Test equipment is vital for the HTM community. Biomeds rely on these high-tech devices to perform many tasks to help them maintain medical devices. Rarely does a day go by where they don’t have to test something as part of a repair process. What are the latest advances in test equipment from the leading manufacturers? Is it possible to keep up with the latest test equipment technology without buying brand new?
TechNation asked a group of experts in the field of test equipment these questions and more. These experts agreed to share their insights with readers.
The members of the expert panel are Greg Alkire, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Pronk Technologies Inc.; Jack Barrett, National Business Development Manager, Rigel Medical; Michael T. Bayliss, Global Sales Manager, Datrend Systems Inc.; Ken O’Day, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, BC Group International Inc.; Patrick Pyers, Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Business Development, Radcal Corp.; and Jerry Zion, Global Training Manager, Fluke Biomedical. The answers provided by these individuals are the opinions of the submitters and not necessarily the opinions of the company that employs them.
Q: What are the latest advances or significant changes in test equipment in the past year?
Alkire: The Healthcare Technology Management (HTM) test equipment market continued to migrate toward more portable devices with more flexibility in the past year. There is a concerted effort to reduce the footprint of existing technologies in order to adapt to the more mobile biomed of today. Manufacturers that are able to leap ahead of legacy technologies with advanced features that include a more intuitive user interface, improved accuracy and speed are seeing success in the market today. I see this as a tremendous benefit to assist the biomeds in saving time and cost for maintaining the medical devices.
Barrett: Last year, I commented on the growing importance on test automation and data traceability. This continues to grow in importance.
Bayliss: The use of wireless connectivity is probably the biggest change recently. Almost everyone uses a smartphone or tablet and would like to see the same capabilities with their test equipment. For example, using the tablet as both the user interface and the wireless communication link.
O’Day: In order for the test equipment to keep up with new medical devices, they need to be faster, more comprehensive, software driven and upgradeable. Smaller is another trend, but being able to hold something in your hand while you test doesn’t always give you the best results. Sometimes functionality is more important than size.
Pyers: Test equipment is a very broad arena of products used today. It is comprised of many different testing instruments from electrical safety analyzers to sophisticated diagnostic X-ray test meters. The use of new displays utilizing the latest in touchscreen technology is more prevalent today than in the past. With the emphasis on time savings, touchscreens speed up the testing setup procedures and analyzing the results obtained from the measurement. Laptops, tablets and smartphone technology of today provide the platforms of some of the new technology seen this past year and will play an even more important role in test equipment to come in the near future.
Zion: The most notable advances in the past year include wireless connectivity functionality, software developments to interface with a broader range of technology (think tablets, notebooks, etc.) and innovative ways to turn data into real-time insights. All of which have improved the way measurements (and ultimately decisions) are made.
Q: How will those changes impact the test equipment market in the future?
Alkire: Smaller and more flexible solutions will allow users to be more efficient and flexible in their work environment. For example, rather than removing a medical device from a patient room on the fourth floor and dragging it down to their shop, they can now do all the testing needed right in the patient areas without pushing a cart full of equipment through the hospital. One impact of more portable test equipment on the market, which may not be a coincidence, is an increase in the number of biomed shops taking on the maintenance work of smaller remote facilities. Historically, engineers would have to push an equipment cart across the parking lots and load/unload larger equipment in and out of a vehicle. Newer, smaller devices fitting into a small carrying case that can be thrown over a shoulder or even into a shirt pocket significantly increase the viability and efficiency of managing those remote clinics.
Barrett: Better and easier accessibility to test data along with porting data into CMMS via direct links or as attachments.
Bayliss: By using a wireless communication system, a user will not have to carry a tester, laptop, and multiple service manuals in order to perform tests. Tests can be initiated on the tablet/smartphone by a user, or through a CMMS system, performed with a high degree of automation, with records wirelessly communicated and stored.
O’Day: In order to compete, we will need to continue to use the latest technology to design products with the future in mind. Continued support and “future proofing” our products is our way of being a good corporate citizen in this ever-changing field. We want the end user to be a long-time partner and not just someone to purchase the latest item on the market.
Pyers: With the new technology incorporated in the instruments of today, faster processors with more capabilities of storing and analyzing more information will be seen in future test tools. The consolidation of several test instruments into a single device could be seen to provide the user with a time-saving and productive testing tool.
