Multi-Medix Ultrasound Probe Test Tool
The Biomed’s “Dog Tag” US.
The evolution of field based probe testing – Using your Multi-Medix Probe Test Tool.
“A paper clip was designed to hold paper together – the Multi-Medix Probe Test Tool is designed to test ultrasound probes in the field, helping engineers identify gross defects”.
Shaped liked a US Army “dog tag”, the Multi-Medix ultrasound probe test tool allows field engineers to test probes effectively. The test tool is being distributed, free of charge, to everyone registering for the Multi-Medix USA ultrasound probe testing webinars. Read on to find out how to the tool enables engineers to achieve consistent probe test results AND find 100% of gross faults in the field.
From paperclip to “dog tag”
Biomeds & clinical engineers may be familiar with the “paper clip” test. In 1989, Goldstein demonstrated in a research paper that this household object can test a linear array on an ultrasound probe. However, it does have it’s shortcomings:
| USING A PAPER CLIP TO TEST A PROBE | USING THE MMX TEST TOOL TO TEST A PROBE |
| Inconsistency: Comes in different shapes & sizes, and can be coated in plastic therefore can produce differing results | Consistency: One shape & size so that results are consistent. |
| Inaccessible: Cannot always be found | Accessible: Can be attached to a keyring or lanyard |
| Not fit for purpose: paperclips can be “fiddly” and awkward to use when testing probes | Designed by biomeds: the test tool is ergonomically shaped and has been trailed in the field so that it is fit for purpose |
| Interpretation – see below | Instruction – see below |
The probe test tool was created by Darren Woolley, Operations Director at Multi-Medix & Dr Nick Dudley, Research Director at Multi-Medix. Their peer reviewed research paper is available to see here: A simple uniformity test for ultrasound phased arrays – Physica Medica 32-2016.
Interpretation vs Instruction
Though research showed that a paperclip could test a probe, it did not explain how to do this. Without one consistent process, field engineers may create varying methods of probe testing with differing results. The Multi-Medix test tool forms part of a suggested best practise for field testing probe, demonstrated in our webinar.
Multi-Medix has an ongoing programme of research and development into ultrasound physics and probe safety. At the heart of our company is the strong commitment to share this knowledge through our free webinars.
FREE training webinar
Using your Multi-Medix Test Tool, hosted by its inventor, Darren Woolley.
A short, 20 min instructional webinar that will demonstrate how to use your “dog tag” effectively, enabling you to find 100% of gross defects in the field.
Log on to watch live or “on demand” via our Online Knowledge Portal
Multi-Medix are specialists in ultrasound. We have a scientific background and have worked as biomeds ourselves in hospitals and clinics around the world. We understand what a biomed needs and can help you get your ultrasound system working again.
Try our hassle free probe repair and see our lab to find out why even the OEMs use us.