and certifying smaller amounts of air, are perfect to use inside clean rooms. For constant monitoring of higher air volumes in clean rooms, a large portable condensation particle counter can be used [7].
Figure 6. FLUKE’s Vibration Reader Device.
A vibration reader, commonly referred to as a vibration analyzer, is a device used to assess and interpret vibrations within mechanical systems. Its primary function is to monitor these systems for proper operation and to detect issues such as misalignment or bearing defects [8].
The key purpose of a vibration reader is to identify early indicators of mechanical issues, thus enabling predictive maintenance, minimizing downtime, and reducing repair expenses [9].
Vibration readers generally utilize piezoelectric accelerometers, which convert mechanical vibrations into electrical signals. These signals are subsequently processed, analyzed, and displayed. Many devices use Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis to convert these signals into frequency-domain data, assisting in the detection of specific vibration-related problems [9], [10].
Figure 8. FLUKE’s Digital Pressure Meter.
A digital pressure meter (DPM) is designed to test a variety of medical equipment such as ophthalmology devices, lasers, dialysis machines, and surgical suction tools. It measures the medical equipment’s positive and negative pressures in liquid or gaseous form. [11]
Digital pressure meter (DPM) is mainly used for the following:
The pressure within a system or area is converted to an electronic signal through efficient measuring cells with electronic linearization of the characteristic curve. Eventually, this signal is sent to a digital display [13], [14].
Figure 9. FLUKE’s Different types of Patient Monitor Simulator.
Patient simulators, often referred to as physiological simulators or vital sign rhythm generators, are one of the most common and important instruments used by biomedical technicians. Patient simulators are used to precisely test and confirm the functionality of patient monitoring devices, including ECG machines, cardiac monitors, and vital signs monitors. Patient simulator devices simulate various physiological characteristics like blood pressure, respiration, temperature, arrhythmia waveforms, and ECG. These physiological characteristics are measured by the device being tested. Hence, the accuracy of the patient monitor is determined and fixed if necessary. Furthermore, these simulators are able to evaluate the speed at which the patient monitor reacts to modifications in the patient’s state [15], [16].
The patient monitor device being tested is connected to the multi-parameter simulator using an extension cable or ECG wires. Once the required parameter has been selected, the patient monitor simulator replicates or simulates the desired function by delivering electrical impulses. The numbers in the patient monitor are compared with the measurements taken by the simulator and perform calibration if needed [15].
Figure 10. A Contactless Tachometer.
A tachometer, also known as a revolution counter or RPM gauge. It is a device utilized to measure the rotational speed of a moving object, such as a disc or shaft, quantifying revolutions per minute (RPM). It is essential for performing tests, measurements, and maintenance of laboratory equipment [17], [18].
Although there are various types of tachometers in the market, they function similarly. The electric tachometer is the most used typical type which operates according to the principle of relative motion between the magnetic field and the shaft of the connected device. The tachometer’s motor functions as a generator, producing voltage according to the shaft’s velocity. It measures the number of rotations the crankshaft completes per minute. Knowing the engine’s RPM and operating range is crucial to prevent unnecessary damage. It can function on either alternating or direct current [18].
Figure 11. FLUKE’s Gas Flow Analyzer.
A gas flow analyzer is a critical instrument used in biomedical applications to measure the gas flow rate of medical devices like ventilators, and this ensures precise delivery of gases, optimizing treatment and diagnosis by maintaining appropriate gas levels for patient needs across various medical equipment, including aspirators, suction devices, anesthesia machines, particular patient monitor parameters, and insufflators [19], [20].
There are multiple gas flow analyzers in the market, however, measuring the pressure and the gas flow is an essential function in all of these devices, i.e., as these devices contain a pressure meter and a flow sensor/ meter within their components. Furthermore, although each type has its working principle, e.g., zirconia oxygen analysis, hydrogen purity analysis, and infrared gas analysis, they all operate by utilizing the gas’s optical properties. The infrared gas analyzer, for instance, detects a gas amount by measuring the absorption levels in an air sample. It determines the amount of infrared light the sample absorbs. If a specific gas is abundant, more light will be absorbed at a particular frequency [20], [21].
Figure 12. Electrosurgery Analyzer
Electrosurgical units (ESUs) use high-frequency electrical currents to cut tissue and control bleeding by causing blood to coagulate. In order to guarantee dependable operation and the best possible surgical results, the Electrosurgery Analyzer is essential to evaluate the ESU’s efficacy and safety. The analyzer measures critical parameters such as power output, current, voltage, and frequency to ensure that the ESU follows the manufacturer’s guidelines which confirms optimal results [22].
Figure 13. FLUKE’s Defibrillator Analyzer.
Defibrillator analyzers are vital medical devices that are used to restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. A defibrillator analyzer is a specialized piece of equipment made to test and ensure that defibrillators are operating properly.[24] The defibrillator performance parameters that need to be tested include at least four: automatic external defibrillation, synchronized-mode operation, discharge energy, and ECG monitoring.[25] The analyzer’s purpose, regardless of the defibrillator’s type, automatic, semi-automatic, pulsed biphasic, and monophasic outputs, is to inspect the defibrillator’s capabilities and confirm it meets manufacturer requirements. The device’s output energy is measured using analyzers [26].
Figure 14. Incubator radiant warmer analyzer.
