Background and Identification
The Novametrix Models 515B/515C are pulse oximeters manufactured by Novametrix Medical Systems. Pulse oximeters are non-invasive devices used to monitor a patient’s oxygen saturation. Novametrix was a producer of airway pressure monitors, transcutaneous blood gas monitors, pulse oximeters, capnographs, respiratory mechanics monitors, and volumetric carbon dioxide monitors. Novametrix is now owned by Philips Respironics, a medical device conglomerate.
The Model 515B or 515C pulse oximeters provide continuous measurement, display, and alerts for the patient’s pulse rate and oxygen saturation. Pulse rate is measured in beats per minute, while oxygen saturation is measured as a percentage. The oxygen saturated blood absorbs different amounts of light compared to unsaturated blood, so the amount of light absorbed by the patient’s blood is used to calculate oxygen saturation. Pulse rate and oxygen saturation values are updated once per second. On the 515B model, the presence of a pulse is indicated by a bar graph display and an audible “beep.” The 515C model also includes a plethysmogram graphic display.
These models can be powered from AC Mains or from rechargeable internal batteries. They are designed to be used in conjunction with SuperBright sensors, which can be identified by an 87xx series part number such as 8776.
The 515B/C pulse oximeters include the name “NOVAMETRIX MEDICAL SYSTEMS INC.” printed in capital letters in the upper right-hand corner of the monitors’ front face. The model number is printed near the top center of the device’s front panel.
Technical Specifications
Pulse Oximeter
Principle of Operation: Red/Infrared absorption
SpO2 (Oxygen Saturation):
- Range: 0-100%
- Accuracy: (for 1 standard deviation or 68% of sample distribution) ± 2% SpO2 (for 80-100% SpO2) unspecified for 0-79%
- Display Resolution: 1%
- Averaging: 8 seconds
- Audio: Pitch of pulse tone varies with SpO2 value
Pulse Rate:
- Range: 30-250 beats per minute (bpm)
- Accuracy: (1 standard deviation), ± 1% of full scale
- Display Resolution, 1 bpm
- Averaging time: 8 seconds
Sensors:
- Reusable Y-Sensor™ (can be sterilized and used with all patient populations) and reusable adult finger sensor
Plethysmogram (Model 515C only):
- Pulsatile waveform
General Specifications
Alerts:
- Limits: Automatic and adjustable limits for SpO2 and Pulse Rate
- Audio: Adjustable volume, 2 min. silence or OFF (LED indicators)
- Visual: Flashing numerics upon violated limit(s) & red “Alert Bar” with limit (high or low) violation indicator
- Messages: Sensor disconnected, sensor off patient, low signal, insufficient light, high ambient light, pulse out of range, sensor faulty, monitor faulty.
Display:
- Numerics: 7-Segment LED’s
- Plethysmogram (Model 515C): Liquid crystal graphic module, 2.4”W X 1.3”H
Physical:
- Operating Environment:
- 10-40 °C (50-104 °F)
- 0-90% relative humidity (non-condensing)
- Weight: approximately 6 lbs. (2.72 kg)
- Dimensions:
- Height, 3.3 inches (8.38 cm)
- Width, 9 inches (22.86 cm)
- Depth, 8 inches (20.32 cm)
Electrical:
- Power: 100-120/220-240 VAC ± 10%, 50-60 Hz, 30VA
- Fuse Rating:
- U.S. specification: 0.5 A, 250 V, Slo-Blo
- European specification: T 250 mA/250 V (x2)
Battery: Sealed lead acid gel cell, 8 hr. life, 12 hr. recharge.
- Indicators for battery charging, battery operation, low battery, and extremely low battery.
Additional Information
Novametrix Model 515B/C User Manual