Zion: The future is smaller, more portable and more efficient. Expect technology advances to improve productivity and mitigate risk. Form follows function, and that will be what drives innovation in test equipment.
Q: What technologies and test equipment are worthy of the initial investment? How can a facility with a limited budget meet the test equipment needs of today?
Alkire: Test devices that can save time and space (portability) are a wise investment, especially if they are affordable enough for each technician to have their own rather than sharing. Also, take into consideration the cost of ownership on calibrations and purchase units with warranties covering more than just the first or second year. Work with test equipment vendors that offer flexibility in buying options like offering individual testers or pieces of a more complete test system. This lowers initial investment and provides the flexibility to still take advantage of cost savings if a complete system is purchased over time.
Barrett: Ever tightening budgets, at a time when aging test equipment is reaching end-of-life, is a challenge for every healthcare facility. I think the answer as to which equipment is worthy of investment begins with understanding the limitations of the current equipment versus what manufacturers specify is needed for PMs. If a PM cannot be completed per specification, it is time to upgrade.
Bayliss: I would suggest that test equipment with a high use of automation technology will result in the biggest impact. Facilities are looking for large savings in time, costs and manpower. Automation helps achieve these goals.
O’Day: Choosing equipment that is cost effective, but feature rich is a good start. Having the ability to choose from a family of products, allows the facility to get into the basic testing. Having an upgrade path or “Future Proofing” to allow the same instrument to perform on a higher level is the best way to protect your investment.
Pyers: For a department that enters into a new modality such as X-ray machine testing and analysis, the most advanced test equipment is required to accurately measure on the more complex X-ray machines manufactured today. This holds true for all areas utilizing diagnostic test equipment. A facility needing these instruments should investigate all test instruments available today and be sure that they are purchasing the right tool for the right job. Work with your vendor. Most vendors have programs to help you fit your budget to the right tool to meet your requirements. Test equipment where options can be added on as money becomes available would be the most desirable.
Zion: Consider how you can use the least amount of equipment possible. Look at comprehensive analyzers to test all parameters you need in a single tool. It’s also important to consider the expected life of the test equipment. Durable, reliable test equipment is always worth the investment.
Q: What else do you think TechNation readers need to know about purchasing and maintaining test equipment?
Alkire: An important aspect that should always be considered is selecting test equipment that exceeds the accuracy specification of the medical devices being tested. Selecting test equipment that has an accuracy ratio of 4:1 where the test device should be four times more accurate then the device being tested will ensure the medical device being tested is indeed passing its specifications.
Barrett: Time savings associated with test automation increases the biomed’s bandwidth. Minimizing test equipment downtime is important as well. Rigel Medical has several leading calibration houses now authorized to accomplish on-site calibration.
Bayliss: The big consideration within facilities is time and manpower. Sometimes less expensive equipment involves less automation and ultimately costs more (to the facility) over the life of the test equipment. Other important purchasing factors to consider are length of warranty, access to service and calibration, and certainly ease-of-use.
O’Day: Purchasing from a company who listens to the users and incorporates those conversations in the product is invaluable. Our products are designed, manufactured, maintained and redesigned in the U.S. Our engineering staff works with OEMs to incorporate test procedures and specifications to match what they require. If new specifications are introduced, our test equipment will be there for you.
Pyers: When purchasing new test equipment, consider the features of each system and compare them against your needs. Do not base your decision solely on price, but think how the new tool will benefit you the most. Consider all the options for purchasing your new test instrument to meet your budget constraints. Purchasing equipment that is advanced today will allow for updating in the future to insure many more years of use.
Zion: It comes down to portability, reliability, accuracy, ease-of-use and being there for the customer before and after the sale. Innovation defines the future, but only if it’s delivered in the right context.
Q: What are the most important things to look for in a reputable test equipment provider?
Alkire: I would say that after considering the suitability of the technologies available from the test equipment provider, the next most important thing to look for would be the standard warranty that is included with their products. Purchasing devices that carry three or more years of warranty should be considered as a minimum standard as it is a great indicator of the reliability and durability of the product, as well as guarantees lower cost of ownership.
Barrett: Do they provide full, self-contained functionality to meet PM and data requirements? Is there overhead in product specification to help address future product development from the OEM? Do service and support levels meet the biomed department’s expectations?
Bayliss: Look for a provider who has the technical knowledge of the test equipment and how it is used. The provider should be responsive to your needs in a timely manner, flexible and willing to work with you if a problem arises.