The incubator radiant warmer analyzer is used as a portable device designed to confirm the appropriate operation and environment of infant incubators. This unit records parameters important to the care of infants over time, such as temperature, sound level, airflow, and relative humidity to ensure the baby’s safety, which requires regular preventive maintenance tests [28], [29].
The incubator radiant warmer analyzer is a crucial tool, capable of measuring various parameters such as humidity, airflow, sound, and temperature. It consists of different sensors, each responsible for measuring one of the parameters. After collecting the data from the sensors, the device analyzes and correlates them to evaluate the performance of the incubator and radiant warmer. The analyzer contains an LCD screen for real-time data and test results [30].
Figure 15. Medical ScopeMeter “Portable Oscilloscope”.
The ScopeMeter is a portable, high-performance oscilloscope designed for industrial and field-based troubleshooting. It offers comprehensive capabilities for capturing, displaying, and analysing electrical waveforms, making it an essential tool for diagnosing issues in various systems [31].
Figure 16. Phototherapy Radiometer.
Phototherapy radiometers measure the light intensity in the blue spectrum to ensure accurate and effective neonatal phototherapy treatment. These devices help adjust the light intensity for optimal treatment results.
Hand-held radiometers are essential tools for checking the output of neonatal phototherapy devices. They can be easily integrated into routine maintenance and output monitoring programs. Evaluating the wavelength and angular response of different radiometers and comparing these with phototherapy light source spectrum analysis ensures accurate and effective monitoring [34].
The Phototherapy Radiometer is designed to precisely detect light radiation in the blue region of the spectrum, ranging from 429 to 473 nanometers. This specific spectrum is used to treat hyperbilirubinemia in newborn children [35].
Phototherapy radiometers function by detecting and precisely measuring the intensity of blue light radiation within the wavelength range of 425nm to 475nm. These devices utilize sensors to convert detected light into electrical signals, which are processed to provide accurate measurements of light intensity, typically expressed in units like μW/cm². Calibration ensures these measurements are reliable, allowing healthcare providers to adjust phototherapy devices to deliver optimal treatment outcomes [36].
[1] Medical Electrical Safety Analyzer | Fluke Biomedical. (n.d.). Fluke Biomedical. https://www.flukebiomedical.com/products/biomedical-test-equipment/electrical-safety-analyzers
[2] Biomedical Test Equipment – Netech Corporation. (n.d.).
https://www.netechbiomedical.com/electrical-safety-analyzers
[3] Davies, H. (n.d.). Electrical safety tests. EBME. https://www.ebme.co.uk/articles/electrical-safety/electrical-safety-tests
[4] What is a UV sensor? (no date) Davis Instruments. Available at: https://www.davisinstruments.com/pages/what-is-a-uv-sensor.
[5] How to Select the Best UV Light Meter For Your Application？. (2020, April 2). Transmission Meter | UV Light Meter | Coating Thickness Gauge – Linshang. https://www.linshangtech.com/tech/how-to-select-the-best-uv-light-meter-for-your-application-tech1166.html
[6] understanding What is UV Sensor and how UV Sensor work? (n.d.). haisenuvc.com. https://www.haisenuvc.com/what-is-uv-sensor/
[7] Frank, “What is a particle counter and how does it work?: Laboratory supplies,” Lab Supply Network, https://www.laboratory-supply.net/blog/what-is-a-particle-counter-and-how-does-it-work/
[8] SKF. “Vibration Meters.” Skf.com, 2024, www.skf.com/au/products/condition-monitoring-systems/portable-systems..
[9] National Instruments. Piezoelectric Accelerometer. www.researchgate.net/figure/a-National-Instruments-cDAQ-9191-wireless-data-acquisition-unit-and-NI-9234-sound-and_fig2_334378888.
[10] Brüel & Kjær. “FFT Analyzer App | BZ-7230 | Brüel & Kjær.” Bksv.com, Brüel & Kjær | B&K | Sound and Vibration, 2024, www.bksv.com/en/instruments/handheld/sound-level-meter-apps/bz-7230-fft-analysis.
[11]“DPM2Plus Universal Pressure Meter Tester | Fluke Biomedical,” www.flukebiomedical.com. https://www.flukebiomedical.com/products/biomedical-test-equipment/digital-pressure-meters/dpm2plus-universal-pressure-meter
[12]Manual, “DPM2 Plus Digital Pressure Meter,” 2006. Available: https://www.flukebiomedical.com/sites/default/files/dpm2plusomeng0000.pdf
[13]“Digital Pressure Meter,” labcompare. https://www.labcompare.com/Materials-Research-and-Metallurgical-Equipment/26848-Digital-Pressure-Meter/
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[19] “Category: Flow measurement,” BiomedicalBlog, https://biomedical.blog/category/flow-measurement/ (accessed Jun. 3, 2024).
[20] Gas-flow analyzers | biomedical instrumentation & technology, https://meridian.allenpress.com/bit/article/39/1/43/198540/Gas-Flow-Analyzers (accessed Jun. 3, 2024).
[21] Australian Dynamic Technologies, “How do gas analysers work?,” Australian Dynamic Technologies, https://www.austdynatech.com.au/how-do-gas-analysers-work/ (accessed Jun. 3, 2024).
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[34]“PHOTOTHERAPY RADIOMETER – RAY (Phototherapy Irradiance meter) – http://www.niceneotech.com/blog/,” May 06, 2019. https://www.niceneotech.com/blog/2019/05/06/ray-nice-4020-phototherapy-radiometer/ (accessed Jun. 06, 2024).
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