Unisyn Medical Technologies, Inc. The Nickle
Unisyn Medical Technologies, Inc. · Model The Nickle
Serious Tool, Compact Design. The Nickel senses acoustic pulses emitted by elements of an ultrasonic array probe and generates a return acoustic signal simulating a target. The sensor is an integral PVDF transducer designed for direct contact to the lens of the probe. The PVDF transducer assembly has a "V" or "Barn Roof" plastic lens with a peak dimension small enough to allow only acoustic energy from a single element assuming the peak of the roof is parallel to the element. The PVDF material is broadband, thus signals from any diagnostic imaging probe can be sensed. The user knows that a signal has been received when the LED on The Nickel goes from red to green The received signal is amplified and then compared to a fixed reference level such that signals larger than the reference level indicate that an acoustic pulse has been received. Crossing this signal threshold level results in a digital signal that is sent to a CPLD (complex programmable logic device), which starts an oscillator (˜10 MHz) synchronous with the received pulse and contains counters used to generate three return targets back to the system. The first target signal is 10 MHz and is transmitted continuously for 2 cm of depth from 3 to 5 cm. The second target is 5 MHz and is transmitted from 5 to 7 cm and the third target frequency is 2.5 MHz and is transmitted from the 7 to 9 cm. These returning signals are then displayed in real-time on the system monitor at various depths within the image format.
Key tips
- ·When no category-specific guidance fits, default to the manufacturer's own service manual and the general troubleshooting method in the Engineer's Guide.
- ·Run an incoming and annual electrical safety test regardless of how niche the device is.
Typical Failure Modes
Compiled for this model from its own documentation and established engineering knowledge for this equipment class - not from a verified service record. Confirm against the manufacturer's service manual.
Out of calibration / accuracy suspect
HighSymptoms: Readings disagree with a reference standard, verification check outside tolerance.
Root cause: Normal drift - the instrument needs its scheduled factory / accredited calibration (at least every 12 months).
Will not power on / battery fault
MediumSymptoms: Dead unit, short battery life, will not charge.
Root cause: Depleted or aged battery, or a power / charger fault.
Test lead / probe / adapter fault
MediumSymptoms: Open or intermittent readings, connection errors, a specific function fails.
Root cause: Worn or broken test leads, mains adapters, patient-lead adapters, or a sensor cable.
A measurement / simulation function fails
MediumSymptoms: One parameter (leakage, insulation, ECG / SpO2 / IBP simulation, defib / pacer energy, ventilator flow / pressure, light / dose) errors or is out of range while others work.
Root cause: An internal source / measurement circuit fault on that channel.
PC / software communication fault
LowSymptoms: The automation / logging software will not connect.
Root cause: USB cable / port or driver.
Serviceable Parts & Consumables
Serviceable items for this model, compiled from its documentation and engineering knowledge for this equipment class. Service class and relative cost are estimates, not manufacturer figures; no part numbers are given. Confirm intervals and pricing against the manufacturer.
Test-lead / adapter set
Class Periodic replacementRel. cost $$R&R Easy
Battery
Class Periodic replacementRel. cost $$R&R Easy
Calibration (factory / accredited)
At least every 12 months per the manufacturer.
Class Frequent wear itemRel. cost $$R&R Easy
Communication cable
Class Periodic replacementRel. cost $R&R Easy
| Part | Service class | Relative cost | R&R difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test-lead / adapter set | Periodic replacement | $$ | Easy |
| Battery | Periodic replacement | $$ | Easy |
| Calibration (factory / accredited) At least every 12 months per the manufacturer. | Frequent wear item | $$ | Easy |
| Communication cable | Periodic replacement | $ | Easy |
Relative cost: $ lowest · $$$$ highest service-part cost for this equipment class. Not a price.
PM Checklist
Preventive-maintenance tasks typical of this equipment class. Perform to the manufacturer's procedure and your facility's policy - this is general reference, not a schedule for this specific unit.
- ·Follow the manufacturer's PM schedule
- ·Perform incoming and annual electrical safety testing per facility biomedical program
Troubleshooting Approach
A starting sequence for this model, compiled from its documentation and engineering knowledge for this equipment class. Follow the manufacturer's service documentation for the actual procedure.
Symptom: Accuracy suspect / verification fails
- Confirm the calibration is within date.
- Verify against a known reference (a decade box, a reference meter, a second analyzer).
- Check the test leads / adapters for damage and reseat them.
- If a single function is out, note it for the calibration lab.
- Send the unit for its scheduled calibration if it is due or fails verification.
Symptom: A function fails or will not power on
- Fit fresh batteries / confirm the charger.
- Swap in a known-good lead / adapter set.
- Test the failing function into a known load / source.
- Update the firmware if available.
- Return the unit for a persistent internal fault.
Technical Specs
- Analyzer/Simulator Type
- Ultrasound
Typical Location
Where this class of equipment is typically deployed - general reference, not this unit's own placement record.
- Varies by device - check the unit's own manual for facility placement guidance
Documents & Manuals
No documents available for this device yet.
Related calculators
From BioLab, for work done with this kind of equipment.
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