Connectors for Medical Device PCBs
Written By: Ajay Saini
Abstract:
The term “medical device” covers a broad spectrum of electrical equipment, ranging from small implantable stimulators to room sized MRI machines. This equipment is typically broken down into three classes based on the safety implications of possible failure modes. Class I devices present minimal potential for harm to the user and are often simpler in design. 47% of medical devices fall into this class, and 95% of these are exempt from any special regulatory oversight. Once appreciable safety concerns come into play, the device is elevated to Class II status. Class III devices require the utmost scrutiny and are subject to intense regulatory oversight, putting them into a category of their own when it comes to the suitability of electronic components.
While KYOCERA AVX manufactures other products for use in Class III devices, Class I and II devices, can be designed using traditional electronic supply chain components, as long as a focus is maintained on reliability and environmental compatibility. KYOCERA AVX produces a wide variety of contacts and connectors that are well-suited to Class I and II medical applications, particularly at the PCB level for connecting wires to boards, boards to boards, and battery packs to boards.
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The term “medical device” covers a broad spectrum of electrical equipment, ranging from small implantable stimulators to room sized MRI machines. This equipment is typically broken down into three classes based on the safety implications of possible failure modes. Class I devices present minimal potential for harm to the user and are often simpler in design. 47% of medical devices fall into this class, and 95% of these are exempt from any special regulatory oversight. Once appreciable safety concerns come into play, the device is elevated to Class II status. Class III devices require the utmost scrutiny and are subject to intense regulatory oversight, putting them into a category of their own when it comes to the suitability of electronic components.
While KYOCERA AVX manufactures other products for use in Class III devices, Class I and II devices, can be designed using traditional electronic supply chain components, as long as a focus is maintained on reliability and environmental compatibility. KYOCERA AVX produces a wide variety of contacts and connectors that are well-suited to Class I and II medical applications, particularly at the PCB level for connecting wires to boards, boards to boards, and battery packs to boards.