O’Day: Partnering with a test equipment company who has your best interest as their best interest is probably the best advice. Find a company who will be there for the long haul and support your product for years to come and not drop the previous product because there is something new.
Pyers: The most important factors to look for in a reputable vendor are quality and longevity. The stability of a company does say a lot about the company. Being in business for many years shows commitment to the industry and most importantly the ability to support and service their products.
Zion: The most reputable test equipment providers in the industry are companies that have gained their leadership positions by engineering the most reliable quality-assurance solutions for regulatory compliance. Look for a company with a reputation for exceeding customer’s expectations in quality, durability and accuracy.
Q: Is it possible to keep up with the latest test equipment technology without buying brand new?
Alkire: It can be. It depends on the device in question. The most common approach would be to contact the test equipment company and determine if there is an upgrade path for the equipment in question. Our philosophy is that the first customer that bought the very first product we ever produced is as important, if not more, than a customer considering purchasing our devices for the first time. Therefore, we offer upgrade paths for all users even if their device is 10 years old.
Barrett: I would look at this a little differently. If the latest technology does not provide measured value for the biomed department, then it isn’t needed. Scarce budget dollars can then be directed to technology that fills a void in test capabilities.
Bayliss: Attempting to save a few dollars by purchasing used equipment may, at first, seem like a good plan. But when compared to the huge savings in time and manpower afforded by maximizing automation in a test device, those savings are negated, particularly when factored over the lifetime of the test equipment.
O’Day: Whenever possible, BC Group attempts to “Future Proof” your purchases. BC Group introduced the ESU-2400 in 2008. There have been many changes over the last six years, but because we have the ability to flash updates at no charge, the shop that purchased the first ESU-2400 has a version identical to the production line version shipping today. The new ESU-2400H is our latest model. However, the first ESU-2400 can be upgraded to all the features of the ESU-2400H for a small upgrade price. No need to buy new.
Pyers: Although there are many older instruments out there that can do “most” of the job you need to do, newer technology far exceeds the capacity and ability of the older tools. You might get the job done, but the accuracy and time savings are not there. The manufacturers of the device you need to test are pushing the limits of test equipment each day as new machines are released. In order to get the job done right, you need the latest tools. Buy the most current tool while looking toward the future for new developments.
Zion: Yes. Demo equipment purchases and taking advantage of volume-purchase agreements and promotions is the best way to get the latest test equipment technology for less than list price.
Q: How can purchasers ensure they are making a wise investment in test equipment?
Alkire: I think one of the best resources of information in our market is both the TechNation ListServe and the ECRI Institute’s Biomed Talk, where user facilities from all over the country (and elsewhere) are able to post questions and get answers directly from their peers regarding not only the user interface, features, accuracy and technology available in a specific product but they can also get a real sense of the manufacturer’s quality and support of the products. Both are free as far as I know. ECRI’s site is https://www.ecri.org/biomedtalk/Pages/default.aspx and TechNation’s can be found at https://1technation.com/listserv/.
Barrett: Explore the options based on your requirements. Evaluate best-in-class solutions. Select the best total cost solution that aligns with the strategic direction of the department. Look at price versus performance juxtapositioned against requirement.
Bayliss: Investment decisions should involve reducing time costs and manpower through the use of automation as much as possible. Users should also consider maximizing their options by choosing scalable equipment to account for future capabilities and by ensuring equipment will communicate with devices from different manufacturers.
O’Day: When evaluating your test equipment needs, determine what you really need and don’t purchase features you do not need. Purchasing an item that will do 12 things when you only need to do three is not always the best bargain. Sometimes packaging items together make it look like a good idea, but if you don’t really need the features you might be wasting your money.
Pyers: Purchasers should do their homework and compare all test equipment that they are searching for. Brand name equipment usually represents quality and long life. Most facilities need to realize that it is an investment in purchasing a test tool and not just “another tool” that the department is asking for. An investment should not always be based upon the lowest price, but on the tool that will provide an increase in productivity. In the X-ray testing meter side, if the tool can prevent the X-ray machine from going down for a day or two, it more than pays for itself. Buy wisely.
Zion: Wise investments are made beyond test equipment. Wise investments are made in a company. Whether it’s additional product training, or technical support you need, invest in a company that is committed to your success before and after the sale.